Why Uber wait times may be getting longer around D.C.
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Illustration: Rebecca Zisser/Axios
You're not alone: Uber wait times recently feel longer in the D.C. area and can be more expensive.
Why it matters: Rideshares are a popular, efficient — and pre-pandemic, pretty wallet-friendly — way to navigate the city, and any change to the norm will cause a stir.
State of play: A myriad of factors are causing delays with Uber, drivers tell NBC4, including some who say they prefer shorter pickup distances — which could lead to fewer drivers in less densely populated and lower demand areas.
- Nonetheless, drivers are paid to travel once they accept a ride, no matter the length.
The big picture: There are also potentially fewer drivers on the road due to safety concerns, especially at certain times.
- Tragic crimes against rideshare and delivery workers have caused fear in the driver community, including a delivery driver who was shot and carjacked last year, and another who recently died after being struck by a stolen car.
Yes, but: Uber representatives tell Axios the longer wait times are partly seasonal, and that the number of drivers on the road ebbs and flows.
What they're saying: "There are times — especially when there are large events or warm weather days — when we will see increased demand," an Uber spokesperson tells Axios. "While this means that drivers are busier and earning more, we recognize that fluctuation in wait times can be frustrating for some riders."
- Busier times can also lead to surge pricing — so you may want to Metro to that summer Friday happy hour.
Meanwhile, Uber keeps rolling out more options to get butts in seats quicker. Last year they launched a partnership with D.C. taxis so customers can request cabs. They've also expanded UberX Share. And don't forget about the occasional party bus.
The intrigue: Lyft tells Axios they've seen the opposite. As of the last week of April, Lyft saw a decrease in driver ETAs in the D.C. area and standard upfront rider fares compared to last year, a spokesperson says.