Lyft vs Uber: What’s the Difference Between the Ridesharing Giants?

Published on: 25 December 2018 Last Updated on: 02 March 2020
lyft vs uber

Are you in need of a ride? Instead of calling a random taxi, why not call an Uber? You need to know some basics on lyft vs uber.

Everyone knows Uber nowadays. Ridesharing grew from being a dream to a tangible service. 30% of people in the United States used ridesharing apps to book rides to reach places.

This time, there are two companies in a clash on who comes on top. Should you go with Lyft vs. Uber? Which one offers better service or lower prices?

Here is the difference between Lyft and Uber(or lyft vs uber):

1. Lyft vs Uber: The Overview:

In case you are unaware of what these two are, Uber and Lyft are companies that brought about the ridesharing service into the market. They both offer means of providing rides for the public and they both use smartphones as the primary mode of access.

First, the customer hails a ride through the use of a phone app. Customers use the app to set up their current location as the starting point and then their destination.

Nearby drivers licensed with the app can then see the new customer. It will then be a matter of time until one driver decides to agree and pick up the rider. This makes the process of getting a means of transport easier no matter where you are or what time it’s.

For riders, you simply need the app. If you want to learn how to join as Lyft or Uber drivers, you need to secure a CPC certification first.

Thinking between Lyft vs. Uber? Not sure of the benefits of each or how much they cost? Let’s start the comparison now and see which company is better.

2. Pricing:

First, let’s look at the Uber vs Lyft price comparison. Despite the similarity in services, they charge the customers with different rates and fare calculations.

For Uber, you simply add the base fare price, the cost per minute, and the distance of your ride. The final charge also includes the cost for the vehicle class you chose and the demand for rideshares in your location.

During times where the demand is at the peak, Uber implements “surge pricing.” This adds a multiplier to the ride price. While the ride prices vary due to these factors, the app allows customers to estimate their fares ahead of time.

Lyft starts on a similar foothold. It calculates the fare according to the distance, the time elapsed, location, vehicle class, and the base fare. Like Uber, Lyft adds in a “prime time” charge when you hail a ride during peak hours.

The base fare is where the discrepancies fall in. Uber is more affordable when compared to Lyft. That said, Lyft can show the exact amount customers will pay. Uber only shows an estimated amount.

For this, Lyft becomes the preferred choice for ridesharing during peak hours. This is due to having a cheaper offer with their prices compared to Uber.

3. Technology and Smartphone Apps:

Smartphone Apps

 

Both Lyft and Uber(lyft vs uber) are using similar smartphone apps when it comes to the purpose of booking rides. The apps pick up the addresses of the trip end-points, track the vehicle via GPS, provide shorter routes during navigation, and it also accepts electronic payment and ratings.

Uber took about two years to develop its smartphone app. While Lyft developed theirs after the initial company launch.

Uber manages to provide a real-time update of cost. This is a helpful feature in noting the traffic congestion and wait time, especially when these are factors that lead to higher trip costs. In comparison, Lyft is rather subtle and a bit secretive about peak hour pricing.

However, when it comes to the phones used for work, Uber drivers end incurring a $10 weekly cost to use the pre-supplied phones. Lyft, on the other hand, allows you to load the app on a personal phone to do the work.

4. Vehicles in Use:

The vehicle class is one aspect that can shape your experience when taking a ride from any of these two companies. However, it boils down on the options that they provide.

For Lyft, they have a default option where you have an everyday sedan with room for four passengers. Then there is Lyft Line where riders share the same rides if they’re on the same route.

You also have Lift Plus, a step up to the regular Lyft as it has room for six passengers. If you’re looking for a luxury ride then you can avail of Lyft Premier.

For Uber, there are various options available as well.

UberPOOL is a carpool service for multiple passengers. UberX is a budget option that provides a vehicle with room for up to four passengers. UberXL steps this up by using an SUV with seating that can fit up to six people.

Then there’s UberSELECT, offering a four-door luxury sedan with seating for 4 passengers. UberBLACK is the main service that Uber offers, featuring high-end luxury vehicles with four-passenger seating. UberSUV, the most expensive offering so far, has a high-end SUV with a six-passenger seating.

Uber leans towards businesspeople. Thus, drivers are more professional and concise. And they are there to make sure you reach your destination.

Lyft drivers are more open to conversation. They may also have a creative approach to the ride, making it livelier.

Depending on the feel that you want for the trip, this should give you a clear answer. For a professional drive, Uber is a great choice. If you want something a bit more fun and casual, Lyft is perfect.

5. Coverage Areas:

Now, with areas of availability, there is a clear distinction between the two. Lyft is available in 46 states within the US and Canada. Despite the number, the company is on aggressive expansion. So this might change sometime soon.

Meanwhile, Uber is available in 58 countries and 300 cities worldwide. It shows the scope of how huge Uber is, compared to Lyft, Uber having the upper hand.

Get Started with Ridesharing Today!

Choosing between Lyft vs Uber comes down to budget and preference.

When it comes to picking which one is better, both sides show their strengths and weaknesses. It boils down to the feel of the trip as you ride, the costs, and even the available vehicles. Whichever you choose, it’s clear that both companies have started a trend that will continue for years to come. Therefore, now you know the basics on lyft vs uber.

Did you find this post useful?

We have several posts covering a wide range of topics that you can check out. You can start by checking this one out on the top apps that can help you manage your finances.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Tire Rotation

Answering 4 Common Questions About Tire Rotation: Is Yours Due Soon?

Just about every driver on the road realizes how important it is to provide routine maintenance like checking fluids and changing oil and filters. Surprisingly few of them consider how important it is to maintain their vehicles' tires, though. Just like oil changes protect the vehicle's engine and decrease costs of ownership over time, tire rotation protects the vehicle's tires, so it's important that drivers understand what tire rotations are and what schedule to follow. Read on to find answers to four frequently asked questions to get the search for knowledge started off on the right foot. Answering 4 Common Questions About Tire Rotation: Why Are Tire Rotations Necessary? Tires aren't cheap, but periodic tire rotations can help to extend the lifespan of tires by ensuring they all wear evenly, helping drivers make the most of their investments. Even tire wear also increases gas mileage and decreases the chances of a blowout. Along with other essential tire services, rotations can not only extend the lifespan of the car's tires but also help prevent potential safety risks on the road. How Often Do Tires Need to Be Rotated? There's actually no clear answer to this question. Some vehicles and tires need more frequent maintenance and rotation than others. For example, all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles need more frequent tire rotations because uneven wear can throw off the entire driving system. Driving habits also impact how often tires need to be changed. Aggressive drivers or those who drive long distances every day typically require rotations more often. The type and brand of the tire can also impact how often drivers need a rotation. New tires that are still under warranty typically need to be rotated by a professional at prescribed intervals to avoid voiding the warranty. Some warranties require rotations as frequently as every 4,000 miles, so make sure to check the manufacturer's specifications. For most drivers, getting the tires rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles is a good rule of thumb. Get the tires rotated with each oil change to avoid missing an appointment and creating uneven wear patterns. Can Drivers Rotate Their Own Tires? Tire rotations require specialized tools, including multiple jack stands, floor jacks, and a torque wrench. Unless drivers have everything needed to remove multiple tires safely and replace them securely, it's never a good idea to attempt a DIY tire rotation. Failing to get documentation from an automotive or tire shop can also void the warranty on new tires. Feel like the quote on a tire rotation offered by the dealership is excessively high? The best solution is to head to an independent shop, not to attempt a home rotation. Some shops perform rotations as part of other routine maintenance services, while others include inspections at no additional cost, so it's worth the money. What About the Spare? Most vehicles' spare tires are smaller than ordinary tires. Known as "donuts," these tires should only be used in emergencies. Unless the vehicle has a full-sized spare, it should never be included in the tire rotation. The Bottom Line Tire rotations are essential for prolonging the lifespan of tires and vehicles. This affordable form of automotive maintenance is a necessity, not a luxury, so don't put it off. If it's been a while since the last tire rotation, schedule an appointment with a local tire shop as soon as possible. Read Also: Car Insurance For Electric Vehicles Explained 5 Signs Your Car Needs a Tune Up

READ MOREDetails
car-

Will Self-Driving Cars Replace Human Error?

The public is understandably skeptical when it comes to the introduction of new technologies. This has been a constant in virtually every innovation since the dawn of civilization. People were skeptical about the railroads when they first became a staple of American life in the 1830s. People were skeptical about aviation when it became a major part of travel in the early part of the 20th century. The automobile itself was viewed with a healthy dose of scorn and hesitation when it first drove onto the scene. Today, we find ourselves in a similar situation with regard to the emergence of self-driving vehicles. Just like with these other technologies, some of our skepticism is caused by the novelty of the technology and our unfamiliarity with it. However, just as it was with the transportation modes listed above, many of our reservations are well-founded and stem from shortcomings that the technology has yet to overcome. Still, the bigger question that we find ourselves asking is:  Will we be safer in self-driving vehicles than we would be in vehicles that have a human driver? Human Error Causes Vehicle Crashes The vast majority of crashes on our roads are caused by human error. Some estimates put this figure at around 90 percent. We experience this firsthand every single day on our roads. Consider how many crashes are caused by reckless driving, distraction, fatigue, and intoxication. In each of these cases, it is a person’s mistake that leads to a vehicle crash. People are far from perfect, and we make mistakes regularly. When these mistakes occur on our roads, the consequences can be devastating. One mistake made at 55 miles per hour can cause fatalities, serious injuries and incredible amounts of property damage. In that sense, the less we can be subject to lapses in judgment or negligent driving, the safer we will be. How Do Self-Driving Cars Stack Up Against People? Thus far, there is not enough information available to make a completely accurate comparison of automated vehicles and human drivers. Think about how many miles people have driven since the launch of the automobile and how many miles have been traveled by self-driving vehicles. This disparity leaves us with an incomplete picture. However, self-driving automobiles have been around long enough for us to get a clearer idea of how safe these vehicles could be and what dangers they could present if manufacturers don’t do their due diligence. Last year, Google touted the fact that its self-driving vehicles had traveled well over a million miles and been involved in only 17 crashes, all but one of which were found to be caused by another driver’s error. Meanwhile, Tesla, another company that has a big stake in the self-driving automobile industry, has come under fire from critics about its aggressive implementation of automated technology after the death of a driver in Florida in May of 2016. In September, the New York Times reported a similar incident involving a Tesla automobile that occurred in China earlier this year. The criticism from safety advocates is largely over the company’s willingness to make available technology that has not been thoroughly tested. While these were reportedly the first driver deaths in over 130 million miles of travel, it still raises a debate about the degree to which automation will be deemed safe for drivers. Concerns About Semi-Autonomous Vehicles Part of the skepticism about automated technology stems from automobiles that will be only partially operated by a vehicle and handed over to a human driver in case of emergency. In certain types of automated vehicles, such as vehicles equipped with Tesla’s Autopilot function, drivers must still be aware enough to take over driving duties in certain situations. This might prove to be a difficult task for drivers, and it could even require a certain level of proficiency or training on the part of a vehicle's operator. It should also be noted that we already have some forms of automation in many of our vehicles. Automated braking has been used in vehicles for several years and has likely helped reduce the occurrence of many crashes. There is great promise for more automation, but there are still many unanswered questions. Accountability Will Always Be a Central Issue Just as it is in today’s human-operated vehicles, crashes in tomorrow’s self-driving cars will stem from some sort of error. Today, it is usually the drivers who are held accountable for their mistakes, but as self-driving automobiles become a bigger presence on our roads, that accountability will be shifted to other entities. Rather than human error is to blame, it might be the case that a particular crash will be deemed to be the fault of a vehicle manufacturer, or a software manufacturer. For the safety of all drivers, accountability will be a very important issue, one that will need to be fought for and pursued by the institutions providing oversight and regulation, and by drivers and citizens themselves. The Self-Driving Revolution is Beginning People might be reluctant to embrace self-driving technology, but it will be thrust upon them whether they are ready for it or not. In Pittsburgh, for example, Uber has launched self-driving vehicles in a pilot program. Uber’s chief rival in the ridesharing world, Lyft, has said that our roads will be filled with automated vehicles in five years, and the company is taking its own steps toward releasing self-driving cars. Read also: How To Shop For A Car With Your Teen Driver? Several companies are locked in a fight to be first when it comes to self-driving vehicles. This competition will no doubt lead to the rapid advancement of the technology. As consumers, we have to hope that the release of the technology is not hasty and that road safety is the top priority. The Future of Our Roads People are debating when, and not if, self-driving vehicles will become the norm. It’s only a matter of time before more vehicles will be completely or at least mostly operated by automated systems. We know from the history of transportation technology that we can expect certain things. We can expect resistance, adoption, innovation, and missteps in the implementation of the technology. We can also expect that one day soon we will be riding in, or sharing our roads with, self-driving cars. The Law Offices of James C. DeZao is a personal injury law firm in New Jersey. Contact them by visiting their website or calling them at (973) 808-8900. Read More: 5 Ways To Avoid The Rip Off While Buying A Used Car Invest In A New Car, Without A Financial Liabilit Turn The Tables For Helpless Children With Car Donation In New Jersey Fred Loya Insurance Company

READ MOREDetails
Safest Motorcycle Equipment

The Safest Motorcycle Equipment: Gear For Every Rider

Riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom and adventure, but it also comes with inherent risks. As a motorcyclist, your safety should be a top priority every time you hit the road. While honing your riding skills and practicing defensive driving techniques are crucial, investing in the right motorcycle equipment can provide an additional layer of protection in the event of an accident. In this blog post, we'll explore the safest motorcycle equipment that every rider should consider wearing to stay safe on the road. Helmet A high-quality helmet is the single most important piece of safety equipment for any motorcyclist. In the event of a crash, a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and traumatic brain injuries. When choosing a helmet, opt for one that meets or exceeds safety standards, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) or Snell certification. Look for features such as a sturdy outer shell, impact-absorbing liner, comfortable padding, and a secure chin strap. Additionally, make sure the helmet fits snugly and securely on your head to provide maximum protection. Protective Riding Gear In addition to a helmet, wearing protective riding gear can help safeguard your body from injuries in the event of a crash or slide. Invest in a durable motorcycle jacket made from abrasion-resistant materials such as leather or textile, with built-in armor in critical areas like the shoulders, elbows, and spine. Pair the jacket with armored riding pants or jeans, which offer added protection for your legs and hips. Don't forget to wear sturdy motorcycle gloves to protect your hands and wrists from abrasion and impact injuries. Riding Boots Proper footwear is essential for maintaining control of your motorcycle and protecting your feet and ankles in the event of a crash. Choose motorcycle-specific riding boots with reinforced soles, ankle support, and impact protection. Look for boots made from durable materials such as leather or synthetic textiles, with non-slip soles for optimal grip on foot pegs and pavement. Avoid wearing sneakers or other casual shoes, which offer little to no protection in the event of an accident. Eye Protection Protecting your eyes from wind, debris, and insects is essential for maintaining visibility and safety while riding. Invest in a good pair of motorcycle goggles or a full-face helmet with a built-in visor or face shield. Look for eye protection with anti-fog and UV-resistant coatings for optimal clarity and comfort in various riding conditions. Additionally, consider carrying a spare visor or anti-fog treatment for long rides or inclement weather to ensure clear vision at all times. Reflective Gear The Cherry Hill motorcycle accident attorneys make it clear that visibility is crucial for staying safe on the road, especially when riding at night or in low-light conditions. Incorporating reflective gear into your riding ensemble can help increase your visibility to other motorists and reduce the risk of accidents. Wear a reflective vest or jacket with reflective strips, or add reflective tape to your helmet, jacket, and motorcycle to enhance visibility from all angles. Consider investing in reflective decals or accessories for your motorcycle, such as wheel stripes or side reflectors, to improve visibility even further. Motorcycle Armor For riders who engage in off-road or high-speed riding, motorcycle armor provides an extra layer of protection against impacts and abrasions. Motorcycle armor typically consists of hard plastic or composite panels strategically placed on key areas of the body, such as the chest, back, shoulders, elbows, and knees. Integrated into a compatible motorcycle jacket or pants, armor enhances protection without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Look for CE-certified armor for optimal impact resistance and shock absorption. Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, but it's essential to prioritize safety every time you hit the road. Investing in the safest motorcycle equipment is crucial for protecting yourself from potential injuries in the event of an accident. By wearing the right gear and practicing safe riding habits, you can enjoy the thrill of motorcycling while minimizing the risks associated with this exhilarating mode of transportation. High Visibility Vest Reflective motorcycle vests with high visibility are extremely important in case you are riding during the night or in darker areas. They are cost-effective and provide the necessary safety for your adventure rides. Road crews and highway workers wear them for safety reasons. Similarly, you, too, must utilize this safety tool to maximize visibility. These vests are available in many different materials. They offer reflective and high-visibility colors to help alleviate safety concerns. So if you do not have one, you must get one. A high-visibility vest is a great option for riding in high-traffic as well as high-density population areas. These vests will save you from dangerous situations. You may want to stay comfortable, but safety is key. Protective and preventive motorcycle safety gears keep you safe while you take on the challenges on the road. They do not let safety become an obstacle in the path to your limitless thrill. Earplugs One of the most important items of safety gear for motorcycle riders is earplugs. You may not be riding a throaty cruiser with its V-twin engine. Bikes, however, are noisy. If you add traffic and wind noise to the already loud party, ear fatigue is not too far away. The excessive exposure to this high-decibel noise will start to set in for sure. In order to protect your hearing, use industrial use foam plugs to keep your ears safe. Some of them are inexpensive, but a higher-quality plug will offer a better fit as well as better attenuation. It will be a far better choice to invest in a set of custom-made plugs. Our ears are unique, similar to fingerprints. There are many motorcycle companies that offer earplugs that are designed especially for motorcycle riding. Even audiologists can make you a custom-fitted pair within a week or two. Wrapping Up It is crucial to wear safety gear amid the right clothing when riding a bike. You could be riding a moped or even a high-performance bike. As serious as crashing on a bike sounds, the right equipment will help keep you ready for all situations. There are safety helmets and eye protection to consider. Visors and goggles will keep your eyes from getting injured and increase on-road visibility. Safe riding is not just a personal choice, it is also a legal requirement to make sure that you get the right protection while on the road. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Things to Consider Before Buying Your First Motorcycle Dos and Don’ts When You’re Involved in a Motorcycle Accident 8 Useful Tips to Help You Prepare For Your First Motorcycle Track Day

READ MOREDetails