Have you ever needed to go somewhere but didn't have a ride? Or did you just not feel like driving yourself? Odds are you either stayed put, got a ride with someone else or used an alternative form of transportation. Nowadays, Uber and Lyft are popular ways to get around either when you don't have any other way to or having someone else drive would be more convenient. Whatever your reason, it's important to remember that your driver's human, too, and deserves to be respected just like you do. This may seem like common sense, but you wouldn't believe some of the stories I've heard from my drivers. To make sure you're not remembered as one of their more horrific experiences, follow these simple tips.
1. Engage in conversation
Now, some drivers might be quiet or be having a bad day, so use your best judgment. And don't try to make conversation happen. Find something to compliment them on or to pique their interest. I've sparked a conversation with a driver after I realized his GPS voice was Madea and with another driver, after mentioning that I liked the music he was playing (turns out he was playing a Brazilian radio station). People have all kinds of interesting stories to share, but you'll never learn them if you don't talk to them.
2. Network
Again, this comes with conversation. If you know you could help your driver with their work or vice versa, get their contact info and work out the details. You never know what it could lead to.
3. Save the hot and heavy stuff for the back seat of your vehicle
Pretty sure your driver can do without moaning and lip-smacking coming from the backseat. Whatever heat you're feeling now can always be rekindled later.
4. Mind their space
Don't put your feet up on the back of their chair or crowd them in any way. One, they need to stay focused on driving, and two, it's just common courtesy. If you're not sure if they'd be cool with you stretching out, ask. Some are more chill than others, but it's still your ride. Relax and get comfy. Just do so within reason.
5. Don't dirty their vehicle
How would you feel if someone left trash in your car or spilled something on your backseat? You'd be upset, right? So's your driver when that happens. If you bring food or anything with you, just make sure you clean up after yourself.
6. Respect their opinions
Only bringing this up since politics has become a major topic of conversation during some of my rides. If touchy subjects do come up, either tactfully evade if you'd rather avoid them or agree to disagree if you and your driver share different points of view. If they decide to criticize or belittle you, don't respond in kind. But be sure to give them a one-star rating so you don't have to ride with them again and report their behavior, as well (especially if they're using hate speech or anything like that).
7. Tip them if you enjoyed their ride
They're trying to make a living just like you. Some drivers even do this full time. Of course, tips aren't required, but they're a nice gesture.
8. Get their number/social media info
Let me clarify: don't be creepy or harassing with this. Some drivers may offer to add them on social media or just give you their number in case you need anything. If they do, consider taking it, especially if you enjoyed their ride. You don't have to if you're not comfortable, but it could come in handy later.
