Ridesharing has exploded in popularity in recent years. With lots of people choosing to order an Uber or Lyft to their destinations, more and more drivers are finding ridesharing to be a lucrative and satisfying way to spend their time. To be a successful rideshare driver, it’s important to have the details of your arrangement with the company in order. This includes knowing who is responsible for which costs, securing rideshare insurance in Illinois and other states, and having a full view of the perks available to you as a driver.
How Tolls Work for Lyft Drivers
Riders are responsible for the cost of tolls during their ride. The driver pays tolls upfront for the active ride, using their cash or an electronic toll collection system such as an I-Pass or E-ZPass. At the end of the ride, the total will be reimbursed to the driver through the Lyft app. There are some exceptions:
- HOV Lanes
High-Occupancy Vehicle lanes, also known as a carpool lane, will not be covered by the Lyft passenger as this is an optional toll. - Express Lanes
Because taking an express lane is not necessary to arrive at the passenger’s destination, these tolls are considered the driver’s expense. - Past-Due Payments
Lyft does not cover any changes from toll payments that are in a state of collection. Only the driver is responsible for the cost of late payments, tags, and administrative fees.
It’s easy to find the toll information calculated for your ride in your ride history within the Driver Dashboard. The toll amount paid is not subject to any fees by Lyft so that the driver is fully reimbursed. Lyft’s terms of service do not permit the passenger to pay for tolls with cash.
Other Fees Lyft Passengers Cover
In addition to fees for tolls, passengers are required to cover:
- Pickup and drop-off fees at airports
- Venue fees (the costs of parking)
- Cancellation or no-show fees
- Sales taxes associated with the ride
- Lyft’s service fee
How Tolls Work for Uber Drivers
The rules regarding tolls are much the same between both companies. When it comes to driving for Uber, the rider is also responsible for the full cost of tolls incurred during their ride. The driver will use their own cash or electronic toll system (I-Pass transponders) during the ride, and at the end the Uber app will add this amount to the rider’s final total.
How Are Toll Reimbursements Calculated by Uber?
The Uber application draws on the current toll rates set by the area’s local government. Working in coordination with the mapping function, the Uber Driver App is able to accurately calculate the tolls for your ride. Uber’s service fee is not applicable to tolls.
What Tolls are Not Included?
Uber will not charge passengers for optional tolls, such as express lanes or carpool (HOV) lanes. Uber has published a full list of return tolls which qualify for reimbursement; look for your local tolls here.
Where Can I Review the Calculated Total?
It’s easy to find toll information for your recent rides in the Uber Driver App as well as on your weekly pay statement. If you believe your toll was missed or miscalculated, you can request a review. For more information on requesting a review, visit Uber’s help section.
Can Riders Pay for Tolls on Uber with Cash?
Cash payments for tolls are against Uber’s Terms of Service. Because passengers will be automatically charged for tolls incurred during their ride, there is no reason to ask for or accept an alternative payment.
How Does Uber Cover Parking and Airport Fees?
Using the same geographic information, Uber is able to calculate fees when a rider requests that the driver enter a parking venue. Certain airports also charge fees to rideshare drivers for stalling a certain amount of time, which can also be calculated on the app.
Other Advantages to Becoming a Rideshare Driver
Many passengers prefer calling an Uber or Lyft for the overwhelming convenience and reliability compared to other methods of transport. On the drivers’ side, ridesharing is appealing for many reasons:
- You’re your own boss
While many thrive in a traditional work setting, self-employment can be highly rewarding and satisfying for certain lifestyles and personalities. - Your schedule is fully flexible
There’s no reason not to take on ridesharing part-time! On both Lyft and Uber, you can drive up to 12 hours a day—just pick your favorite. - Surge pricing and partner discounts
Both companies, along with other rideshare apps, have built-in incentives and perks. Familiarizing yourself with toll policy is just the first step!
Rideshare Insurance in Illinois
If you’re considering becoming a part or full-time driver for Lyft or Uber, it’s important to explore your options for insuring your vehicle. Accurate Auto Insurance provides affordable auto insurance to help keep drivers safe and compliant with local laws. We work with customers struggling to overcome bad credit, license suspensions, and more. Our friendly and helpful staff can answer any questions you may have, contact us today!
