As gas prices rise, Americans are feeling the pinch at the pump, with rideshare drivers being especially hit hard.
“I’m starting to see it get worse, like every two weeks it seems like it’s getting worse,” one driver stated.
On Tuesday, like other days, they waited one by one for a ride request in a lot outside of O’Hare International Airport. The nationwide average cost of a gallon of gas has climbed to $4.48, according to AAA, while the average in Cook County is higher at $5.15 a gallon.
It’s the surge that is cutting into drivers’ bottom line.
Many drivers said they now have to work 10 to 12 hours a day to earn what they used to make in eight hours.
While they wait for prices to drop, some drivers said they hope the rideshare companies will step in and do more.
“My biggest hope is that Uber is going to keep less of the percentage,” one driver said.
Uber told NBC Chicago they are extending their fuel relief program for at least another months as nearly everyone keeps a close eye on the pump. The company said, in part, “To help mitigate the exceptional and rapid price increases that drivers have been seeing at the pump, we are significantly expanding the fuel discounts and offers available to Uber drivers and couriers in the U.S. through May 26, 2026.”
Uber has partnered with Shell and the Upside app. By using both, drivers can save up to $1.44 per gallon.
Still with the current price for fuel, it has some drivers considering other jobs to get by.
“I’m looking to do something else it’s like ok let me start doing something else where gas won’t be a factor,” one driver stated.
