According to research released in May from UCLA’s Institute for Research on Labor and Employment, over half of Uber and Lyft drivers in Los Angeles drive full time. Unfortunately, many Uber and Lyft drivers also struggle to pay for expenses such as gas, insurance and vehicle maintenance costs. About a third of the drivers either purchased or leased their car specifically to drive for the companies and continue driving to pay off those loans. Lucero Herrera, a coauthor of the report, stated,
We knew from seeing the news coverage that conditions for Uber and Lyft drivers were bad, but it was shocking to see how bad it was. We want to lift the voice of the drivers and spur a conversation so we can work together to improve this industry.
About half of Uber and Lyft drivers surveyed claimed that it’s their only job, and roughly the same percentage said they work over 35 hours a week and struggle to pay for things such as gas, insurance and car maintenance costs. Apparently, many said they drive extra hours, borrow money, or use a credit card to pay those expenses. Around two-thirds of respondents said driving for Uber or Lyft was their main source of income. Herrera hopes that the report will raise awareness among drivers, regulators, and members of the public so they can start talking about ways to protect drivers and improve working conditions. We will have to wait and see if the report influences any changes in how Uber and Lyft operate their businesses.
