Merseyside Uber driver issues verdict as cash trip trials begin
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/li ... t-28214080
A Merseyside Uber driver has said there are "mixed opinions" on passengers using cash to pay for trips.
As it currently stands, users register a bank card through the Uber app and payments are taken electronically once you have reached your preferred destination. However, in a trial taking place in Birmingham, users have been given the option to pay using cash instead.
Drivers can opt-out of the trial on their app. Despite this, and the fact that it is only taking place in one city, there has been some speculation it could be rolled out nationwide.
Viktoras Prakopovas, a 38 year-old Uber driver from Kirkby, admitted drivers were divided on whether cash payments should be expanded. Speaking to the ECHO, Mr Prakopovas said: “Yes, it's mixed opinions. Some prefer probably working with only card payments [as it] gives a little bit of safety, especially at night time.
“But again, they have an option to opt out. It will leave more work for those taking cash.”
He added that the introduction of cash payments could attract a new type of customer to the app. Mr Prakopovas said: “Some people, especially older people, I would say they're not very good at using apps. Maybe they would prefer cash trips.
“And I don't mind taking cash. It's more convenient for the customers.
“They have an option to pay either card or cash. And for the drivers, we have an option to opt out from cash payments.
“So again, we have a choice. But for those who don't mind taking cash, I think it's good. Probably more customers would move from local companies to Uber for that reason, so they can pay cash.”
Mr Prakopovas, who became a taxi driver for the first time when he joined Uber last April because it offered flexible hours, said the cost of living crisis has made it harder for drivers. He said: “I used to work days, making a living from that.
“Now I have to move to evenings and nights, when it's more busy, when there's less buses running. So it's becoming more and more challenging.”
It was announced earlier this week that the night bus between Liverpool and Wirral would return on a trial basis. Mr Prakopovas claimed the return of the night bus between Liverpool and Wirral offered a further challenge to drivers, but was ultimately pleased for those who will use the service instead of getting a taxi.
“Again, it's more convenient for the customers, for the passengers. They have a choice to take a bus or to take a taxi.
“Some people prefer a bus. Some just prefer to have more comfort and call a taxi. Probably it will take some passengers from us to the buses.
“But it's hard to please everyone. It's more convenient for the residents, definitely.
On the trial of cash payments, an Uber spokesperson said: “At Uber, we want to help as many people as possible move safely, which is why we are trialling a pilot in Birmingham, where riders can pay for their trip with cash. Drivers are under no obligation to take cash trips and can easily opt-out via their Driver app.”
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