Snow Storm Leads To Uptick In Uber Rides
By Edward Cardenas
SOUTHFIELD (CBS Detroit) - The cold and snowy weather has led to increase in business for Uber, the app-based on-demand ride service.
Michael White, general manager for Uber Michigan, said the service has been "growing like crazy in southeastern Michigan," and with the winter weather, people used the service to get to work, schools and events around town.
"With the cold weather we have definitely seen an uptick the demand around the state," said White, who stated that customers are using Uber to supplement driving or other public transportation.
Uber drivers are not immune from the weather, and at times also have delays. White said customers can follow the progress of the driver on the Uber smart phone app, and contact the driver.
"When the weather gets bad, it may take a little bit longer for the driver to come," he stated.
In addition to serving Metro Detroit, Uber operates in Ann Arbor, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Flint.
"We have seen a really impressive acceptance in all these different regions for Uber," White said. "I think there is an opportunity to solve a transportation problem."
