To make its services more inclusive, Uber launched Uber Assist in more than 40 cities across the globe.
About Uber Assist
Uber Assist is Uber’s ride-sharing service catering to riders with different accessibility needs that require additional assistance. It allows specially-abled riders to leverage on-demand ride-hailing facilities. The target group of the offering includes pregnant women, senior citizens, injured or sick individuals, and visually-impaired people.
The drivers for this particular fleet undergo the Australian Network on Disability online course to become an Assist drive-partner. So, rest assured, these drivers are certified to offer assistance to riders who may need extra help. Also, the vehicles in the fleet include standard sedans (just like UberX). UberX is Uber’s economic riding option that allows a party of up to 4 passengers.
What special provisions will the trip offer to help differently-abled riders?
Uber Assist has a fleet of drivers that are trained and certified to offer adequate help to riders with special mobility needs. Like all other riding alternatives, it is a private on-demand service and offers an advance booking feature.
Moreover, every vehicle in this specific fleet has enough space to accommodate mobility equipment, such as a collapsible scooter or wheelchair. Your driver will help you to load and unload the assistive device.
How to reserve an Assist ride?
The procedure to request an Uber Assist trip is similar to the regular riding alternatives. You can follow the given steps to book an Assist ride:
- Go to your Uber app.
- Enter your destination location and confirm your pick-up location as well.
- You can select “Assist” from the list. You should note that sometimes, you will need a promo code to book the ride.
- Next, add a payment method of your choice, including Uber Cash.
- Once your ride is confirmed by the driver, you will be able to monitor their arrival on the application map.
A limited number of drivers in the fleet and the limitation of service operations to select cities make the availability of Assist rides highly variable
Does this trip alternative cost more than a standard Uber ride?
No. Even though Uber Assist provides its riders with extra help during the trip, the trip fares remain the same as UberX. However, its availability may be limited to certain locations only. To know if it is available in your particular city, you can visit the company’s website. Or else, you can simply check its availability from the list of ride options while booking a trip.
Does the trip allow assistance animals?
Yes. Legal obligations bind drivers of the Assist fleet to allow assistance animals such as a guide dog on the trip. Uber has service animal and anti-discrimination policies in place to make your trip as safe and accommodating as possible. The Uber Assist program is a significant step towards making safe mobility accessible to people with impaired or faulty vision and people with other physical limitations. Furthermore, with cashless payments via Uber Cash and additional discounts and offers via the Uber One pass, riders can enjoy affordable rides like never before.