Driver shortage blamed on higher ride-share fares
Jordan Bowen reporting on rising ride-share fares
TAMPA, Fla. - If you’ve used Uber or Lyft lately, you may have noticed fares are much higher than normal. Both companies says it’s partly because of a driver shortage and a sudden increase in demand. With more people becoming vaccinated, the demand for ride-sharing has seen a surge, but the supply of drivers is slow to return.
Prior to the pandemic, a trip from Tampa to St. Pete depending on the day and time might cost around $30. When FOX 13 checked Tuesday afternoon, fares on Uber were around $67. Lyft s fare for a priority pick-up was listed at more $130.