On-demand and ride-sharing apps have become a common thing in recent years.  According to statistics, approximately one-third of Canadians use ride-share apps such as Uber.  As of 2018, there were close to one million ride-share app drivers in the country.

Before on-demand and ride-share apps came along, riders would either call a central dispatch for tax service or wave down taxis on the streets. Although conventional cabs are still being used by a significant number of people in suburban areas of Canada, ride-sharing apps tend to dominate population-dense cities such as Montreal.

Companies such as Uber market themselves as an easy and affordable way of moving from one point to the other. They also claim to offer convenience, safety, peace of mind, and reliability.

While nobody can dispute the pros of ride-share apps, there is the dark side that these companies never want to talk about. In this post, we assess whether the impersonal service provided by on-demand ride-sharing apps is worth the cost.

What Makes People Choose Ride-Share Apps?

As mentioned above, there are some genuine pros of using ride-share apps. Their services are easily accessible, and riders enjoy the convenience of being able to make cashless payments.

Their pricing is also competitive compared to traditional taxis and as a passenger; you get to enjoy a wide range of flexible options depending on your budget.  Clients can also rate their drivers which help to weed out rogue and bad-mannered drivers.

Before you board an Uber, you read through the comments of other customers who have been driven by the same driver and know what to expect. You can also leave a comment once your ride is complete. Uber usually deactivates poorly rated drivers to keep the platform safe.

What Is the Caveat?

While ride-share apps can offer you a legitimate way to save money on some of your transportation costs, it is also essential to understand the risks involved. One big issue that you need to keep in mind is the varying price rate.

Ride-share apps such as Uber have been developed to increase prices on different occasions. The pricing model is based on demand and supply. For instance, if you request a ride during peak hours, the cost can be double or even triple of what you would have paid during off-peak hours.

Another major concern is that neither Uber nor any other ride-share app insures passengers or passenger belongings in case of theft or an accident. Considering that some people carry mission-critical and confidential information on paper or electronic format, potential loss of such documents can be catastrophic.

Ride-share services also do not require their drivers to carry proof of identification which puts the passenger at risk. On the contrast, Montreal limousine services perform extensive background checks on chauffeurs to help protect the business name and passengers as well.

What Is the Bottom Line?

While ride-share apps come in handy at certain times, you will always need executive, comfortable, and high-class transportation for your special occasions. Montreal limousine and other limo service companies are several steps ahead of the ride-share apps when it comes to offering quality service.

With a private limo service, you get the opportunity of being chauffeured around with an experienced professional who understands the ins and outs of a city. Also, you get to ride in world-class cars that are kept clean and well-maintained inside out. Generally, you receive customized service that suits your unique needs.

Paul Petersen