The CDC recently announced new updates to their public health recommendations to include the latest understanding of the Delta variant. These announcements are indicative of an uncertain timeline for the ongoing pandemic and growing uncertainty for drivers returning to the road.
Over the last few months, loosening mandates brought rideshare demand back to near pre-pandemic levels, but how likely is that trend to continue now? And, what impact might the Delta variant have on drivers?
Here’s what we know
Despite the rise in Covid-19 cases and hotspots across the country, people are still traveling. However, drivers are less eager to put themselves at risk, causing a driver shortage for both Lyft and Uber.
Drivers are hesitant to begin sharing their vehicles with strangers as infection rates rise again. There’s also strong evidence that suggests that the Delta variant might be up to two times more contagious than the original strain, posing an even greater risk to driver safety.
Based on this graph from Fortune, it’s clear that the Delta variant is now the primary concern in the ongoing pandemic, accounting for more than 80% of new cases across the majority of the country.
Still, economists don’t predict that the new contagion will significantly impact growth and consumer spending. The U.S. government has also released a statement claiming that they will not reinforce lockdowns as they did earlier in the pandemic.
How does this affect drivers?
Lyft and Uber are developing new campaigns to get drivers back on the road by offering incentives for active drivers to match renewed consumer demand.
It’s a tricky time. While getting back on the road with case numbers rising can be of concern, it might also pose opportunities for drivers to cash in on increased demand and bonuses to make up for lost earnings over the past year.
There’s also no guarantee that closures and restrictions won’t return as the situation develops. While the federal government has stated that they will not impose new restrictions, each state is still responsible for making its own decisions on closures and mandates. Here is some of the latest information on how each state is handling lockdowns. Your driver experience will depend on the actions taken in your market, so it’s essential to stay up to date.
How can drivers protect themselves?
One possible silver lining is that we’ve been here before and are prepared for what’s to come. We’re no longer in the “unprecedented times.” Drivers and passengers have all been through the process, so we should have an idea of how and when to take precautions.
Masks and frequent vehicle sanitization are a great place to start, but there are also other ways you can protect yourself as a driver.
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What else should drivers know?
The Delta variant is also disrupting rises in airline traffic and event attendance. Traveling and in-person gatherings represent significant earnings opportunities.
Major airlines like Southwest are already reporting an uptick in requests for cancellations and flight changes, stalling the recent resurgence in airport traffic for drivers.
Recently, Chicago showcased its music festival, Lollapalooza, entertaining 385,000 people. Other significant events, like live concert performances and football games, are still on to make their comeback in 2021. But, that could all change as people question whether it’s safe to attend large gatherings right now.
Drivers planning for high-traffic weekends driven by these live events should keep an eye on updates like restrictions, attendance numbers, and the number of event cancellations.
Gridwise keeps you on track!
With so much uncertainty over what the Delta variant might bring, it pays to prepare for anything and everything. Gridwise helps drivers stay up-to-date on the latest developments relevant to their business.
Spend less time waiting at the airport with real-time reports on passenger volume, app-specific queue length, and custom airport alerts that will help you maximize earnings even as passengers change their flight plans.
Gridwise also gives you the latest information on nearby events so you can see what’s happening and the best times to drive.
If you’re returning to the road, download the Gridwise app to access the data and updates you need to stay safe and earn more!
