I'm an Uber driver. Uber takes about 50% of the fare from passengers and only gives the driver the remaining 50%. Even working 12 hours a day, I often earn less than $200. If I do Uber Eats, I barely make around $100 for 12 hours. How much is the gas cost for driving 12 hours? They're absolute thieves. Also, when passengers damage the car or bring animals that dirty it so much that I can't take the next passenger and lose a day's work, Uber's support team threatens to revoke my driver status if the report is deemed false. In other words, they're telling me not to report it. Even when I have to clean the car because of pet hair, Uber support says they won't cover cleaning costs for pet hair. They take a huge cut of the earnings, yet they treat their drivers so poorly. I even have a pet allergy, so I had set my account to not allow rides with animals... I really don’t know what kind of company this is. Are they just in it for the money? Wake up and think for once, Uber higher-ups. ***"AI's opinion on this matter (AI thinks this way, so why doesn't the Uber team have any sense?)" Your frustration and challenges as an Uber driver are clear in your story. Let’s break down the issues you mentioned, address the situation realistically, and explore possible solutions. I’ll also include the gas cost calculation you requested. 1. Uber’s Commission and Earnings Issue Uber taking about 50% of the fare as commission, leaving drivers with only 50%, is a common grievance among drivers. Earning less than $200 for 12 hours of work, or around $100 for Uber Eats, can feel insufficient to cover living expenses. Reality: Uber’s commission varies by region, service type (UberX, Uber Eats, etc.), and promotions, typically ranging from 20% to 50%, but averaging around 30-40%. However, after taxes, vehicle maintenance, and gas, the actual take-home pay is significantly reduced. Solutions: Consider Other Platforms: Explore other gig economy platforms like Lyft, DoorDash, or Instacart to diversify income. Compare their commission and earnings structures. Leverage Peak Times: Use Uber’s demand prediction data to target high-passenger times (e.g., rush hours, weekend nights) or areas to increase earnings per hour. Tax Deductions: Gas, vehicle maintenance, and cleaning costs can be tax-deductible. Consult a tax professional to reduce expenses. 2. Gas Cost for 12 Hours of Driving Gas costs depend on the vehicle type, fuel efficiency, miles driven, and regional gas prices. Here’s an approximate calculation: Assumptions: Vehicle: A typical midsize sedan (e.g., Toyota Camry, Honda Accord) with an average fuel efficiency of about 25 miles per gallon (city driving, ~10.6 km/L). Miles Driven: For 12 hours, assume 150–200 miles (240–320 km) driven (average speed of 12–17 mph, factoring in city driving and idle time). Gas Price: As of May 2025, the U.S. average gas price is about $3.50 per gallon (varies from $3.00–$4.50 depending on the region; high-cost areas like California are higher). Calculation: 150 miles in 12 hours → 150 ÷ 25 = 6 gallons needed. Gas cost: 6 gallons × $3.50 = $21. 200 miles in 12 hours: 200 ÷ 25 = 8 gallons → 8 × $3.50 = $28. In high-cost areas ($4.50/gallon) for 200 miles: 8 × $4.50 = $36. Conclusion: Gas costs for 12 hours of driving are approximately $21–$36. Additional costs like vehicle maintenance (tire wear, oil changes) and cleaning increase the total expense. 3. Vehicle Damage and Pet Hair Issues Passengers dirtying the car or pet hair causing additional cleaning needs, combined with Uber’s inadequate support, is understandably frustrating. Uber’s policies on cleaning fees or damage compensation are limited and often require strict evidence (photos, videos, etc.). Uber’s Policy: Uber may compensate for vehicle damage (e.g., vomit, severe stains) but often considers pet hair “minor” and denies cleaning fee claims. Support’s threats about “false reports leading to driver deactivation” can feel like intimidation to discourage valid claims. Solutions: Secure Evidence: Take before-and-after photos of the car’s interior and keep records of passenger communications (e.g., confirming pet accompaniment) for stronger claims. Request Cleaning Fees: Use the “Request Cleaning Fee” option in the Uber app and clearly explain the need for cleaning due to pet hair. Even if compensation is unlikely, consistent reporting builds a record. Protect the Vehicle: Use waterproof seat covers or pet mats to minimize interior damage. Refuse Non-Service Animals: Uber policy allows drivers to refuse non-service animals (service animals for disabled passengers cannot be refused). Communicate clearly with passengers to avoid conflicts (e.g., “I can’t accommodate pets to maintain vehicle cleanliness”). 4. Uber’s Treatment of Drivers Uber classifying drivers as “independent contractors” rather than employees, denying benefits or protections, is a global point of contention. High commissions and insufficient support for vehicle damage or other issues fuel driver dissatisfaction. Reality: Uber justifies high commissions with platform costs, insurance, and marketing, but driver expenses (gas, maintenance, taxes) are not factored in. Support responses are often standardized, failing to address individual situations adequately. Solutions: Join Driver Communities: Engage with local Uber driver forums (e.g., Reddit’s r/uberdrivers, local Facebook groups) to share experiences and strategies. Participate in Advocacy: In some U.S. states (e.g., California), there are ongoing discussions about classifying drivers as employees for better benefits. Joining groups like Rideshare Drivers United can amplify your voice. Explore Alternative Income: Consider side gigs (e.g., freelancing, small business) or learning new skills (e.g., coding, trucking) to reduce reliance on Uber long-term. 5. Additional Suggestions Reduce Cleaning Costs: If pet hair requires frequent cleaning, invest in a handheld vacuum or self-cleaning equipment to lower costs. Manage Stress: Uber support and passenger issues can be stressful. Schedule intentional breaks during shifts or use relaxation techniques like meditation or exercise. Uber Eats vs. UberX: As you noted, Uber Eats often yields lower earnings due to tip dependency and longer wait times. Focus on UberX or limit Eats to high-demand areas (e.g., urban restaurant hubs).