Melbourne New Year’s Eve 2017: Uber ‘surge’ rates warning

UBER has warned its passengers to double check its “surge” rates during New Year’s Eve to avoid any horrific surprises at the end of the trip.

UBER has warned its passengers to double check its “surge” rates during New Year’s Eve to avoid any horrific surprises at the end of the trip.

The price hikes are expected to climb more than three times the company’s normal rates at some points.

It comes after price surge horror stories emerged from all over the world last New Year’s Eve, including a Sydney woman who was stung $720 for a ride that would have normally cost $100.

The company has since introduced new features on its updated application including upfront fare estimates.

Uber spokeswoman Katie Curran said the highest fares would likely be between midnight and 3am tonight.

“If dynamic pricing is in effect, the app will show the fare estimate and the surge multiple that will apply to the fare and ask the rider to confirm before requesting. The goal is no surprises,” Ms Curran said.

“On New Year’s Eve last year around 70 per cent of trips had no surge pricing and only 10 per cent had surge pricing of more than 3 times.

“Our goal is to ensure anyone, anywhere can push a button and get a ride within minutes, even on the busiest nights of the year.”

Ms Curran also warned revellers to check they are hopping into the right car.

“Double check the car’s model and license plate in the app before you hop in your ride, and confirm it’s your driver by asking for their name and looking at their picture,” she said.

[e-mail]