I use Uber a lot. Since I do not have a car of my own, it is my most preferable mode of transport. In most days, I usually take Uber two rides, sometimes more. For me, the hardest part is rating the drivers once the journey is completed. Let me explain.

By asking me to review the performance of a driver with whom I spend less than adequate time, I believe Uber is asking me a lot. Specially when you consider the fact that your rating could have a financial impact on the livelihood of the drivers.

You see, when you take a ride on Uber, you have very little time to know the driver. The ride could be uneventful or there could be a fiasco, which sometimes happens. But the point is, you interact with your driver for a very short period. And I know from my experience that it is not a good idea to judge someone unless you know them better and put yourself in their shoes. The driver could usually be a very nice person, but having some tough days. And I will have to judge him based on his worst days, which is unfair to the driver.

Now it could be argued that it is necessary for the system and it is forcing drivers to act professionally and make them accountable. But the system is being run by a company whose main goal is to maximize the profits and cut costs at any cost. We also know how workers were held to account before the May Day happened. When I read the news about how Uber (or its algorithm) is treating its driver, it seems to me like a modern day slavery.

So, usually, I just skip the rating part after I finished my ride. Even if the driver is rude to me and makes a fiasco, I do not do the review. There are incidents when I have to report a driver, but that rarely happens. It gives me peace of mind.