NEW ORLEANS – Beginning today, the Uber transportation network will expand throughout every parish in Louisiana. Uber currently operates in Louisiana’s largest cities, but those in rural and suburban communities were previously left behind, without one clear set of rules for ridesharing in Louisiana.
The expansion comes as a new statewide rideshare law, which replaces the previous patchwork of regulations and was signed by Governor John Bel Edwards earlier this month, takes effect. Louisianians from all corners of the state will soon have access to new transportation options and opportunities to earn additional income.
“We are thrilled to launch the Uber app throughout Louisiana, giving people in more communities the opportunity to earn money and request rides at the tap of a button,” said Trevor Theunissen, director of public affairs for Uber South. “We thank the legislators, businesses, Uber driver-partners, community leaders, and all those in the Let’s Geaux Louisiana Coalition for their work to bring ridesharing statewide in Louisiana.”
Drivers in all areas of Louisiana who are looking to serve their communities and work on their own schedule can sign up to drive on the platform through the Uber website. New riders can download the free smartphone app and create an account.
“From getting a safe ride home after a night out to earning extra money as a driver, everyone across our state will finally be able to access the Uber app,” said senator Rick Ward (R-District 17). “I’m proud of our work at the Legislature that paved the way for this expansion and look forward to Louisiana reaping the same economic benefits that come from statewide ridesharing as in the more than 40 other states with similar laws.”
According to a study by the Economic Development Research Group, the take-home amount in gross revenue for all of Uber’s driver and delivery partners in 2017 was more than $12.9 billion. The net economic value-add to drivers is $5.7 billion annually. Nearly a quarter (23-percent) of drivers nationwide were unemployed prior to driving with Uber. Schedule flexibility is the most commonly reported amenity benefit for drivers.
The study also noted that 14-percent of Uber trips in the United States allowed riders to visit destinations they could not access without Uber.
“We are thrilled to welcome Uber to Central Louisiana,” said Deborah Randolph, Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce president. “Uber’s arrival will strengthen the safety of our residents, help visitors reach more destinations, and increase the economic vitality of our small businesses. Access to rideshare is a service that citizens in CENLA as well as other smaller communities within Louisiana have long deserved and wanted – thankfully it is now a reality.”
Uber’s mission is to create opportunity through movement. For more information, visit www.uber.com.