Fall in New York State is a fun time; filled with lots of foliage and a calendar filled with exciting events. For rideshare drivers, this season offers a big opportunity, with the increased demand for transportation services. Successfully navigating the bustling fall events can be a bit challenging, especially with the high amount of tourists and locals attending concerts, festivals, or sports games.
Know the Events
The key to success as a rideshare driver during the fall season is staying informed about the event schedule. Familiarize yourself with the dates, times, and locations of events, including:
- New York Comic Con (Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, NYC) – October. This pop culture event draws fans from all over the world. Expect a surge in ridership around the Javits Center when the event is in town.
- US Open (Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens) – August through September. Watchers from near and far flock to the US Open every August and September. Be ready for high demand for rides to and from the tournament.
- Fall Fashion Week (Various locations in NYC) – September. Fashionistas and designers attend various venues in Manhattan for this iconic event. Keep an eye on the fashion week schedule to position yourself for pickups near venues like Spring Studios.
- Buffalo Bills Games (Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park) – September through January. As New York State’s NFL team, Buffalo Bills’ home games at Highmark Stadium are major events, especially during the fall. Expect high demand for rides to and from the stadium on game days.
- Syracuse University Football Games (Carrier Dome, Syracuse) – September through January. Syracuse University’s football games at the Carrier Dome draw crowds of fans, including both students and locals. Plan your shifts to accommodate game times.
- High School Football Games (Various locations across the state). Friday night high school football games are a cherished tradition in many communities across New York State. These games can generate local demand, so consider checking schedules for high school football games in your area and nearby towns.
Time Your Shifts Wisely
Fall events often translate to high demand for rideshare services, especially during evenings and weekends. Plan your shifts to happen during these high-demand periods, including:
- Broadway Showtimes. Broadway theaters are in full swing during the fall season. Take advantage of pre-show and post-show transportation needs.
- Yankees and Mets Games (Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, NYC). Both the Yankees and Mets play home games during the fall. Schedule your shifts to accommodate game times.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
GPS apps like Waze and Google Maps can help you navigate through heavy traffic and find the quickest routes to your passengers’ destinations. Additionally, rideshare platforms often provide surge pricing during peak hours or events, which can significantly boost your earnings. Keep an eye on these pricing adjustments and focus on areas with higher surges.
Be Prepared for Traffic and Road Closures
Fall events in New York State can cause heavy traffic congestion. Prepare by:
- Allowing extra time for your rides.
- Avoid aggressive driving or shortcuts that may lead to traffic violations.
- Familiarize yourself with alternate routes and back roads to navigate around traffic bottlenecks efficiently.
- Stay informed about any road closures and parking restrictions around event venues for security and traffic management.
- Follow local news, traffic updates, or official event websites for real-time information on road closures and parking regulations.
Plan for Pick-Up and Drop-Off Spots
Event venues can be chaotic, with large crowds and limited parking options. Plan your pick-up and drop-off locations strategically to make it easy for passengers to find you and for you to access the area efficiently. Avoid congested spots and try to choose locations with clear landmarks or signs.
Communicate Effectively
Clear communication with passengers is vital during busy events. You can contact them before the ride to confirm the pick-up location and verify any specific instructions they may have. A friendly and professional attitude can ensure a positive experience and lead to higher ratings and tips.
By staying informed, planning strategically, and providing excellent service, you can make the most of this season’s increased demand for transportation services.
