Uber offers free rides, Lyft suspends surge pricing in Las Vegas after deadly mass shooting
UPDATED (3:15 p.m. ET) Updated to include additional services offered by Lyft
In the chaotic wake of the deadliest mass shooting in recent U.S. history, Uber and Lyft have altered their prices in Las Vegas so people could exit the chaos without being charged exorbitant fees.
The swift moves come after ride services have been criticized in the past for price gouging in the aftermath of disaster.
According to a statement, Uber waived all fares "around the affected area" on Sunday night and continues to offer free rides for some shooting-related trips.
Our hearts ache for everyone affected by this senseless tragedy. We stand ready to support the victims and the Las Vegas community as they recover from this devastating act.
Shortly after hearing about the incident, we worked to ensure all rides from around the affected area were free of charge. Additionally, we are providing free rides to and from area hospitals, the family reunification center, and United Blood Services donor centers for those who wish to donate blood.
Lyft announced it had suspended its "Prime Time" surge functionality in Las Vegas
We're heartbroken. Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones. We suspended Prime Time immediately after we understood what was happening. We also communicated to drivers about the developing situation.
In addition to this, Lyft announced later on Monday it was offering free rides of up to $40 with the code "VEGASHOPE" to several blood donation centers, relief centers, and hospitals in Las Vegas. The full list is below.
Blood Donation
Labor Health & Welfare Clinic: 7135 W Sahara Ave #100, Las Vegas, NV 89117
United Blood Services: 6930 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89117
United Blood Services: 4950 W. Craig Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89310
United Blood Services, Henderson: 601 Whitney Ranch Dr. Bldg. D, Ste 20, Henderson, NV 89014
Hospitals
Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center: 3186 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89109
University Medical Center: 1800 W Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
Desert Springs Hospital: 2075 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Valley Hospital: 620 Shadow Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89106
Relief Centers
UNLV Thomas & Mac Center: 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89154
Family Reunification Center: Metro Headquarters, 400 S. MLK BLVD Building B
After Uber was criticized for massive surge pricing in the wake of the June 2017 London and September 2016 New York City terror attacks, they issued refunds to all victims who were affected by surge pricing, attempting to send a strong message that victims should feel comfortable turning to Uber in times of emergency.
In January, both Uber and Lyft were criticized for high prices after travel ban protests at JFK left travelers stranded without an affordable way to get home, though much of the public's ire focused on Uber. The high prices inspired the hashtag campaign #DeleteUber.
Both Uber and Lyft have received positive responses on social media for stepping up, while drivers and citizens have offered to drive for free or pay for rides.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.
President Donald Trump has expressed condolences to shooting victims on Twitter, and called for unity in a speech Monday.
If you want to help shooting victims, Las Vegas hospitals are reportedly in desperate need of blood donations. Here's how to help.
