Researchers say they found a troubling trend with ride sharing services like “Uber” and “Lyft.”
A new study, which took a closer look at drivers in Boston and Seattle, Washington, suggested some drivers cancel rides based on a passenger’s race.
The study published by the National Bureau of Economic research said Uber driver in Boston are more likely to cancel a ride if the passenger has an African-American sounding name.
The study also suggested drivers in Boston take female passengers on needlessly longer and more expensive rides.
In a statement to 7News, Uber said:
We believer Uber is helping reduce transportation inequities across the board, but studies like this one are helpful in thinking about how we can do even more.
In a statement to 7News, Lyft said:
We are extremely proud of the positive impact Lyft has on the communities of color. Because of Lyft, people living in undeserved areas…are now able to access convenient, affordable rides.
Lyft’s spokesperson also added, “In Boston, the study found no evidence of discrimination by Lyft drivers.”
(Copyright (c) 2024 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)