This post contains affiliate links.
Regarding traveling, there are plenty of options to choose from that will allow you to get where you need to go. Regarding specific transportation methods, two stick out: care to share and ride-hailing. Many may not know the difference between these two terms. So, what is the difference?
Car sharing is renting a car, while ride-hailing is an ordered car ride. Both are excellent forms of transportation that allow more freedom to travel than traditional public transportation. Each will fulfill its purpose in allowing someone to get where they need to go.
In this article, I will address the difference between the two and see which option is the best. We will also explain why one would use each of these services and whether they are worth using. Let's now go ahead and dive into this subject.
Car Sharing – what is it and how do you use it?
The most basic definition of car sharing, also known as ride-sharing, is renting out a car and using it while paying an hourly fee for the ride-sharing service. It allows someone to find and rent out a vehicle and drive it themselves. This form of transportation service is perhaps the best option to have the highest freedom of transportation, as it does not restrict someone to certain hours and limits of the ride-sharing service.
If the rented vehicle is paid per hour and on time, the user may use the rented vehicle as long as possible. We need to also consider our responsibility for the rented car itself. For one, we are now responsible for any damages the car takes and for returning the car to its original owner. Other than being accountable, it is an excellent source of transportation.
That's the thing with car renting as well, it is not like a traditional car rental place owned by a company. Ride-sharing is renting a car by a privately owned individual who is not associated with any major company. It can be seen as lending a car out through payments. As with all car services, the car must be operable and in good condition by both the lender and the user. Fees will continue to be applicable if anything happens to the car by the owner or the user.
Ride-Hailing – what is it and how do you use it?
In contrast to driving someone else's car as means of transportation, ride-hailing orders someone else's service to drive you using their own vehicle. Some quick examples of ride-hailing are Uber and Lyft (which one is cheaper?). In these instances, the ride-hailing service is operated by a major company via a third-party method. In this case, the driver owns and operates their vehicle of choice. Though may not be the absolute best option, it is the most convenient and common, especially among college students.
Though this article is focused on cars, it's good to mention that many universities are hiring and employing the use of electric scooters as an easier form of short-distance travel. This provides quick travel but is not ride-hailing as they are only owned by the company and not by any one person.
Reasons For Each Service
There are many reasons why one would use each of these provided services. However, we will just discuss the basic and common reasons one would use.
First off, for ride-sharing, it is mostly used for long-distance travel to and from. It is apparent that using the car is required when making larger trips. Trips can be moving from one city to another, family travels, or business purposes. There are many other reasons, such as feeling more comfortable driving than being a passenger. However, we get the idea of ride-sharing.
Ride-hailing is convenient for those who simply do not own a car, need emergencies, or just do not want to walk or deal with traffic. This method is usually employed for short-term purposes such as grocery, restaurants, or school. You will be subject to when the car arrives and reaches the desired destination. This minor hassle has not detracted from using its service because of its accessibility.
weighing some Other Pros and Cons
Here we will share some pros and cons of each service to help with an informed decision.
Ride-sharing pros:
- Low cost: The fee and overall service are fairly affordable.
- Few worries: Not worrying about your own vehicle is a joy.
- Flexible types of vehicles: Many vehicles are available for any circumstances.
- The incentive to drive safe: Driving someone else's vehicle may motivate people to drive safer due to the fee and consequences if not observed.
Ride-sharing cons:
- Insurance may not cover all damages: Outside insurance and payment may be required to fulfill any damage costs.
- No guaranteed vehicle types: No vehicle is guaranteed to be provided upon request.
- Mileage limits: Some owners will employ specific mileage usage, especially ones that are not the desired amount.
- Membership requirements: Only specific memberships are required for extra benefits.
Ride-hailing pros:
- Very convenient: Everyone wants these ride-hailing services, and many are there to provide them.
- Highly affordable: Anyone can find a service with reasonable fees and distance traveled.
- Provide job opportunities: Everyone uses public services which allow others to take on the job of transporting.
- “Not a taxi”: Every stereotype of a traditional taxi driver will be minimal or removed.
- Accessible for everyone: The young and the old can both request and be granted the service.
Ride-hailing cons:
- Traffic congestion: Surprisingly, the ride-hailing services can cause more traffic jams than others through constantly traveling within the area.
- Drivers earn low pay: Usually below minimum wage and are a type of side hustle.
- Poor driver screening: Poor screening means there are risks when getting in a car with a driver who has not had an effective check before hiring.
Which is the Best?
The best option will depend on the individual and their purpose, but generally, car sharing provides the best option for length and freedom of choice where to go. If you keep up with the hourly fee and keep the vehicle in great shape. Ride-hailing is best for its convenience and is commonplace. For a quick ride, ride-hailing is excellent.
Choose your service wisely and always respect the car and driver of these services.
