Local Uber drivers gear up for a busy New Year’s Eve

Uber drivers on the Central Coast are banking on a busy New Year’s Eve.

Revelers, especially in larger cities, can also expect higher fares because of the high demand.

Last year, Uber received numerous complaints from riders who were shocked over the sudden price increases for rides on New Years’ Eve and New Year’s Day.

So this year, Uber introduced a feature enabling riders can get an estimate of how much a ride will cost before they book one.

Experts also recommend people leave early or leave late to avoid increased fares. That means avoid requesting rides between midnight at 3 a.m.

Residents in Santa Barbara may also have more Uber drivers to choose from. Managers at Meineke Car Care Center in Santa Barbara said they have seen an increase in people getting their cars inspected for Uber permits in the last six months.