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Coronavirus impacting rideshare drivers in Las Vegas

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Posted at 9:54 PM, Mar 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-24 02:45:56-04

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — With many people staying home, some rideshare drivers in the Las Vegas valley are looking for ways to keep making money.

Frankie Guarino is staying on the road, while some Uber and Lyft drivers are hitting the brakes.

However, Guarino says the impact COVID-19 is having on the rideshare business will leave those who rely on passengers in a tough spot.

RELATED: Coronavirus impact on Las Vegas economy

“We don’t have the luxury of having a guaranteed income, nor having health benefits,” says Guarino.

If ridership is low, drivers can pick up a different kind of passenger with Uber Eats.

But, Guarino says drivers won’t make as much delivering food as they would delivering passengers.

Uber has announced they’ve waived delivery fees on all Uber Eats orders from independent restaurants, and Guarino says this will keep businesses open and Uber drivers busy.

“That’s one of the ways of promoting not only social distancing, but to promote the Uber Eats platform,” says Guarino.

Now that Las Vegas Uber drivers can't rely on the hot spots they’re used to like the Las Vegas Strip and McCarran International Airport, drivers have to step out of their usual territory.

“You have to start driving in the communities if you want to make the money, the need is still out there,” says Guarino.