Claims Journal recently reported on the fact that Uber Technologies Inc. is pouring millions of dollars into a national ad campaign to push for reforms in insurance policies.

In the report, they quote exclusive Obi rideshare pricing analytics data from Obi’s 2024 Global Rideshare report:

“This bid is one of Uber’s largest lobbying efforts to manage operational costs since its regulatory fights to keep drivers independent contractors and not employees across the nation. The push also comes as inflation pushes up prices on a variety of goods, from eggs to used cars. The cost of rides is the leading reason consumers don’t use rideshare services more often, according to a 2024 report by pricing aggregator Obi.”

Obi is a global real-time aggregator that compares millions of pricing and pick-up (ETA) data points, providing consumers and businesses with actionable insights. The free Obi app allows riders to compare taxis, black cars, and major rideshare providers instantly. With over 900,000 users, Obi partners with dozens of rideshare and taxi providers worldwide to ensure transparency in ride fares.

Data in the Claims Journal report shows that California and New Jersey mandated insurance costs account for a whopping 32% of Uber’s fare in the two states. New York Uber fares are 25% insurance costs.

Claims Journal also quotes that Uber is taking additional initiatives to cut costs internally. It began piloting a program in Los Angeles and San Diego in December that promises to pay drivers back a few dollars or cents per mile if they maintain their own commercial permit, registration and insurance. It plans to expand that program throughout California in the coming months.

Full article available is available here.