While HopSkipDrive has similarities to rideshare companies, there are some important differences. Because Riders are primarily children, they require thoughtful care beyond what would be expected when driving adult passengers.
If you have experience driving for a rideshare company, keep the following key differences in mind when driving with HopSkipDrive:
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There are multiple verification steps at pickup. The verification process is designed to make sure the right Rider gets in the right CareDriver's vehicle, every time. It is important to follow all the verification steps every time you perform a ride, even if you've driven the Rider before.
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Riders cannot make changes to routes or refuse a ride. HopSkipDrive rides are scheduled in advance and routes can only be changed by Ride Organizers. Riders and their Caregivers cannot add or change stops and Riders cannot refuse a ride. If a Ride Organizer makes a change, you'll be updated via the app or contacted by HopSkipDrive support. If you have questions, contact the Ride Organizer or HopSkipDrive support.
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Care doesn't stop at the car door. Unlike adult rideshare passengers, Riders may require additional steps to ensure their safety. In general, CareDrivers should use common sense, taking into account weather, time of day, and Rider's age to take reasonable steps to make sure Riders are safe. Some Riders will have specific requirements noted in the app that CareDrivers must follow, such as a requirement that the Rider be met by an adult. Because these requirements are so important for the safety of our Riders, we include the time CareDrivers spend on them in the total Driver Fee.
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Pickup and drop-off times are specific and important. HopSkipDrive rides are scheduled ahead of time and carefully coordinated around requirements like school start and end times. This means that prompt arrival is very important. We do everything possible to give CareDrivers the tools they need to arrive and depart on time, including suggested start times.
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Riders often like to chat! Many CareDrivers report that talking with their Riders is one of the highlights of driving with HopSkipDrive. Positive conversations focused on appropriate topics can be a wonderful part of the CareDriver experience if both the Rider and CareDriver feel comfortable.
- HopSkipDrive is here to help! You're never on your own when driving with HopSkipDrive. Our Safe Ride Support team monitors every ride in real time, and you may be contacted by them if they notice anything unusual. If you have questions or need help, you can always contact support at 844-HOP-SKIP.