The math for a rideshare driver is a delicate balance - you have your miles driven, gas expenses, fares earned, etc. A one-time negative occurrence can really throw off the calculus. One of these dreaded ‘negatives’ is a traffic ticket. Here are some things to keep in mind to avoid tickets and have your time on the road be about making money and not paying it.

Drive Safely This sounds like common sense but it can be hard to stick to when you’re spending a lot of time on the road. Practice defensive driving techniques and obey speed limits and other traffic laws. Excessive lane changing, illegal U-turns, and other aggressive driving techniques increase the odds that you’ll attract law enforcement’s attention and that you may get in an accident. It’s not worth the scant minutes you might shave off your trip time.

Always Wear Your Seatbelt. Goes without saying but it deserves its own section. Good advice for avoiding tickets and, you know, just for staying alive in general.

Know the Local Laws This is where it can be very beneficial to know the area you’re driving in, whether you live there or not. Be familiar with one-way streets, bus lanes, no-stopping zones and other location specific ordinances. It will not only keep you from getting tickets but will keep you from scaring the daylights out of your passengers when you narrowly avoid a head-on collision.

Especially Know the Airport Rules Know if you can pick up or drop off at the airport in your city. Airport trips can be rich fares but not if they come with a court summons attached. Check here for more info.

Know the Local Cops Do some preliminary research on places like Uberpeople or with your fellow rideshare drivers and see if local police are on the lookout for specific infractions. Keep an eye out for red light cameras and speed traps in your area.

Maintain Your Vehicle Glaring maintenance issues can draw the attention of law enforcement officers. Sometimes they’re looking for an excuse to pull you over - so don’t give them the excuse! All of the following should be taken care of immediately before your next driving session.

            -Cracked windshield

            -Broken tail lights

            -Broken license plate lights

            -An obstructed license plate

            -Expired plates or registration

Don’t Buy THAT Car This only applies to people in the market for a new car that they’ll use for rideshare driving but it’s solid advice nonetheless. Evidence*** has shown that flashier models of cars in brighter colors attract more attention from the police. There’s a reason rideshare drivers love a black/white/grey Prius/Accord/Camry.

Be Careful During Pickups

The time between the ping and the pickup can be the time you’re most at risk of getting a ticket. Some things to keep in mind during pickup and dropoff:

●Know which side of the road the passenger is waiting on and plan accordingly to avoid illegal parking and U-turns.

●Call the passenger, especially if it’s a busy location or event. Ask them what they’re wearing (in a non-sexy way) and set a specific location to find them.

●Have passengers meet you at a legal spot not in a taxi/bus/red-curb/no-parking zone.

●Explain to passengers what you’re doing and why and that you’re prioritizing their safety.

Find other pickup advice at The Rideshare Guy.