Welcome to New York

If you happen to be anywhere in Manhattan south of 125th, Via is for you. On weekdays between 6 am and 9 pm, any ride costs just $5. Yes, you read that correctly. $5, or the amount you paid for your Vanilla Latte on the way to work for, can get you anywhere in the Big Apple. No surge pricing, no hidden fees. For those looking to stay out a little later on weekdays, from 9 pm to midnight, the fare only increases by 95 cents. Looking to explore the cities on the weekend? Via is perfect for those with brunch plans and rides from 10 am to midnight are just $5.95.

If You’re Ever In Chi-town…

And anywhere in Loop, West Loop, River North, or Lincoln Park and Lakeview, you are in luck. Users can ride anywhere on weekdays from 6:30 am to 9pm for just $3.95. Think of all those things you can do with the money saved… Blackhawk tickets, Cubs games, Comedy Clubs, those experiences are in reach. Those dream Lollapalooza tickets? Now a reality. Via will make sure you don’t miss out on everything Chicago has to offer, and make transportation a non-issue.

How Does it Work?

Via takes all passengers that are heading in the same direction and matches them with a driver going that way. They’ll meet you at a nearby location and drop you off close to your destination. The trip times are similar to the more expensive services and more convenient than public transit. The wait times average around five minutes, and before you book you will get an estimate time of arrival making it easier to plan your trip.

When transportation isn’t a hassle, these cities are easy to explore and enjoy. Install PSafe Total to extend battery life and make sure that Via is always at your fingertips.

Uber

The Uber app provides a platform for users to submit trip requests, which are then sent to nearby Uber drivers. Once you install the Uber app, sign up, and link your credit card or PayPal account to the system as a form of payment. Uber uses this info to create a cash-free environment, and you’ll only be charged when you finish the ride.

To get a lift, simply confirm your pickup location, select your car preference, and tap away to submit your request. Within a few seconds, an Uber vehicle will be on its way to meet you, and in the meantime, you can view your driver’s contact information, and license plate number. The app will even send you alerts on the driver’s expected arrival time, and let you split the ride with other users.

When you reach your destination, just hop out! No waiting to pay or tip. All you have to do is rate your driver, and your driver will rate you. This system helps Uber consistently employ the best drivers for the job, and warn them about troublesome or belligerent riders.

Read More: Waze: The Android App for Navigation and Traffic

Lyft

The Lyft app facilitates peer-to-peer ridesharing by connecting passengers who need a ride with drivers who have a car. After you download the Lyft app, all that’s left to do is make an account, enter your phone number, and supply a valid form of payment.

When you want a car, just open the app, and request a ride from a nearby driver. Once confirmed, the app shows the driver’s name, their ratings from previous passengers, and photos of the car, and driver.

When the ride ends, you’re good to go! The app lets you pay, and tip your driver right on your smartphone. Just like with Uber, Lyft passengers and drivers also rate each other after every ride. Both of these driving services take their user ratings, and driver feedback very seriously.

Ready to Ride?

Whether you’re in a rush, or are simply looking for convenience, check out Uber and Lyft! Already using these apps, and have a preference between the two? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.