Uber launches affordable ridesharing in Saskatoon
SASKATOON, SK, Feb. 5, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - Today, Uber officially launches its affordable uberX ridesharing service in Saskatoon, offering residents and visitors a safe and easy way to get around the city with a few taps on their mobile device.
Saskatoon marks Uber's first ridesharing launch in Saskatchewan after the provincial government adopted new regulation for ridesharing services, followed by Saskatoon's by-law approvals in December 2018.
"We are excited about the launch of new safe and affordable transportation options for the city of Saskatoon, along with flexible economic opportunities for local residents," said Michael van Hemmen, Business Manager (west), Uber Canada. "We also want to highlight the innovative and collaborative approach taken by the provincial government and municipal authorities to help make this launch possible."
The city also represents Uber's first market entry in partnership with a provincial government-run auto insurance program. Working with Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI), Uber's blanket auto-insurance program provides insurance for every ridesharing trip allowing drivers to use their personal vehicles without additional individual insurance requirements.
"The fight against impaired driving is a priority for our government, and ridesharing will provide another option for people to get home safely. We welcome Uber to Saskatchewan," said the Honourable Joe Hargrave, Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI)
Offering a safe and reliable way home, Uber's launch in Saskatoon comes in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada. As part of the long-term partnership, both organizations work together to support regulatory reform promoting greater access to ridesharing as a service that contributes to road safety and prevents impaired driving.
"Having access to safe, convenient and accessible transportation options is a crucial way to reduce impaired driving and related crashes, deaths and injuries," said MADD Chief Executive Officer Andrew Murie. "With Uber, you can book a safe and reliable ride home at the push of a button. MADD Canada is very pleased that this important option is now available to the people of Saskatoon."
With Uber, safety is built into every trip. Riders and drivers alike can quickly access Uber's key safety information and resources in one dedicated place within the app. Users can review safety tools and controls, find safety tips, contact emergency services or learn more about driver screening processes, insurance protection and community guidelines right from the home screen.
ABOUT UBER CANADA
Co-founded by Calgarian entrepreneur Garrett Camp in 2009, Uber is evolving the way the world moves. Present in communities across Canada, Uber has revolutionized transportation and offers Canadian driver-partners a new way to earn income in their spare time by offering an affordable transportation alternative to riders across the country. For more information, visit uber.com.
SOURCE Uber Canada Inc.
Jean-Christophe de le Rue, Public Policy Manager, Uber Canada, [email protected]
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