The City of Summit and Uber New Jersey announced the successful completion of 2015’s Ride for $5 promotion and released statistics showing that local DUI arrests dropped to zero during the two week period that the City offered $5 Uber rides throughout Summit.
A survey of Summit residents who took $5 rides this past December found that 64% used the promotion because it offered a way to get “home safely after a night out.” Sixtyeight percent said that they were “more likely to stay in Summit for holiday shopping or social events” because of the flat rate offer.
“Our promotion with Uber encouraged residents to spend more time in the downtown shopping district during the holiday season, and provided a predictable, safe way to get home from a night out,” explained Common Council President Michael McTernan . “This program was an effective way to support local businesses and introduce a useful service for residents as we explore future ridesharing options.”
“This past December, I’m proud to report that the Summit Police did not have any Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) arrests, and I attribute that in part to the City partnering with Uber,” said Police Chief Robert Weck . “Over the past few years, Summit sees an average of 2 or 3 DWI arrests during the month of December, which presents a real threat to public safety on many different levels. Working with Uber is just another example of the City of Summit’s forward thinking for the safety and well being of its residents and visitors.”
“We’re honored to have played a role in boosting Summit’s local economy and making its streets safer during a time when accidents often spike,” said Ana Mahony, General Manager for Uber New Jersey. “At Uber, we’re deeply committed to finding ways that our technology can help local governments improve the quality of life for their constituents.”