Uber prepares statewide launch ahead of July 4th

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After years of pushback, ridesharing finally became a statewide reality in March when Gov. Kay Ivey signed a bill making Alabama the 45th state in the nation to welcome comprehensive ridesharing.

Now, just a few months later, the law is about to go into effect and the global ridesharing juggernaut Uber is expanding to every county in the Yellowhammer State on Sunday, July 1 allowing access to rides at the tap of a button to new communities ahead of July 4th celebrations.

Uber + MADD

In anticipation of the upcoming holiday, Uber is joining forces with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to help raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and remind those drinking over the holiday to make safe choices.

While many enjoy cookouts and family vacations, the summer holiday is among the ‘100 deadliest days on the road,’ which fall between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “drinking and driving continues to be the leading cause of death on our roads, with more than 10,000 lives lost across the country each year and nearly 300 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities in Alabama in 2016.”

Which is why Uber and MADD are speaking up ahead of the summer holiady.

“Uber is committed to helping make drinking and driving a thing of the past by connecting people to reliable rides at the push of a button – and now those rides won’t stop at city limits,” said Uber Southeast General Manager Kasra Moshkani. “As Uber launches throughout Alabama and brings service to new communities, we are proud to partner with MADD to encourage those celebrating during the July 4th holiday to make smart choices. We thank Governor Kay Ivey for her leadership paving the way for residents and visitors across Alabama to have the access to convenient rides and flexible work opportunities they deserve.”

“There is never an excuse to drink and drive, and Uber’s expansion throughout Alabama will make it easier than ever to get a safe ride home,” added Pamela Morton, MADD Alabama State Director. “We are proud to team up with Uber to make progress on our goal of getting to zero – zero deaths, zero injuries, zero families impacted by impaired driving. Whether it’s with a designated driver, a bus, or an Uber trip, if you’re drinking this July 4th, leave your keys at home and take a ride on the safe side.”

Uber is hiring

Uber also offers people new opportunities to work—on their own terms.  With this expansion, Uber will connect drivers in all areas of Alabama who are looking to serve their communities with new opportunities. Individuals interested in driving on the Uber platform can sign up on the Uber website.