20170322 Drinking and Smoking

Sometimes the rider asks us: can I drink in your car? Can I smoke in your car? The answer is no, but I don’t want to say no. I don’t want to upset the rider. This is a situation, where we need to know what’s going on in the car before we start the trip. We also have to be patient with the rider. If I show up and the rider is drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes, I’ll say: unfortunately my company policy does not allow open beverage containers or smoking in the car. I’m happy to wait, while you finish outside. I’m willing to repeat it, calmly, especially if my rider insists on drinking. If all else fails, I tell the rider: let me cancel at no charge, and the next driver might be able to help you out. If someone smokes or drinks in the car after you begin the trip, you still need to be calm and patient. Don’t blame the rider. Instead, offer to pull over so the rider can finish outside.