Uber, Lyft drivers worry about rising gas prices from Iran war

War in the Middle East has pushed US oil prices higher, and drivers for ride-hailing apps are feeling the effect. Oil climbed past $100 a barrel before retreating to around $90 after President Donald Trump suggested the war with Iran could soon come to a close.

AAA data show the average price of a gallon of gasoline in the US jumped by about $0.40 over the past week, and gasoline prices in California remain among the highest in the country. Several drivers say they are changing which trips they accept to protect earnings.

Justin Fisher in Houston now focuses on the most profitable rides even if those trips take him to areas he does not believe are safe. Sergio Avedian, who drives in Southern California, noted local pump prices rose by about $1 at his two stations and expects many drivers to favor longer freeway trips over short city runs that use more fuel.

United States, Houston; Southern California

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