Local Residents Know #NVneedsUBER

Meet Retired Marine Steve

Local residents across Nevada are speaking up about Uber’s return to the Silver State. From jobs for driver partners to more choices for riders, everyone has something to say about how Uber would make Nevada better.

Here’s Steve’s story:

As a combat veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, I spent nearly a decade fighting to keep our country safe, but as someone who has been personally affected by the perils of drinking and driving, fighting to keep our streets safe has always been just as important. I experienced first-hand the devastating consequences of driving while intoxicated when my mother was ejected from a convertible while riding as a passenger — because the driver, who had been drinking, crashed the car. I’ve remained committed to making sure others understand the life altering effects of drunk driving.

As a Captain of Marines, I wanted to make sure my peers and subordinates made safe choices. I led and briefed thousands on the dangers of drinking and driving. Prior to each weekend or holiday, I gave briefs to Marines regarding the cost/benefit analysis of driving while intoxicated. Making responsible choices and having a plan to get home safe was simply a part of military training.

Now, my wife Brittany and I live in Rhodes Ranch, in Southwest Las Vegas. Not too long ago, we were out to dinner in Downtown Summerlin. When one drink turned into four, I knew I needed to heed my own advice and find a safe ride home.

We called six cab companies to get one to agree to come for us. Four cab companies simply rejected our request while two said they would be there within 15-30 minutes. We waited just over two hours and no one came. Never in my life have I been so tempted to drive while intoxicated. I began to think about the “moment of clarity” a few of my Marines would tell me about when explaining their DUI convictions, and how their failed plan resulted in their impaired decision to drive intoxicated. I then began to think about how many local residents would have decided to drive home under the influence after a “moment of clarity” resulted in a failed cab attempt. Residents of greater Las Vegas deserve better.

During a trip to Phoenix, I got the chance to use Uber. With the tap of a button I had a safe and affordable ride in a matter of minutes. I couldn’t have asked for a better service.

We should be doing everything we can to keep Nevada’s streets safe. Bringing Uber back will deliver reliable rides to all communities, and get people who shouldn’t be driving off the road.