DCA to courthouse area--Uber or cab? (Arlington: flat fee, insurance, taxi)

[Skatergirl]

I have a friend coming in and can't pick her up--wondering which is the cheaper way to go for an evening pick up (Thursday). Personally, I've found uber to be pricey when I've taken it during the day, but also have had a cabby that didn't seem to know where they were going, so looking for suggestions here. Appreciate all input.

[FCNova]

Uber usually seems cheaper to me. And typically more convenient. The only downside I've heard is the insurance aspect. If you're injured in a car accident in an Uber cab not sure you'll get anything from them because of the way the company is structured, whereas a cab company should have some liability coverage that would kick in but maybe that's not true.

[MedvedActual]

Is there no way to get a quote for each and then go with the cheaper option? Also, what about taking the metro, at least part of the way? Methinks the latter would cost less.

[KnownUnknown]

I would lyft line. You'll get a set price and you'll know what it is before you get in the car, and there is a good chance you won't actually have to share the car, and it'll still be cheaper.

I HATE riding in cabs. The cars are old, they often smell like a giant ash tray on wheels, because that's what they are. Questionable stains and all around dirty.

[gomason]

There are definitely a lot of Uber drivers that get lost so dont think thats just a cab issue.

Arlington Red Top has an app so you probably compare prices beforehand.

[boyd888]

There's not going to be any real difference for such a short trip, maybe $5 - what is it like a ten minute drive?

I would open Uber (or Lyft) when walking to the front of the airport and if there's one nearby and it's not surcharging it'll be cheaper/faster. However, if the closest driver is eight minutes away and there's a 2.4x surcharge....off to the taxi stand I go.

Cheapest option would be to metro to Courthouse if you live within walking distance. It's like $2.

[smarterguy]

If they're flying in, just walk outside and grab a cab. If she has a smart phone, give her your address and she can Google map while the cabbie drive

[Zack]

Originally Posted by FCNova

The only downside I've heard is the insurance aspect. If you're injured in a car accident in an Uber cab not sure you'll get anything from them because of the way the company is structured, whereas a cab company should have some liability coverage that would kick in but maybe that's not true.

Many cab companies structure themselves into numerous subsidiaries to avoid liabilities and exposure of assets. It's not just Uber doing it.

[ACWhite]

If she's leaving from DCA, I'm not sure she has an option - she may have to stand in the cab line. (I know at Dulles I was told I had to take a certain cab - maybe one can get Uber etc. if Uber is permitted to pick one up at another point, e.g., like a family member). But as others have said, that is a short ride - but would be much more than $5 - I would estimate it at $18-20 plus tip. I live nearer the airport than Courthouse is, and pay no less than $10 including tip, for cabs. Rides from the airport in cabs have a flat fee (maybe $2.50) to start with, and this is added to the fare.

[elias9193]

I've seen people get picked up by Uber drivers all the time from DCA . You just walk across the road to
the second median and they pick you up there.