About the study

The study, undertaken by Carnegie Mellon University’s College of Engineering, investigated whether ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft have changed the dynamics of racial discrimination against Black passengers. This research builds on previous findings that using a Black-sounding name results in up to double the cancellation rate compared to a white-sounding name. Despite the cancellation disparity, wait times showed minimal differences, prompting a deeper examination.

Researchers ran simulations of rides in Chicago before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. They estimated that at least 3% of drivers discriminate based on race, which contributes to the observed cancellation disparities. However, the study found that the rapid rematching capability of ride-hailing apps mitigates the impact of driver discrimination on wait times.

According to Jeremy Michalek, professor of engineering and public policy and mechanical engineering, the technology is mitigating a social issue by quickly rematching canceled rides. Unlike traditional taxis, ride-hailing apps help ensure passengers are not left without transportation.

Destenie Nock, professor of civil and environmental engineering, emphasized that the quick reconnection feature allows people to maintain their schedules, such as getting to work or hospital appointments. This feature addresses the hidden injustice of people being passed by on the street.

The study also highlighted systemic issues like residential segregation in Chicago, where Black residents often face longer wait times due to their location. Historical discriminatory practices have led to concentrated Black populations in areas with fewer drivers.

Direct vs. systemic racism 

Anna Cobb, the study’s first author and Ph.D. student, noted that distinguishing between direct and systemic discrimination helps inform strategies to address real-world disparities. While technology mitigates direct discrimination, systemic issues still result in service quality gaps.

The study concluded that while ride-hailing apps have mitigated the effects of driver discrimination, systemic disparities persist, affecting overall service quality for Black passengers in racially segregated areas.