Uber announced this week a joint fundraising campaign with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). 

MADD's Southern CA chapter focuses on eradicating impaired driving and preventing underage drinking.

According to the MADD website, the organization and Uber launched a campaign during Impaired Driving Prevention Month to raise funds and awareness for safer roads. From December 17, 2024, to January 3, 2025, riders nationwide can donate to MADD through the Uber app. Uber will match the first $250,000 in contributions, with proceeds supporting MADD’s programs, including prevention education, advocacy for stronger impaired driving laws, and victim services.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that the holiday season is one of the most dangerous times for drivers in the United States. Between 2018 and 2022, drunk driving led to 4,759 fatalities during December. In December 2022 alone, 1,062 lives were lost in alcohol-related crashes, with a significant proportion of these incidents occurring during nighttime hours.

A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research indicates that ridesharing services have reduced alcohol-related traffic fatalities in the U.S. by 6.1% and overall traffic fatalities by 4.0%. The research analyzed Uber’s proprietary data and found that these reductions were most significant during nighttime hours and weekends.

MADD's Southern CA offers free victim services such as support groups, assistance with legal processes, and guidance on accessing compensation programs. It operates Victim Impact Panels to educate offenders on the impact of impaired driving and collaborates with local law enforcement and legislative bodies to advocate for stronger traffic safety laws. The chapter hosts annual events like walks and campaigns to raise awareness and funds for its initiatives.

According to Uber's website, Uber California in Maryland offers convenient ride-sharing solutions allowing residents and visitors to get around effortlessly. The service includes various ride options such as UberX, Comfort, and UberXL catering to individual and group needs. It also supports pre-scheduled rides up to 90 days in advance for trips to airports like Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. Popular local destinations include Super Target, BJ’s Wholesale Club, and CVS/pharmacy.