Over here in Astoria, we’ve been huge Lyft fans for a long long time. Basically since they day Lyft arrived on the scene. We happen to live not-so-close to the subway (ok about a 15 min walk which I actually like AND we happen to have a building shuttle that takes us there). But! Sometimes – we miss it, it’s raining, we’re late for school or need to get to the airport. And unlike other curbsides in NYC where you can walk outside and hail a cab, we cannot. A few years ago, car app services changed the game for us borough people.
But one thing has always blown my mind in NYC: You don’t’ need car seats in cabs (but of course, a responsible parent driving does). That means you can legally get into a car with a stranger without a car seat, and it’s okay. But is it, okay? When Max was tiny, we would just strap in his stroller/car seat in one. But as he got a little older (I’m talking like two years old still a baby), we didn’t have that on us and the toddler cab riding was like a game of Russian Roulette (hence, we didn’t take cabs much).
But as of Fall 2017, Lyft has changed this scenario for NYC parents. Now, you have the option to request a Lyft WITH A CAR SEAT in it.
Lyft Car Seat Option
We put it to the test on the way to the airport. I opened my Lyft app, and there it was – And low and behold – our smiling driver showed up with a (CLEAN) car seat in a protective case in the trunk. He popped it out and installed it in about one minute, and we were on our way.
Does it cost more?
Yes – slightly – but just like ordering a special Lyft PLUS costs a little more for six seats, you pay a little more for the car seat option.
Does it take longer?
Yes, usually these cars aren’t as prevalent as basic Lyft drivers, so allot a few more minutes into your trip (but come on – it’s going to still be 10 min or under – don’t go all expecting instantaneous arrivals on me).
Have you downloaded the app yet?
If you’re not using Lyft yet – you should be! Use my code “STEPHANIE39” when you sign up and you’ll get $15 to ride in return! SIGN UP HERE!
Is it in other cities yet?
For now, it is just available in NYC but keep an eye out for updates from Lyft!
In partnership with Lyft.
