Expected gas price surge has rideshare drivers worried

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Some are concerned what the reinstated sanctions against Iran could mean for the price of oil and eventually gas.

The statewide average in Arizona is $2.90 a gallon, nearly ten cents higher than the national average. Meanwhile, some rideshare drivers say when the math is done, they can't make enough money to keep doing ride share if prices continue to climb.

Sherry Wilson says rising gas prices have really hurt her bottom line.

"When I first started, gas was only $2.20 a gallon," said Wilson. "Now, it's almost up to $3, depending where you shop. That makes a big difference."

Wilson's sister sister also drives for Uber to supplement her income, and says even before Tuesday's announcement, times were tight as ride share driver.

"I'm scared to death," said Patricia Brennan. "I depend on that extra money to pay for my car and for groceries and things like that."

The women say the flexibility and the money first drew them to Uber and Lyft, but the company doesn't pass on raises to drivers. High gas prices and low return on their time are now driving them away.