In San Jose, a rider tipped $270. In Tampa, Fla., the gratuity hit $400. And in New York, a satisfied passenger handed over a $1,000 tip.
With numbers such as that, it’s no wonder how Lyft drivers have reached $500 million in tips.
Lyft drivers are clearly benefiting from the generosity of their riders, as the ride-sharing company has made a special note of just how much passengers have tipped those who have driven them from place to place.
Just 10 months ago, Lyft said its drivers had reached $250 million in tips. In a company blog post, the company noted that the tips amount now stands at $500 million. That’s an incredible climb considering it took Lyft drivers four years to reach the initial tip total of $100 million.
Lyft said part of the reason it believes tips have boomed of late is because the company has offered the ability to give tips as a function within its ride-hailing app–which is something Lyft pioneered in the ride-sharing market before its main rival, Uber.
To mark the milestone, Lyft gave a handful of its drivers who are also aspiring musicians a visit from singer Demi Lovato, tickets to a concert of hers in Miami, and free studio time to work on their music.