DNC Chicago 2024: How to avoid falling victim to taxi scams during the Democratic National Convention.

CHICAGO (WLS) — Ride demand, wait times and higher costs of getting around during the Democratic National Convention. The I-Team investigates the rise in ride-share prices and discovers how to avoid taxi scams.

Especially near the United Center or McCormick Place, where other DNC events will be held.

“If you’re going to use Uber, just plan accordingly, check the price before you agree, and if you don’t have to leave or can share a ride, do it,” said passenger Laura Rodriguez.

Chicago Acting Commissioner of Business and Consumer Protection Ivan Capifali says passengers should prepare

“That’s why we encourage consumers to compare prices – if they’re going to a certain place and the prices are high or dynamic, it might be worth waiting a bit and coming back to the app,” Capifali said.

You can also save money by scheduling your rideshare in advance. Uber says that while riders “can expect longer than usual wait times and higher prices on event days…” it is in touch with drivers to help them plan and make the most of their time. We have not yet heard back from Lyft.

“If I see an increase, I’ll wait it out or go somewhere else if I have to,” Alicia Harvey said.

The Taxi app may be a lower-priced option, since most fares are meter-based and regulated by the city. The Curb taxi app tells the I-Team there should be more taxis on the road during the DNC.

You can also hail a taxi and avoid taxi app fees — but be careful. The city says taxis you hail at big events may try to rip you off by charging a higher, flat rate with the meter turned off.

“If they get in a taxi and the driver says, ‘I’m not turning on the meter,’ and he tells them the price, what do you say? That’s a signal not to get in that car because flat fares are illegal in Chicago,” Capifali said.

Also make sure to avoid fake taxis. Real ones have license plates with an orange background and blue letters and plates ending in “TX”

Also look for new red stickers or older medallions on the hoods of taxis. And don’t make a hasty decision.

Also, make sure the taxi number and identification are on the back of the taxi, and when paying, use the payment system located on the back seat of the taxi. Taxi drivers are not allowed to swipe cards on their phones.

Riders should also be aware that rideshares and taxis will have designated drop-off and pick-up areas at both DNC locations.