On a night like Dec. 31 — when more people than usual are concerned with avoiding drinking and driving — companies like Uber can expect to make big money. Uber Newsroom disclosed stats that more than two million rides were provided on New Year’s Eve.

However, in an unexpected downside many passengers woke up the next morning sick — not just from a hangover, but the realization of the amount of money paid for their Uber ride.

While it has been reported in some cities that the surge rates reached 8.8 and 9.9 times the company’s normal rate, Uber Newsroom reasoned that 60 percent of customers were not affected by surge pricing on New Year’s Eve. Users flooded social media with enraged posts and screenshots of their trip totals via platforms such as Twitter.

Among the numerous complaints was a shared hashtag: “#BoycottUber.” I am not saying Uber was wrong to raise its fare pricing for a busy night — it was a smart business move — however, making that move has sacrificed the loyalty of many customers. Although Uber notifies users of the surge rate and fare prices before a ride is requested, many feel they were scammed and overcharged for safe rides.

Seen from the outside looking in, there are many solutions to the Uber surge rate controversy: First, people could have not requested a ride, knowing and seeing the raised prices. Second, customers could have taken a cab or other form of transportation. Third, drivers could have chosen to moderate drinking in order to drive.

However, those who were affected by the Uber over-pricing are people who may have used Uber often and never experienced this situation before. Several customers felt they were not prepared for the increase of prices and were completely blind sided.

One possible solution on Uber’s behalf could be to institute an alert system which would determine a set surge rate for each customer’s area and alert customers of this change 24 hours in advance of the surge taking place.

Drivers would be held to specific rates and customers would have the advanced notice they desire put in front of their eyes at a time when they are significantly more likely to be sober. This could act as a way to ensure all parties have an equal understanding and set of expectations.

Did Uber taint the reputation of the “safe ride” tactic city officials have tried so hard to institute across the country?

Drinking and driving not only puts oneself at danger, but it also endangers other drivers on the road. It’s amazing to see so

many people put the effort forth to make safe drinking decisions; however, the question up for debate is whether we will continue to keep ourselves safe as a country at the price of $200 for an eight-mile ride home or — as reported by CBS News — a $97 fare for a two -mile ride.