When a crash occurs involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, it’s easy for individuals who have been injured to quickly place blame on the driver. However, there are other factors that need to be considered that could put the company at fault as well.
Part of this means understanding what requirements there are for individuals to become a driver for Uber or Lyft. At the end of the day, if drivers are not properly screened, trained, or supervised, the company would be the responsible party.
Requirements Needed
Requirements for the vehicle: For Uber, the vehicle must meet certain year requirements that depend on city and have in-state license plates. The registration must also be current and meet the configuration for the type of Uber type they are.
For Lyft, there are more requirements, including the following:
- Vehicle year
- Current registration and in-state plates
- Sufficient tread on tires
- Functional windows and windshield wipers
- Seat belts for at least four passengers
- Front seat adjustments
- Climate control
Requirements for the driver: For Uber, drivers must be at least 21 years old or above, have three years of driving experience, and possess a clean driving record. Should they meet these requirements, they will still have to pass a background check before they’re allowed to drive for the company.
For Lyft, some of the requirements are intact, including the need for the driver to be over the age of 21 and have a clean driving record. However, for Lyft, there is only a one-year experience requirement, as well as the need for a valid insurance policy and a recently released smartphone.
If the driver does not meet the requirements or pass the background check, they should not be allowed to drive for either of these ridesharing companies. However, if proper screening is not done and the driver does not meet the requirements and causes a crash while operating for the company, both the driver and the company may be responsible for damages.
Our Santa Monica ridesharing accident attorneys at McGee Lerer recognize situations in which the company may be held accountable. We take the time to build the evidence your case deserves and represent you throughout the entire process.
Call us at (562) 270-0546 today if you’ve been injured by a negligent Uber or Lyft driver.