Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law | November 20, 2024 | Car Accidents
Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation. Driving for these platforms has provided many with a flexible way to earn income, but not everyone qualifies to drive. Drivers with a bad driving record may be disqualified from driving Uber or Lyft to keep passengers and others safe.
Uber and Lyft’s Requirements for Drivers
Both Uber and Lyft have specific eligibility requirements to promote passenger safety. These requirements include minimum age limits, vehicle standards, and a driving record check.
Generally, both Uber and Lyft require drivers to have:
- A valid U.S. driver’s license
- Driving experience
- A minimum age of 25 years old (with some exceptions)
- Current vehicle insurance and registration
Both companies conduct background checks on new drivers. These include a review of the applicant’s criminal background and driving record.
What Constitutes a “Bad” Driving Record?
Uber and Lyft screen each applicant’s driving record through a DMV check.
Each platform has different requirements for drivers, but a combination of the following may be disqualifying:
- Major traffic violations such as driving under the influence, reckless driving charge, or driving with a suspended license
- Multiple moving violations for speeding, failing to yield, or running red lights
- A history of at-fault accidents that caused injuries or property damage
Uber and Lyft use third-party background check services to assess an applicant’s driving record against their specific policies. They also conduct periodic background checks and may suspend or deactivate drivers whose records no longer meet their safety standards.
Potential Exceptions
Depending on other factors, a person with a “bad” driving record may still qualify.
These factors include:
- The time passed since the violation: Uber and Lyft typically consider your recent driving history more serious. A single speeding ticket 10 years ago may not disqualify an applicant like three speeding tickets in the last year.
- The severity of the violations: Not all traffic violations are equally severe. A few minor speeding tickets may not carry as much weight as a reckless driving charge.
- Appeals and reapplying: Drivers who were previously disqualified for a bad driving record may have an opportunity to reapply after a certain time or appeal the decision.
Review Uber and Lyft’s specific policies online for additional information.
Why Do Uber and Lyft Have Strict Driving Record Standards?
The primary reason Uber and Lyft enforce strict driving record standards is to protect passenger safety. A driver with a history of traffic violations or reckless behavior may be more likely to cause an accident, putting passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers at risk. Uber and Lyft must also protect their reputation and minimize potential liability if drivers with poor driving records cause accidents on their platforms. This could make Uber or Lyft liable for the damage, especially if they failed to conduct a thorough driving record check.
What If An Uber or Lyft Driver Causes an Accident in Orlando, FL?
You may have grounds for a personal injury claim if you or a loved one are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident. You could be entitled to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
You may also be able to argue that Uber or Lyft were negligent in allowing a driver with a poor driving record to work on their platform. This is where an Orlando personal injury lawyer’s expertise can be valuable.
Injured in An Uber or Lyft Accident? Contact an Orlando Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Uber and Lyft have strict requirements for drivers to keep passengers and others on the road. A driver can typically not drive with a “bad” driving record, especially if it includes recent or serious violations. If you have been injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, an Orlando Uber or Lyft accident lawyer can help you navigate the challenge of proving negligence and pursuing fair compensation. Schedule a free consultation today.
Contact a Car Accident lawyer at Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law Today
For more information, please contact Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law to schedule a free consultation. We have five convenient locations in Florida, including Orlando, Palm Bay, Melbourne, Cocoa, and Titusville.
Orlando, FL Office
964 Lake Baldwin Ln Ste. 200, Orlando, FL 32814, United States
407-801-3000
Palm Bay, FL Office
4620 Lipscomb Street N.E Suite #3K, Palm Bay, FL 32905, United States
321-677-5964
Melbourne, FL Office
1600 W Eau Gallie Blvd #205j, Melbourne, FL 32935, United States
321-450-7134
Cocoa, FL Office
717 S Cocoa Blvd STE 203, Cocoa, FL 32922, United States
321-449-8042
Titusville, FL Office
4527 S Hopkins Ave Suite B, Titusville, FL 32780, United States
407-801-3000