In November 2017, California tightened its rules and regulations on the ride-sharing industry. The new law mandates Transportation Network Companies (TNC), like Uber and Lyft, to have annual background checks administered on their drivers. This is in line with a state legislature in 2016 that prohibits companies from hiring people with a history of certain crimes.
San Francisco’s Dilemma with TNCs
In 2016, San Francisco officials investigated two of the biggest ride-sharing services in the industry, Uber and Lyft, and issued subpoenas questioning the companies’ “records on driving and business practices.”
According to news reports, the action aimed to aid city officials in determining if the TNCs have become a public nuisance in the Bay Area’s urban and financial center. This is the same area where Uber and Lyft faced legal battles over registration, drivers’ routes, and other ride-sharing practices. The investigation also aimed to confirm whether or not the companies have created dangerous traffic conditions on city roads and whether or not the services of these TNCs are accessible to low-income neighborhoods and people with disabilities.
As a result, Uber settled a civil enforcement case and agreed to adjust its business practices to properly accommodate the people of California.
California Enforces Stricter Rules on TNC
In the same year, California passed a legislature that requires TNCs to have their drivers undergo local and national criminal background checks. The new rule was made effective in 2017, which companies claim to have tightened the existing regulations.
The California bill prohibits TNCs from hiring people who have been convicted of violent crimes, terrorism-related felonies, sexual crimes, and any other from a specified list of felonies within the previous seven years.
Personal Injury Claims Against TNCs
The emergence of TNCs like Uber and Lyft brought an entirely new category of personal injury claims. Ride-sharing has become such a popular mode of transportation in California that for many residents, it has become the primary means of getting around the city.
With ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, just like other public utility vehicles, you are putting your safety in the hands of the driver. If a driver is reckless and negligent on the road and causes you serious injuries, you as a passenger have the right to sue for damages.
Personal Injury Lawyers in California
Proving liability is what we do best at Haffner Law. We investigate your case with the level of thoroughness and attention to detail you deserve.
We take away the hassles of dealing with insurance companies involved in your case. We understand your situation and know that the last thing you need is to answer troublesome calls from insurance adjusters.
As your Uber accident lawyer in LA, we will help you keep your head up throughout the process. We will handle all the calls so you may continue with other priorities. Focus on other things that matter to you and let us take care of the rest. We will negotiate and fight on your behalf until you receive the compensation you deserve.
Talk to us today. Contact us at 213-514-5681.
(This is an attorney advertisement by Joshua Haffner)
