Uber and Lyft have specific requirements for drivers and vehicles to ensure passenger safety. In Louisiana, rideshare companies must also comply with state laws for transportation network companies. Understanding these requirements helps explain who may be liable when rideshare accidents occur.
Age and License Requirements for Rideshare Drivers
Uber and Lyft have specific age requirements for drivers that vary by platform and location. In Louisiana, drivers must generally be at least 21 years old, though some cities or vehicle categories may require drivers to be older.
Both companies require a valid U.S. driver’s license and proof of residency. Neither company accepts international driver’s licenses alone. Drivers must have a license issued by a U.S. state or territory. Licenses that are expired, suspended, or surrendered disqualify applicants immediately.
Driving History That Disqualifies Applicants
Both Uber and Lyft screen driving records through third-party services. Applicants will be denied for certain violations. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Three or more moving violations within the past three years, regardless of how minor those violations are
- Reckless driving
- Driving on a suspended license
- Fleeing the scene of an accident
- DUI or drug-related driving offenses
A hit-and-run conviction or certain felony offenses involving a vehicle may result in permanent disqualification from most rideshare platforms, depending on the nature of the offense and when it occurred.
Vehicle Standards
Vehicles must meet specific age and condition standards. Uber generally requires vehicles to be 16 years old or newer. Lyft requires vehicles to be 2010 or newer in most areas, but in New Orleans specifically, vehicles must be 2012 or newer.
In Louisiana, most passenger vehicles are subject to annual safety inspections, not inspections every other year. Some cities and parishes may impose additional requirements, so drivers should also review applicable local regulations.
Vehicle Requirements
All rideshare vehicles must have four doors and a minimum of five seatbelts. The vehicle must be free from major cosmetic damage. It should not have significant rust or commercial branding that could confuse passengers about the nature of the service.
Working windows, lights, locks, air conditioning, and seatbelts are mandatory. Vehicles with salvaged or rebuilt titles are not permitted. Motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and commercial vehicle types like taxis and limousines are also excluded.
Insurance Coverage Requirements
Louisiana law requires transportation network companies to carry liability coverage during active trips. The amount and type of coverage vary depending on the driver’s status at the time of an accident.
Generally, drivers will have:
- $50,000 bodily injury per person ($100,000 per accident) liability coverage when the rideshare app is on but waiting for a ride request
- $25,000 in damage to property when the rideshare app is on, but waiting for a ride request
- $1 million commercial liability coverage when a ride is accepted, or a passenger is in the vehicle
An important gap exists in Louisiana. Uber has opted out of providing uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in the state. The UM/UIM waiver is allowed under state law. If an uninsured driver causes an accident involving an Uber vehicle, passengers cannot rely on the rideshare company’s coverage for protection. They must turn to their own UM/UIM policies instead.
Background Check Process
Rideshare companies conduct background checks through third-party services that search national databases. These searches include the Department of Justice Sex Offender Registry, federal criminal records, and multi-state criminal databases. Local courthouse records are also reviewed.
Background checks are not a one-time screening. Both companies re-run checks annually and use continuous monitoring services that flag new criminal activity. Drivers who are arrested or convicted after approval may be removed from the platform.
What Happens When Requirements Are Not Met
When drivers or vehicles fail to meet requirements, determining liability after a car accident becomes complicated. If a driver was not logged into the app at the time of a crash, only personal insurance applies. The rideshare company has no responsibility for the incident.
Many personal auto insurance policies exclude commercial use entirely. Drivers who fail to disclose rideshare activity to their insurers may find their claims denied, leaving them personally responsible for economic and non-economic damages. Some insurers now offer rideshare endorsements that fill this gap for an additional premium.
Injured in a Rideshare Accident? Call Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers
If you were hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident in the Metairie, Louisiana, area, Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers can help you understand your options. Contact our office today for a free consultation with a Metairie car accident lawyer. Time to file claims is limited. Prompt legal advice helps you protect your rights.
We proudly serve Louisiana and it’s surrounding areas, including Metairie, Gretna and Kenner.
Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers
3500 N Hullen St Suite 17K
Metairie, LA 70002
(504) 323-6000
Our law firm is located near you. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 30.01245719602678, -90.15811234232851
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