Are Minors Allowed to Use Ridesharing Apps?

Jun 19,2018

It is against Uber and Lyft’s policies for drivers to provide rides to unaccompanied minors. However, that isn’t stopping some teens from using the ridesharing services. And in many cases, parents are the ones calling the rides.

Against Company Policy

Calling an Uber or Lyft for a minor, or using the service as a minor, is not against any specific law. However, it is against the policies of both companies, and drivers are not permitted to give rides to unaccompanied minors. Moreover, users who are requesting rides for unaccompanied minors can lose their ability to use the apps. Regardless of these rules, ridesharing has become an increasingly popular trend among teens. As many families have busy schedules, parents might see Uber or Lyft as inexpensive and convenient transportation options for their kids.

Ridesharing not a Safe Option for Minors

But the reality is this can be unsafe. There have been several incidents involving ridesharing drivers and minors. And while ridesharing companies do conduct background checks on drivers, some safety advocates have been critical about the effectiveness of these checks. For instance, Yellow Cab president John Camillo says his company requires drivers to be fingerprinted, and the prints are checked by the FBI. In contrast, Uber drivers are subject to a background check that looks at their driving record and criminal history, which is conducted by the National Association of Professional Background Screeners.

Ridesharing services are a convenient and efficient way to get around, and new safety measures such as a tracking feature from Uber have made them safer. But that does not negate the fact that these companies do not allow minors to use the services without an adult present, and parents need to find safer transportation options for their kids.

“Parents need to follow the rules set by the ridesharing companies and find alternative transportation solutions for their kids,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.