On December 3rd the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) handed down a verdict involving two Uber drivers and whether they should be classified as employees or as independent contractors. This ruling will determine whether these people receive proper benefits and consideration from Uber, but it could also affect how you experience the ridesharing community.
Court Rules In Uber’s Favor
Uber has faced scrutiny all over the country about whether or not its drivers can be considered employees or independent contractors. The difference between the two designations would determine if the company was required to give certain benefits to these drivers based on the required levels in each state. Having to treat these drivers like employees would cut into Uber’s profit margins dramatically, so the verdict from the DEO has helped the company breathe a sigh of relief.
“The technology is novel and the economic transformation is important, but the law is straightforward,” says a statement issued by the DEO, “The transportation providers at issue here were independent contractors, not employees of Uber.”
What Does This Verdict Mean?
This means that the company doesn’t have to provide benefits or job protections to independent contractors, which could cause issues if you have an accident with one of these drivers. Luckily, the DEO has also stated that this ruling only applies to the two drivers who brought this case, but there are even more ridesharing cases that could affect your safety on the road.
Right now Colson Hick Eidson is leading a wrongful death case against the rideshare company Lyft, after one of its drivers collided with a South Florida motorcyclist. This case could be incredibly important in determining who is responsible for rideshare mishaps, so keep up-to-date on this case by following our blog, Twitter and Facebook.
