Ridesharing services Uber and Lyft have become a popular and effective transportation option in major metro areas and cities across the country over the past few years. Their popularity among users, however, has been tempered by scrutiny and criticism from lawmakers, safety advocates, and drivers. Two rulings from earlier this month help illustrate a few of the controversial issues affecting these companies.

• In a case from San Francisco, California, two U.S. district judges ruled to require a jury to decide whether Lyft and Uber drivers are independent contractors or employees. Both companies are facing lawsuits filed by drivers who claim they are employees and therefore should be reimbursed for expenses. Currently Uber and Lyft consider drivers independent contractors and require them to handle their own expenses. Both cases may become class-action lawsuits.
• In Texas, a U.S. district court judge ruled to not throw out a lawsuit involving taxi companies in Houston and San Antonio that claim Uber and Lyft allegedly operate illegally and steal customers. Although the lawsuit was not thrown out, all complaints stated by Uber and Lyft were dismissed, with the exception of a claim that the ride-sharing services were misleading the public about insurance policies and payment models.

Both cases help illustrate the new legal complications and issues created by ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft are relatively new startups, and the laws regarding their operations are not fully established. In Texas, for example, the rules for ride-sharing are throughout the state are still being developed.

In cases where accidents and injuries occur, the complex laws and issues surrounding ride-sharing services can complicate things for victims who are seeking compensation. At The Daspit Law Firm, we are available to help anyone who has been harmed in an Uber or Lyft accident learn more about their rights and how to navigate this new legal terrain.

If you have questions about Uber or Lyft accidents, contact The Daspit Law Firm to discuss your case personally with a lawyer. Initial consultations are free.