LYFT RIDESHARE ON THE WAY TO SHREVEPORT
For those that have bemoaned the fact that Shreveport does not have what many consider to be an amenity of the 21st century – prearranged rides – their prayers will soon be answered. Recently, Lyft purchased an area cell phone list and has sent out a barrage of texts encouraging phone owners to sign up to become a Lyft driver.
Touted as a “great way to be your own boss and earn extra cash,” the Lyft comprehensive Web site explains everything from how to become a driver to the fee structure for rides. The minimum requirements are age (21), one year of driving experience in the U.S. (three years if under the age of 23), a valid U.S. driver’s license, a four-door vehicle not older than 2011 and, of course, a smart phone. A clean driving record and criminal history are also a requirement. To get started, interested applicants must e-mail a copy of their driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance to Lyft.
The Shreveport City Council recently adopted an ordinance to regulate Lyft, Uber and similar companies, which are defined as a transportation network company (TNC). The network drivers use their personal vehicles to provide rides for a fee; taxicabs, limousines any other vehicles for hire are regulated by another chapter of the Shreveport city ordinances.
TNCs must pay an annual $2,500 permit fee and execute an indemnity and hold harmless agreement with the city of Shreveport for any incident that causes harm to a third party which arises out of the actions of the TNC or any of its drivers. TNCs must also pay a 25 cent per ride service charge to the city for rides originating in Shreveport. An additional $1 fee must be paid for rides originating from the Shreveport Regional Airport or the Shreveport Downtown Airport.
The ordinance also requires that the TNC Web site disclose to riders the fare calculation method and the option to receive an estimated fare before the rider enters the TNC driver’s vehicle. The TNC software app must display a picture of the TNC driver along with the license plate number of the motor vehicle to be used for the ride. And after completion of the trip, the TNC must transmit an electronic receipt to the rider showing the origin and destination of the trip, the total time and distance of the trip and an itemization of the total fare paid.
All fares must be paid with a credit card; cash payments are prohibited by the TNC ordinance, and TNC drivers may not solicit or accept cash.
The ordinance requires each TNC to adopt a zero tolerance policy regarding the use of drugs or alcohol by a TNC driver while providing prearranged rides or is logged into the TNC’s digital network. Additionally, the TNC must have on its Web site procedures for riders to register complaints about drivers whom the rider reasonably suspects was under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the course of the trip.
The Shreveport ordinance adopts the state statute’s minimum insurance requirements for TNC drivers of a million dollars for death, bodily injury and property damage. The TNC must provide a certificate of insurance to the city which must also name the city as an additional insured.
Riders schedule their rides with TNC utilizing mobile cell phone apps or through the TNC Web site. TNC riders can track the location of the driver and know with more precision the time of arrival of the car. Riders can also cancel rides, although a cancellation fee may be applied to compensate the driver for time and gas. Additionally, a no-show fee may be charged if the driver arrives, waits and attempts to contact the rider by phone or text message.
How soon Lyft will actually be up and running is an open question. Uber has said that the market is under evaluation, and it’s possible other TNCs will come to Shreveport in the coming months.
John E. Settle Jr. is an attorney who has practiced in Shreveport- Bossier since 1977. His columns have appeared in local publications for more than 15 years. He can be reached at 742-5513 or e-mail to: john@jesettle.com.
