LA County DA Cracks Down On Rideshare Companies
PASADENA (CBSLA.com) — District Attorney's offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco have sent letters to popular rideshare companies requesting to discuss safe and legal practices, officials said Friday.
Lyft, Uber and Sidecar received separate letters requesting a meeting to discuss individual concerns surrounding safety issues and practices that may not be in accordance to state law.
Customers and drivers didn't seem to share city officials' concerns.
"I'm sure there's going to be the oddball problem, you know nothing is 100 percent safe, but I think it's a great deal," rider Dan Fleury said.
Dre Karas uses rideshare companies as a main form of transportation.
"This is just a good way to get around," he said. "Right now I don't have a car and public transportation isn't always accurate."
Even drivers who support stricter practices, believe rideshare is safe and legal.
"We're like your local designated driver," Uber driver Matthew said. "I feel like it's a safe ride for them and us. All the drivers have been background checked and screened."
Sidecar officials released the following statement:
"We strongly disagree with the assertion by San Francisco and Los Angeles County District Attorney Office's that connecting people for Sidecar Shared Rides is illegal. Shared Rides are great for California because they are safe and affordable, cut down on traffic congestion and reduce pollution. The District Attorneys are trying to enforce laws written for limousines, in an era before smartphones. Sidecar will continue to operate and expand Shared Rides."
The D.A.'s office said the companies have several weeks to meet with them and get compliant.
