Uber and Lyft have become a popular way to get around in Louisiana cities such as New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Individuals must meet specific requirements to legally operate as a driver on these platforms. There are criteria for both drivers themselves and their vehicles.
These requirements are important if you are considering driving for a rideshare service. They could also be relevant if you get into an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver.
Uber and Lyft Vehicle Requirements in Louisiana
A vehicle must meet specific company and state requirements to be driven on Uber or Lyft.
These include:
- Vehicle age and condition: Uber generally requires vehicles to be 16 years old or newer. Lyft typically accepts vehicles that are model year 2009 or newer. All vehicles must be in good condition, free from cosmetic damage, and have four doors.
- Vehicle inspection: Louisiana requires annual safety inspections for all vehicles. Uber and Lyft require proof of passing a state or company-approved vehicle inspection.
- Vehicle registration and license plates: The vehicle must be registered in Louisiana. Registration must be current and match the Uber or Lyft driver profile information. Temporary plates may be acceptable for new vehicles, but only for a limited time.
- Insurance coverage: Drivers must carry auto insurance meeting Louisiana’s minimum liability limits. When logged into the app, drivers are covered by Uber or Lyft’s commercial insurance policies. These companies typically offer liability coverage at different stages of a trip.
These requirements ensure the safety of passengers, drivers, and other road users across Louisiana.
Uber and Lyft Driver Requirements in Louisiana
Drivers must meet several criteria before they can legally drive for Uber and Lyft in Louisiana:
- Age and driving experience: Uber requires drivers to be at least 21. Drivers under 25 need at least three years of driving experience, and just one if they are 25 or older. In most Louisiana markets, Lyft requires drivers to be at least 25.
- Driver’s license: Drivers must have a valid U.S. driver’s license. Louisiana law allows both in-state and out-of-state licenses.
- Background and driving record checks: Both companies conduct thorough background screenings. They check for violent crimes, sexual offenses, and DUI convictions. Driving records are also checked, and drivers should typically have a clean driving record with no major violations in the past 3 to 7 years.
- Required documentation: Drivers must maintain a valid driver’s license. They also need proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and inspections.
- Mandatory signage: Uber and Lyft require their logos to be displayed on the vehicle when in driver mode, especially when picking up riders.
These requirements ensure that Uber and Lyft drivers are qualified to transport passengers.
Why These Uber and Lyft Requirements Matter
Understanding these requirements is critical if you are in an accident or dispute with a rideshare vehicle in Louisiana.
If a driver does not meet the vehicle and driver requirements at the time of an accident, it may impact liability and insurance coverage. Victims injured by non-compliant rideshare drivers may have a stronger claim. Inadequate insurance, expired documents, or failed inspections can lead to personal liability for the driver.
The first step in a claim typically involves confirming that the driver and vehicle were in full compliance.
Contact a Baton Rouge, LA Car Accident Lawyer from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Driving for Uber or Lyft in Louisiana requires more than a clean car and a smartphone. Drivers and their vehicles must meet specific requirements to protect others. If you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, a Baton Rouge car accident lawyer can help.
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a [PRACTICE AREA] lawyer in [GEO], LA today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991