Increasingly, people are making a living working gig jobs like driving for Uber or Lyft. These jobs provide workers with flexibility and autonomy they may not get elsewhere. However, there are some drawbacks.
For instance, some drivers report losing their jobs and much more because riders have falsely accused them of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Zero tolerance, high stakes
Companies like Lyft and Uber have zero-tolerance policies when it comes to drivers who drive under the influence. As such, they make it easy for passengers to report any suspicions or fears about a potentially impaired driver. In exchange, riders could have the cost of their ride refunded.
However, as this report notes, some riders are abusing this system by filing false complaints. And drivers are paying a hefty price. In many cases, the companies deactivate or suspend the drivers, which robs them of their livelihood.
The drivers who have been in this unfortunate position say that the companies fail to perform due diligence in investigating false claims.
Defending against false accusations
Whether you drive for a living or not, false accusations of impaired driving can be devastating. You could wind up losing your license, arrested and charged with a serious crime. If convicted, you face harsh penalties that could adversely affect you for years to come.
As such, it is imperative that you take steps to defend yourself against false DUI allegations, whether they come from someone in your backseat, a police officer or another motorist.
Such measures could include installing a dashcam in your car and making a record of the events surrounding a DUI stop. This information could prove that you were not impaired or that other parties made false accusations.
Because companies may not adequately investigate false allegations, it can be up to individual drivers to work with an attorney to defend against DUI charges. Indeed, in any situation involving wrongful drugged or drunk driving accusations, legal representation can be critical.
