Are Uber Drivers Allowed To Be On The Phone?

You may think it is part of their job, but Uber drivers should not be on their phone while they are transporting their clients and deliveries. Uber drivers using their phones while driving is without a doubt distracted driving, and the act itself surprisingly encompasses a lot of harmless activities such as eating, drinking, adjusting the stereo, and even talking to your passengers. As a result, Uber and Lyft drivers have to walk a fine line to ensure they don’t get pulled over and ticketed while on the job.

Are Drivers Allowed to Talk on the Phone With a Passenger?

According to Uber’s guidelines for drivers, there is no rule that prohibits drivers from talking to passengers, as it is sometimes necessary for drivers to find and pick up riders in heavily congested areas such as airports. 

However, according to state laws such as California’s Vehicle Code Section 23123.5, talking on the phone while driving a vehicle falls under distracted driving unless the device is specifically designed and configured to allow voice and hands-free operation. For those who are 18 and under, using the phone is absolutely prohibited for any reason. 

In fact, professional emergency service operators such as ambulance drivers are exempt to this rule as it may inhibit their work duties. Failure to comply with this law will result in a base fine of $20 on the first offense and $50 for every repeat offense.  

What Is Uber and Lyft’s Policy on Talking on the Phone?

While Uber and Lyft do not state an official policy regarding phone usage while driving, they state that drivers should be aware and up-to-date of their state’s vehicle codes and laws. Both Uber and Lyft recommend that drivers should not take personal phone calls during a trip as it can create an unfriendly environment for the passenger.

However in regards to passengers talking on their phones, Uber and Lyft do state the importance of passenger etiquette in order to create a safe and friendly environment for both the driver and passenger.

Is It Legal for Uber Drivers to Use Their Phone for GPS?

It is completely legal for Uber drivers to use their phone for GPS, however, there is a very fine line and if they are not careful Uber and Lyft drivers can be pulled over and cited for using their phone as a GPS. 

While a phone’s GPS is a common tool used for every Uber and Lyft driver, they still must abide by their state’s vehicle code laws. Cell phone usage while driving will vary from state to state, however, using hands free mounts and attachments that do not obstruct their field of vision will allow drivers to legally use their phones while driving.

Can Lyft and Uber Drivers Use the App While Driving?

According to Uber and Lyft guidelines, drivers are instructed to use the app on their phones only if they are placed in hands free mounts and stationary attachments. This is to limit potential accidents that may arise when drivers use their phone in their hands. 

In addition, both Uber and Lyft apps feature GPS navigation and a seamless user interface to ensure that their drivers do not switch in between apps when they are picking up and dropping off passengers.  

Should Uber Drivers Be On the Phone While Driving?

Phones are the most vital tool for an Uber driver and without it they are not able to efficiently pick up and drop off passengers. However, rideshare drivers should only be on the phone when they are at a complete stop and should not use their phone while driving as it can potentially lead to car accidents, fines, and citations. If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident and are seeking legal representation, then  contact us today by calling (213) 927-3700 or by filling our contact form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced and talented legal team.