Uber's background checks are about to get tougher, though the company isn't saying exactly when or how. The New York Times reports that, following its own earlier investigation that found Uber had allowed drivers with a range of felony convictions, including some violent ones, to keep picking up riders if their convictions were more than seven years old, the company is moving to close that window. People briefed on the plan say Uber will now permanently bar drivers convicted of violent felonies, sexual offenses, and child or elder abuse or endangerment, regardless of how long ago those crimes occurred.
Policies on offenses like harassment, weapons charges, and restraining-order violations are also under review. The shift comes amid rising legal and political pressure over rider and driver safety, including a proposed California ballot measure that would make Uber and its ride-hailing rivals legally liable for sexual assault, as well as new Virginia legislation tightening background checks—both backed by Uber.
In December, the Consumer Watchdog nonprofit cautioned Uber users that, based on the Times investigation, perhaps they should consider taking Lyfts instead. The company maintains, however, that 99.9% of its rides are incident-free. "Safety isn't static," an Uber spokesperson said in a statement cited by the paper, adding that Uber is continually evolving its approach. A recent federal jury ruling ordering Uber to pay $8.5 million to a passenger who said she was raped by a driver could influence thousands of similar lawsuits now pending.
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