The online car service, embroiled in allegations that one of its drivers in India raped a passenger, is sued in its home state.
California prosecutors have sued Uber over the company’s background checks of drivers and other allegations.
The lawsuit by https://www.mirandarightslawfirm.com/blog/blow-not-blow-question/ adds to the popular start-up’s worldwide legal woes after allegations that one of its drivers in India raped a passenger.
It accuses the company of misleading consumers by claiming it conducts “industry-leading” background checks on its drivers.
Prosecutors say the claim is false since the company does not fingerprint its drivers.
“Uber continues to misrepresent and exaggerate background checks on drivers,” Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey said.
“It’s not our goal to shut them down. What we’re saying is their advertising is false.”
Uber uses information supplied electronically by its applicant drivers for background checks.
But applicants can get around those checks by using stolen or false identifications, the lawsuit claims.
An Uber spokeswoman defended the company’s role in California, but did not address the specific allegations.
“Uber is an integral, safe, and established part of the transportation ecosystem in the Golden State,” Eva Behrend said in a statement.
“We will continue to engage in discussions with the district attorneys.”
Uber is also being sued for charging passengers an additional $4 for trips to and from San Francisco International Airport – even though the company lacks a permit and neither Uber nor its drivers pay the airport fee.
Taxis must pay for a permit to do business at San Francisco’s airport and other major airports in the state.
Uber is also coming under fire in other locations.
Delhi authorities have arrested an Uber driver after a female passenger said he had assaulted her.
On Tuesday, police in Chicago said they were investigating allegations a driver there had raped a customer.
The city of Portland, Oregon, sued to stop Uber from operating, Spain has barred the company’s operation, and Thailand said it was illegal for private cars to be used as taxis.
