If you drive passengers for a living, a drunk driving allegation could cost your job. Taxi companies and rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft will not test you for alcohol before you take the wheel. Yet, they may take action if a customer alleges you have been drinking.
A recent report suggests some customers are abusing these policies to get a free ride. They make a false complaint about you to the company in the hope of a refund. They could say you were rude, or they might accuse you of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Police may act if a passenger says you are driving while drunk
Uber encourages passengers to not only report drunk driving to them but to call the police. If the police responded and pulled you over, a client who is still in your vehicle might make up a story to avoid getting in trouble with the cops themselves. They might say you were swerving all over the road, failing to stop at lights or going too fast, all of which could lead the police to believe you were drunk.
A false allegation could cost you your job, as most driving companies have a zero-tolerance policy, and many take clients at their word rather than check the facts. If the police get involved, it could cost you much more. DUI charges can lead to fines, insurance increases and jail time. They can also result in a license suspension and a criminal record, both of which will make it harder to replace the job you unfairly lost.
There are several ways to defend against false drunk driving charges. Finding out more will be crucial to picking the most suitable option and protecting your future.