The Future of Uber in YYC
By Diane Colley-Urquhart on November 19 2015
This past Tuesday, my Council colleagues and I have made the decision to move forward with the implementation of rule changes that will allow ride-sharing services – such as Uber – to operate in our city, increasing transportation options for Calgarians as a result.
City Council has directed Administration to draft new rules and report back to Council through the Taxi and Limousine Advisory Committee (TLAC) by February 22, 2016. The amendments will allow Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) such as Uber to offer private for-hire driver services legally in our city.
In the report presented to Council, Administration recommended a hybrid open / controlled entry system, which was unanimously supported by TLAC last week. By going this route, private for-hire vehicles can operate in Calgary if they meet the following minimum requirements:
- 1) Vehicles must be insured according to the Government of Alberta regulations;
- 2) Drivers must have a valid driver’s license that is deemed acceptable by the Province (such as a Class 4 license);
- 3) Drivers must pass a thorough and rigorous police background check; and
- 4) Drivers can only provide services through the use of a smartphone application. They would not be allowed to street hail or use telephone dispatch services. Additionally, taxis will be given flexibility in setting rates for trips, as long as the rides are arranged through a smartphone app.
While in the process of a resolution, as of today it is still illegal to drive for Uber. In the meantime, The City continues to inform drivers, passengers and the general public about risks involved in the current operation of private for-hire vehicle services.
The Government of Alberta also issued an advisory notice in response to the confusion regarding insurance liabilities when using the Uber service, noting that any third party involved in an accident, whether you are the driver or the fare, may not be adequately covered by their automobile insurance. The Province is working with the insurance industry on options to address insurance concerns. A solution is anticipated for Q1/Q2 of 2016 and I am confident that The City will continue to work towards a viable solution for all parties involved, but ensuring public safety is and always has been the top priority. If the Government is doing their part to ensure public safety, the expectation is that Uber must do that same.
Until the new bylaw is approved, the current Livery Transport Bylaw remains in effect and the operation of private for-hire vehicles remains a breach of the bylaw. If you have any questions or concerns please contact my office and let me know your thoughts. I also invite you to learn more by visiting Calgary.ca/taxi.
IMG SOURCE=http://www.calgarysun.com/2015/10/30/city-of-calgary-begins-uber-crackdown-officials-say-undercover-stings-against-drivers-are-ongoing?utm_source=hootsuite
