Uber issues guidelines for Kenya, East Africa customers

Uber East Africa general manager Loïc Amado during an interview on May 22, 2017. PHOTO | DIANA NGILA | NMG

What you need to know:

  • The guidelines provide directions on safety, ferrying of minors, respect, personal space and feedback.
  • Uber insists, for instance, that all children under 18 years must be accompanied by a guardian or a parent.
  • On safety, the company insists that passengers must always wear their safety belts and not overload.
  • Personal space and respect between driver and passenger is another issue where no flirting or sexual conduct or touching or hitting each other is allowed.

Uber taxi hailing service has released guidelines for their customers, whose breach will see one lose their access to the services.

In a statement, Uber said that while drivers have strict rules of conduct, the new guidelines for passengers will facilitate good relationships between the driver and the passenger.

“This is important because when drivers use Uber they do more than simply drive. They are sharing their own car, space and time with passengers.

"And while most riders show drivers respect, unfortunately this is not always the case,” said Uber.

This is the first time Uber is issuing the guidelines, which will be applicable in Kenya and the East African region as well.

The guidelines provide directions on safety, ferrying of minors, respect, personal space and feedback.

Accompanied minors

Uber insists, for instance, that all children under 18 years must be accompanied by a guardian or a parent.

Minors are also not allowed to own Uber accounts. The company also warned that if the child is found to be using a third party account, that account will be deactivated on the second warning.

On safety, the company insists that passengers must always wear their safety belts and not overload.

They should also not force the driver to speed beyond legal limit or bring alcohol and banned substances into the vehicle.

“Getting to a destination safely is a top priority,” said Uber.

Personal space and respect between driver and passenger is another issue where no flirting or sexual conduct or touching or hitting each other is allowed.

“Although friendly conversation doesn't do any harm during a trip, respect should be upheld at all times. Both riders and drivers should give each other space and should not make each other feel uncomfortable," Uber said.

Vehicle damage

Unruly behaviour such as damaging the vehicle, using bad language, being aggressive or discriminatory can also get one banned from using the app, while drivers must always keep their vehicles in a comfortable set for passengers to ride in with ease.

“Uber does not discriminate against gender or race and any rider that does not share the same sentiments is not welcome on the app,” the company said.
While they insisted on the importance of feedback from the customers on their services, Uber also said they will follow up any reported incidents and involve the authorities if any of the guidelines have been violated, Uber said.

“Upon learning of an infringement Uber will contact the rider to investigate. Should the concern involve a serious offense such as involving violence, sexual misconduct, harassment, discrimination, or illegal activity the account can be deactivated and authorities will be notified.

“Uber strives to create a safe and pleasant environment for both riders and driver-partners.

"These guidelines are important and are implemented for the benefit of all those that use Uber,” said Uber.

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