Ride-hailing firm Uber has been rocked by a constant stream of scandals and negative publicity in recent years. In what seems like a constant string of missteps, Safe Traffic Netherlands (VVN) advocated for Uber ban in Amsterdam last week, post the series of fatal accidents in a span concerning just six weeks.
Not below 21!
It was reported that Uber drivers enjoyed a less strict rule than taxi drivers connected to a regular taxi company. In a way putting an end to it, Uber has agreed to raise the age of taxi drivers in the Netherlands from 18 to 21.
As per Uber’s latest rule, the company will only accept drivers with at least one year of experience. Moreover, drivers under the age of 25 must undergo a compulsory course in road safety organised by none other than VVN.
Risky age group!
Most risky age groups for dangerous driving behavior, “When the calf has drowned, the pit is filled, but it is positive that they are moving,” respond Rob Stomphorst from Safe Traffic Netherlands (VVN). According to VVN, 18 to 21 is the risk-bearing age group for dangerous driving behavior.
A sigh of relief!
As a gesture of goodwill, VVN is critical of the fact that the minimum age only applies to new drivers and not old or existing ones. According to Stomphorst, there is still a lot to be gained in the way work is organized for Uber: “These rides are now organized in such a way that you really have to hunt for rides, you have to keep an eye on that app.”
Faced backlash in some parts!
Launched in 2009, Uber operates in more than over 600 cities all over the globe. Founded by Garrett Camp, Oscar Salazar, and Travis Kalanick, the company has raised €12.4 billion so far. It has its headquarters in San Francisco in California, an engineering centre in Bengaluru in India as well as a regional office in Singapore.
The company did face backlash in some part of the world due to its disruptive business model which is kind of way ahead of existing vehicular regulations.
Stay tuned to Silicon Canals for more updates in the tech startup world.
Did you know you can post your job for free on our job board? If you require extra promotion, reach out to [email protected] for a discounted offer.
01
Upstream Festival is back for its sixth edition! 4 solid reasons to mark your calendar