Agreement Establishes Requirements, Enhances Rider Safety
Dover, DE – DelDOT has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Uber to approve the operation of its transportation network company in Delaware. The agreement establishes requirements for Uber and drivers who use its platform to operate in Delaware, including background check requirements, minimum insurance coverage, and other standards to promote safe and responsible service.
“Uber offers a new, innovative, and in-demand model of providing public carrier services, and the effort to establish this agreement shows Delaware’s continued commitment to embracing the innovations of our new economy” said Governor Markell. “I applaud the work of our Department of Transportation and Uber representatives to give Delaware riders the opportunity to benefit from the Uber experience, and to provide employment opportunities for Delawareans who choose to partner with the company to provide rides.”
Transportation Network Companies (or TNCs), also referred to as Ride Share Companies, are a growing national trend in providing personalized transportation options via web-enabled devices, including smart phones. Companies like Uber have taken off in recent years as riders throughout the country and around the world have demonstrated a great demand for these services.
“With the leadership of Governor Jack Markell, DelDOT Secretary Jennifer Cohan and DMV Director Scott Vien, Delaware has signaled it embraces innovation and supports more choice and opportunity,” said Jon Feldman, General Manager for Uber. “We look forward to continuing to work together to create a permanent regulatory framework for ridesharing, connecting residents and visitors with safe, affordable and reliable rides and creating jobs along the way.”
Under the MOU signed with Uber, drivers authorized to use the company’s platform must also meet licensing and vehicle requirements and will be prohibited from picking up or soliciting riders from a designated street hail area, such as those located in front of train stations and airports. Uber will be subject to frequent comprehensive audits to ensure the company and its partnered drivers are fulfilling the requirements. Other TNCs would be held to the same standards if they wish to establish operations in Delaware.
“I am happy that the Department was able to come to an agreement with Uber on the terms of its operations here in Delaware. Transportation Network Carriers have the potential to provide the public with new options for transit, and this MOU ensures that those options are provided to Delawareans in a responsible way,” said DelDOT Secretary Jennifer Cohan.
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