Earlier this month over Labor Day weekend, Uber and the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA) teamed up to combat the growing problem of fake rideshare drivers in Las Vegas. The crackdown targeted unlicensed individuals posing as Uber and Lyft drivers, posing serious safety risks to unsuspecting passengers.
According to John Foster, Chief of Enforcement for the NTA, the city has been seeing an increasing number of fake drivers, particularly those operating in black SUVs that resemble rideshare vehicles, as reported by Fox 5 News. Foster said that individuals could easily obtain a fake company placard and pose as rideshare drivers, adding that many of these unlicensed individuals are soliciting passengers without undergoing background checks or holding proper insurance. This is the first time Uber is collaborating directly with a state agency to tackle the issue of unlicensed rideshare drivers.
“There are large groups of individuals that are acting as Uber drivers without permits,” Foster told Fox 5 News. “That person will ask you if you want a ride or need a ride.”
Harry Hartfield, Uber’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, noted that the problem of fake rideshare drivers is particularly significant in Las Vegas due to the large number of tourists. Despite the Nevada Transportation Authority regulating 36,000 licensed drivers, many are choosing to ignore the rules.
Drivers caught offering illegal rides in Nevada will face vehicle impoundment and a $10,000 fine. Passengers are urged to always verify the driver’s identity and plate number through the app for their own safety.
