Global car-pooling firm Über's drivers face five-figure fines from Monday
Monday, October 6, 2014 @ 1:09 PM
A CAR-POOLING network operating worldwide which has fallen foul of Spanish taxi drivers and authorities will come under the microscope from Monday in Madrid.
Über, which started in the USA and now operates in several European countries, allows ordinary people planning to travel in their cars to get in touch with others going in the same direction and share the ride.
Far cheaper than travelling by taxi, Über operators get to cut the costs of their petrol or even make an income, and it reduces emissions and traffic.
All operators are required to show at least third party insurance cover so that any injuries to passengers are covered, must have a clean licence and their vehicles must be well-maintained and fully legal.
Deputy minister for transport in the Greater Madrid region, Borja Carabante, has promised taxi drivers to clamp down on and fine Über operators starting from this coming Monday, October 6.
Vehicles will be stopped and inspected, and Über itself has been given 10 days to supply 'all necessary documents' in order to 'prove it is operating within Spanish law' – a deadline which expired yesterday (Friday).
Read more at thinkSPAIN.com