Essential Information for Rideshare Drivers
Understanding Transport Legislation
Make sure that you understand and are following all rules and regulations related to transportation providers set out by the New Zealand Government.
There are numerous regulations including:
- Land Transport Driver License Rule 1999
- Land Transport Rule: Operator Licencing 2017
- Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004
There are various details here that do apply specifically to rideshare drivers as well as other elements that will not be applicable at all.
For instance, it’s important to note that you can use taxi stands if they are available to hire. However, you must also have a fully approved security camera to pick up a non-pre-registered customer. You will also need to note to the customer that the camera is there.
As well as this, you are not able to add any extra charges once a fare has been agreed before the start of a journey.
You can refuse a fare if you are worried about your personal safety and you should never allow a passenger to consume alcohol in your vehicle. There is a fine of up to $300 if you are caught.
You can use transit lanes unless there is a sign stating otherwise and you must always take the route that will provide the fastest journey for the passenger.
Some laws and regulations are more complex such as whether you can use your mobile phone while operating your vehicle. As well as this, child restraints are only required if you already have one in your vehicle.
If there are child locks on your car, you must explicitly state this with a red sticker. You can also choose to turn the child locks off.
You can use load zones for dropping off passengers unless there is a sign and you should always have a completely unobstructed view.
What Type Of Employment Agreement Will You Have With A Rideshare Service?
As a driver of a rideshare service such as Uber, you will be totally independent. Your provision of transportation will be between you and the passenger. In other words, your rideshare does not have full control over you and will not take legal responsibility if there is an issue.
You won’t even be referred to as an independent contractor. Instead, you are an “independent provider.”
Uber and other rideshare services should simply be considered a lead generation tool.
It’s important to note that you will be responsible for paying your own taxes and arranging your own insurance. Fare payments will be made directly to you after passing through the rideshare company so that they can remove their services fee.
Getting A High Rating
There are numerous ways to ensure that you get the right rating as a rideshare driver. You should remain friendly and professional while avoiding contacting the customer more than you need to.
You should drive to the customer as soon as they arrange for your service and help with any luggage while keeping navigation prompts off.
This should shine a light on some of the key information you need as a rideshare driver.
Rideshare Tax Made Easy with Taxi Tax
With Taxi Tax you have no reason to fear the IRD, we have the expertise to get the most out of your tax.