In a preliminary injunction, a judge has ruled that Uber and Lyft must classify its drivers as employees.
It’s free, every week, in your inbox.
Well, that certainly clarifies things.
Legally speaking, at least.
Uber and Lyft have continually fought this legislation, and have done so using a number of strategies.
Back in May, the ride-hailing companies claimed that its drivers do not contribute to achieving their core missions.
Uber defends itself with marketing materials that have only gotten more vague as time has gone on.
In 2018, Ubers mission statement read: Ubers mission is to bring transportation for everyone, everywhere.
In that case, its undeniable that its drivers are vital to delivering this mission.
However, it has since been changed to: ignite opportunity by setting the world in motion.
Which is as clear as mud.
How anyone can contribute to that goal is beyond me.
As such, driversare and should betreated like employees.
Whats more, Ubers drivers dont seem to earn enough to make it a viable job, anyway.
Dubal says that the Uber CEO conflates independent contractors with flexibility.
Drivers do not want to be employees, full stop,a spokesperson for the company said.
Well immediately appeal this ruling and continue to fight for their independence, they added.
So where does this leave us?
The companies arebeing sued in Massachusetts for the same misclassification of workersthat its facing in California.
SHIFTis brought to you by Polestar.Its time to accelerate theshiftto sustainablemobility.
That is why Polestar combines electric driving with cutting-edge design and thrilling performance.Find out how.
Story byMatthew Beedham
Matthew is the editor of SHIFT.
He likes electric cars, and other things with wheels, wings, or hulls.
