Ride-Sharing Terms of Service

Independent Analysis of Transportation Network Company Agreements

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About This Category

Ride-sharing platforms connect passengers with drivers through mobile apps. Their Terms of Service govern critical aspects including safety policies, liability limitations, fare disputes, and the relationship between passengers, drivers, and the platform itself.

Our attorneys have reviewed the complete Terms of Service for each major ride-sharing platform, evaluating consumer fairness across key criteria specific to transportation services.

4
Platforms Reviewed
55
Avg Score
Via
Best in Category

Platform Comparison

Platform Score Grade Key Concern Dispute Process
Via Best in Category 65/100 B- Fixed pricing model Email support
Bolt 58/100 C+ International jurisdiction issues In-app support
Lyft 52/100 C Broad liability waivers In-app + email support
Uber Lowest Rated 45/100 C- Mandatory arbitration In-app + arbitration

Key Findings Across Ride-Sharing Platforms

⚖️ Mandatory Arbitration

All major platforms require binding arbitration for disputes, with class action waivers. Opt-out windows exist but are typically 30 days and easily missed.

🚗 "Platform Not Transportation" Doctrine

Every platform explicitly states they are a technology company, not a transportation provider. This limits their liability for accidents, delays, and driver conduct.

💰 Dynamic Pricing Acceptance

Users agree to surge/dynamic pricing by using the service. Platforms reserve the right to change pricing without notice, and displayed estimates are not guaranteed.

📱 Data Collection Scope

Extensive location tracking, even when app is closed. Data shared with insurance partners, marketing affiliates, and potentially law enforcement without warrant in some cases.

Detailed Platform Reviews

Via

65/100
Grade: B- • Best in Category
  • ✓ Fixed pricing model
  • ✓ Clear service terms
  • ⚠️ Shared ride complexities
  • ⚠️ Limited service availability
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Bolt

58/100
Grade: C+
  • ✓ Generally lower base pricing
  • ⚠️ Estonian jurisdiction for disputes
  • ⚠️ Limited US consumer protections
  • ⚠️ Rapid market expansion risks
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Lyft

52/100
Grade: C
  • ✓ Clear cancellation fee policies
  • ⚠️ Broad liability waivers for injuries
  • ⚠️ Mandatory arbitration with opt-out
  • ⚠️ Surge pricing without caps
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Uber

45/100
Grade: C- • Lowest Rated
  • ✓ Comprehensive safety features
  • ⚠️ Aggressive mandatory arbitration
  • ⚠️ Extensive data sharing practices
  • ⚠️ Upfront pricing disclaimers
Read Full Review

📋 Methodology Note

Scores are based on my Consumer Fairness Index, which evaluates Terms of Service across multiple factors including readability, consumer rights preservation, data practices, refund policies, and dispute resolution fairness. Ride-sharing reviews additionally consider safety liability terms, insurance coverage clarity, surge pricing transparency, and driver relationship policies. All reviews are conducted by licensed attorneys and updated when terms change.

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