CHICAGO, Ill. – A new proposed bill in Illinois has raised concerns for ride-sharing companies Uber and Lyft, potentially forcing them to end their services in the state.
The bill would subject ride-sharing companies to the same liability as other forms of public transportation, treating them as “common carriers” and requiring them to meet a higher standard of passenger safety.
The proposal comes in response to concerns over rider safety, particularly after a 2017 incident involving a Lyft driver and passenger in Chicago. The victim argued that ride-sharing companies should be held to the same liability standards as common carriers. However, an appellate court previously ruled in favor of Lyft due to the specificity of the statute.
If passed, the bill could have significant consequences for both drivers and riders, potentially forcing Uber and Lyft to withdraw from the state altogether. While opponents of the bill argue that it could negatively impact business for ride-sharing companies, supporters argue that these companies should be subject to the same level of safety regulations.
According to a study conducted in May 2019, the use of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft in Chicago peaks on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as during weekday rush hour travel periods. The study analyzed 12 million trips during non-holiday periods, with 17 percent of these trips either originating or ending on the South,  Southwest Side, or West Side.
On average, a full-time Uber or Lyft driver can make between $40,000 and $60,000 per year before expenses, such as gas and car maintenance.
The fate of ride-sharing services in Illinois is now in the hands of the Senate, as the bill is awaiting consideration. The bill, known as House Bill 2231, has already passed the House with a 73-36 vote. The potential outcome could have significant impacts on the state’s transportation and economy, with the fate of ride-sharing services hanging in the balance.
