Uber set new policy; No more front seat passengers

Ride-sharing firm Uber have set a new policy for all journeys, no longer permitting front seat passengers.

In a move to tackle the ongoing battle against the spread of COVID-19, Uber sent out the new policy to all drivers, a document seen by TaxiPoint, on Wednesday 27 May.

Because of the decision, those vehicles licensed to carry four passengers, such as Uber X, will now only be allowed to carry three, and an Uber XL will now only be permitted to carry up to five.

The policy also addresses the issue of a passenger attempting to enter the front of the vehicle at the start of a trip.

The document advises: "If a rider tries to get in the front seat or the number of passengers exceeds the new limit of your vehicle, politely explain the new back seat policy and advise the riders to either rebook an Uber XL or to request an additional vehicle for the extra passengers.

"We have informed riders of this change via email and in the Uber app, so they should know about the policy."

Uber went on to suggest the possibility of locking front doors to stop riders entering. If passengers do not comply with the new policy, drivers have been given permission to cancel the trip.

"This will result in a cancellation fee for the rider if applicable and these cancellations will not impact your Uber Pro staus," the company concluded.

Image credit: TaxiPoint