In response to complaints from the public, City of Fernie council has issued a safety warning to residents regarding unlicensed commercial ridesharing services, often referred to as UBER.

Residents are advised B.C.’s current licensing system is overseen by the British Columbia Transportation Board, which regulates the commercial passenger transportation industry, including commercial ridesharing companies, operators and drivers. These regulations are in place to help ensure passenger safety, protect consumers and provide a reliable and stable business environment.

Some of the safety risks associated with utilizing unlicensed private vehicles for hire include lack of vehicle inspections, lack of commercial driver’s license and inadequate ICBC vehicle insurance.

Properly licensed operators must meet common safety standards for drivers and vehicles and have vehicle inspections performed every six months. A commercial driver’s license also ensures that the driver is qualified to operate a vehicle of this nature and meet higher driver medical requirements.

“These regulations are in place to protect public safety and anyone who may be approached by a private vehicle offering this service should consider the risks. Council is issuing this warning so that the public is forewarned, and any unlicensed driver’s offering this service are aware of the potential serious consequences of ignoring regulations,” warned Mayor Mary Giuliano.

The public is encouraged to report unlicensed commercial ridesharing service operators to the Passenger Transportation Board at 1-604-527-2198 or to the RCMP. More information on Commercial Ridesharing is available on the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure website.

City of Fernie

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