Uber draws the line: Riders could get banned for flirting, misconduct

SAN FRANCISCO: For the very first time, Uber has updated its community guidelines which could mean that if passengers indulge in misconduct such as flirting or vandalism, the transportation service could ban them from using it altogether.

The news set of rules come after incidences of sexual misconduct and rape came to surface in America and UK. Most recently, a California driver associated with Uber was accused of raping an unconscious 17-year-old girl. Following which, the international online transportation company has come forward with a new set of rules which if violated by passengers, could get them banned from using the service altogether. 

"Most riders show drivers the respect they deserve. But some don’t—whether it’s leaving trash in the car, throwing up in the back seat after too much alcohol or asking a driver to break the speed limit so they can get to their appointment on time. This kind of poor behavior is not OK, which is why we will take action against passengers who are rude, abusive or violent," read a post on Uber's website. 

The rules also forbid passengers from flirting with each other or indulging in any misconduct with the driver or vice versa. 

"As a passenger, if you need to make a phone call, keep your voice down to avoid disturbing your driver or other riders. And don’t touch or flirt with other people in the car. As a reminder, Uber has a no sex rule. That’s no sexual conduct between drivers and riders, no matter what," read the post. 

And if you really don't want to be expelled from the Uber network, try not to indulge in such acts. 

"Damaging the car, breaking or vandalizing a phone, intentionally spilling food or drink, smoking, or vomiting due to excessive alcohol consumption," read the post. "Asking overly personal questions, using verbal threats, and making comments or gestures that are aggressive, sexual, discriminatory, or disrespectful."