I think there's a very good argument for Uber having to treat the drivers as employees. They are dependent on Uber and Uber sets the amount they will earn. They would more likely be contractors if the drivers set their own rates and Uber would choose who they wanted to drive. Doesn't Uber also try to restrict who they can drive for too? Additionally, Uber's business relies entirely on the labor of the drivers. Uber also supervises the employees in-part by the rating system.
In terms of buying their own equipment - this is not an uncommon thing in many trades. Mechanics have to buy their own tools. Many machinists buy their own tools.
Truth is there is a lot of gray area here but I can see interpretation both ways. I do hope the drivers in California take this opportunity to organize as quickly as possible and begin collective bargaining with Uber.
I'd set Uber's value at less than one billion if this happened.
I think there's a very good argument for Uber having to treat the drivers as employees. They are dependent on Uber and Uber sets the amount they will earn. They would more likely be contractors if the drivers set their own rates and Uber would choose who they wanted to drive. Doesn't Uber also try to restrict who they can drive for too? Additionally, Uber's business relies entirely on the labor of the drivers. Uber also supervises the employees in-part by the rating system.
In terms of buying their own equipment - this is not an uncommon thing in many trades. Mechanics have to buy their own tools. Many machinists buy their own tools.
Truth is there is a lot of gray area here but I can see interpretation both ways. I do hope the drivers in California take this opportunity to organize as quickly as possible and begin collective bargaining with Uber.
I'd set Uber's value at less than one billion if this happened.