Uber Drivers Are Workers, UK Top Court Rules
Britain’s Supreme Court on Friday unanimously ruled that Uber drivers are workers rather than self-employed, in a landmark ruling that may have implications for the rest of the gig economy.
Uber drivers are currently treated as self-employed, meaning that by law they are only afforded minimal protections, a status the Silicon Valley-based company sought to maintain through continued court action.
Judgment has been handed down this morning by video link in the case of Uber BV and others (Appellants) v Aslam and others (Respondents) – UKSC 2019/0029 https://t.co/zyxdrYGKPRpic.twitter.com/ieYI7mQcQh
It’s been a long old journey for former Uber drivers James Farrar and Yasseen Aslam. But after a five year legal battle, the pair arrived at their chosen destination – a court ruling that drivers for the taxi app firm should be treated as workers rather than independent contractors.
It is a distinction which could have significant implications for the earning rights of Uber drivers, at a potentially heavy cost to the firm, which is fighting similar challenges around the world. The ruling could also have a marked effect on the wider gig economy, paving the way for similar claims that could come from online tutors, supply teachers or freelancers.