Slashdot Mirror
Massachusetts Examining Disability Access For Uber, Lyft
An anonymous reader writes: Uber and Lyft have been dealing with a host of legal and regulatory issues, and the Massachusetts attorney general's office is adding one more: disability access. No formal action has been taken, but the office has contacted the companies to see how they handle equal access. Uber says it often speaks with advocates about accessibility, and less than a week ago they introduced uberASSIST, which connects riders with drivers who are specifically trained to assist those with disabilities. Still, the inquiry seems to have been spurred by questions from disabilities rights groups, not to mention ongoing lawsuits. "[T]he National Federation of the Blind of California accused Uber in a lawsuit last year of discrimination by refusing to transport guide dogs. A San Francisco federal judge has said the case can proceed. ... In Texas, Jennifer McPhail sued Lyft last year, accusing the company of not having a wheelchair accessible vehicle operating in Austin."
With millions then clearly it has been a waste of time, and more importantly money. Also, sponsors must ensure that they invest into brands with a good reputation and ethical beliefs in line with the values of their own organisation. It's no coincidence that when a company or even an individual, like golfer Tiger Woods, act inappropriately Nike Free pas cher. companies often rush to withdraw their sponsorship. Ultimately they do not want to be seen as supporting negative actions as it could tarnish their own reputation. But any sponsorship must be to a brand that is relevant to the product or service the company is trying to promote. If Vauxhall sponsored the Teletubbies it would be completely pointless, as the children watching are not going to buy their cars. Brand sponsorship is essentially a method of focused consumer targeting, and it's vital that the brand chosen will gain the attention of the right consumers. If done properly, brand sponsorship can strengthen the position of all parties involved.