If you’re a rideshare driver, your ability to earn an income depends on passing a background check. Unfortunately, we’re seeing a troubling new pattern: Checkr background checks misreporting cell phone violations as “minor driving with alcohol” charges.
This error has already shown up in multiple cases, most recently in Santa Clara County, California, and it’s causing drivers to be wrongfully deactivated or denied from driving for platforms like Uber and Lyft.
How These Errors Happen
Background check companies like Checkr often rely on automated data-matching systems that pull from state and local court databases. When those systems aren’t carefully maintained, mismatched records or flawed coding can cause traffic offenses to be categorized under the wrong heading.
In this case, instead of correctly reporting a non-criminal traffic ticket for phone use, the system classified it as a serious alcohol-related offense. That kind of mistake is not only unfair, it may also violate the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which requires background check companies to use reasonable procedures to ensure maximum possible accuracy.
Why This Matters
A simple reporting error can cost drivers their jobs, their income, and their reputations. Background checks are supposed to be accurate and fair. When companies like Checkr report false information, it can directly harm hardworking drivers.
Your Rights Under the FCRA
- Accuracy: Background check companies must ensure the information they report is correct.
- Right to Dispute: If something on your report is wrong, you have the right to dispute it and demand a reinvestigation.
- Compensation: If an error like this costs you a job, wages, or damages your reputation, you may be entitled to compensation.
What to Do If This Happened to You
If you were cited for a cell phone violation but your Checkr background check is showing an alcohol offense, or if you’ve been deactivated by Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare platform due to a background check error, take action:
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- Get a copy of your Checkr background check.
- Review it for inaccuracies. Look for misreported traffic tickets or alcohol offenses that don’t belong.
- Dispute the error with Checkr. Submit documentation of the correct violation.
- Contact a consumer protection attorney. If the error cost you driving privileges, wages, or opportunities, you may have a case under the FCRA.
We Can Help
At Francis Mailman Soumilas, P.C., we represent rideshare drivers and workers across the country who have been harmed by background check errors. If Checkr misreported your record, we’ll fight to get the error corrected and pursue compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.
Call us now at 1-877-735-8600 or fill out our form for a free case review.
Don’t let a reporting mistake take away your ability to work.