EnviRyde Terms of Use
Please read carefully the following Terms of Service upon which EnviRyde Inc. offers you access to and use of our service. These terms contain important information regarding your legal rights, remedies, and obligations, as well as certain exclusions and limitations.
These Terms of Service apply to all services provided by EnviRyde Inc., a company committed to reducing carbon emissions by connecting Drivers and Passengers through carpooling arrangements. The platform enables drivers with empty seats to share their ride with passengers traveling along the same route, minimizing environmental impact. These services (referred to as the “Services”) are made available through our website at www.enviryde.com and through any mobile applications or subdomains where EnviRyde operates (collectively referred to as the “Service”)
By using the Service, you acknowledge and agree to be legally bound by these Terms of Service (“Terms”). Whether or not you register an account, these terms govern your access and use of the platform, including all EnviRyde content and interactions with other members. If you do not agree with these terms, you have no right to access or use the service. Violating these terms may result in civil or criminal penalties.
1. Nature of the Service
The EnviRyde platform provides an online marketplace that connects Drivers (individuals offering available seats in their vehicles) with Passengers (individuals looking for rides) to arrange shared trips for the purpose of carpooling. These arrangements are conducted in a strictly non-commercial capacity. The primary objective of the service is to reduce travel costs and contribute to carbon emission savings by promoting sustainable travel.
By using the platform, you acknowledge that EnviRyde acts solely as an intermediary, facilitating these interactions, and is not responsible for the agreements made between Drivers and Passengers. EnviRyde does not manage or control the conduct of any Driver, Passenger, or Member on the platform and disclaims any liability related to their behavior to the maximum extent permitted by law.
EnviRyde is not an insurer, agent, or broker and does not guarantee the performance or conduct of any member using the platform. You are encouraged to exercise your own judgment and caution when interacting with others on the platform.
1.1 Carbon Emission Savings:
One of EnviRyde's core objectives is to reduce carbon emissions by promoting carpooling as a sustainable mode of travel. Every completed trip helps reduce your environmental footprint, and passengers can track their personal carbon emission savings through the platform. EnviRyde provides estimates of the emissions saved based on trip distance and vehicle occupancy, but these are for informational purposes and do not constitute a guarantee of environmental impact.
1.2 Suggested Fare:
EnviRyde offers a suggested fare algorithm to assist Drivers and Passengers in determining a fair and equitable price for each trip. The suggested fare is calculated based on factors such as distance, trip duration, time of day, and average costs of similar trips. This fare is intended as a guide, and both Drivers and Passengers are free to negotiate and set their own price within the platform. However, all fares must comply with the local legal framework for non-commercial carpooling services.
2. Common Definitions
- "Member" refers to any registered user of the EnviRyde service, including both Drivers and Passengers.
- "Driver" is a user offering available seats in their vehicle to share with Passengers for a pre-arranged trip.
- "Passenger" refers to a user booking a seat in a Driver's vehicle for a scheduled trip.
- "Account" is the personal profile created by a Member to access and use the EnviRyde service.
- "Trip" is a journey between a defined origin and destination at a specific time, including details such as pick-up and drop-off points, available seats, and space for personal items. Trips are posted and managed by Drivers.
- "Booking" refers to the act of reserving and paying for a seat on a Trip using the EnviRyde service. The payment includes the agreed Trip Share and any applicable fees.
- "Request" is a post made by a Passenger, specifying their travel needs (origin, destination, and date), looking for a Driver with a matching Trip.
- "Trip Share" refers to the amount of money agreed upon and paid by a Passenger to a Driver, covering the Driver's costs for the journey without resulting in profit. The purpose of the Trip Share is to reduce travel expenses for both parties.
- "Suggested Fare": A recommended price generated by EnviRyde's algorithm, taking into account trip distance, time, and environmental impact.
- "Booking Fee" is an additional service charge applied to the Trip Share, paid by the Passenger when booking a seat.
- "Payment" refers to the total amount paid by a Passenger for a Trip, including both the Trip Share and the Booking Fee.
- "Payout" refers to the total Trip Shares collected from Passengers and paid out to the Driver via their selected Payout Method after the completion of the Trip.
- "Payout Fee" is a service fee deducted from the Driver's Payout for using the EnviRyde platform to facilitate the trip.
- "Payout Method" refers to the payment system through which Drivers receive their earnings, such as Direct Deposit or PayPal.
- "Cancellation Allowance" grants Drivers the ability to cancel a maximum of one Trip with approved Passengers or one approved Booking every six months without penalty.
- "Taking a ride," "Carpool," or "Carpooling" refers to the act of sharing a journey in a vehicle between a Driver and one or more Passengers, where Passengers pay a Trip Share to the Driver.
- "Carbon Emission Savings": The reduction in carbon dioxide emissions achieved by using EnviRyde's carpooling service compared to individual driving.
3. Changes to the Terms of Service
EnviRyde reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify the Service or these Terms of Service at any time, including changes to the Trip Share, Booking fee, or any other feature. Any such modifications will be communicated either through posting on the platform or via direct notification to Members. We will also update the "Last Updated" date at the top of these Terms of Service. By continuing to access or use the EnviRyde platform after modifications are posted, you indicate that you agree to be bound by the updated Terms. If any changes are unacceptable to you, your only option is to stop using the Service
4. Your Responsibilities
When using EnviRyde, Members must verify their account through email or phone number. However, EnviRyde does not verify the conduct, morality, or background of any Member. Therefore, it is your responsibility to exercise judgment and caution when interacting with others on the platform. It is recommended that Members communicate directly with potential Drivers or Passengers through the Service, just as they would with any new acquaintance in real life.
Interactions with Other Members
You are solely responsible for your interactions with other Members. EnviRyde is not liable for any harm or damage resulting from these interactions. If any member behaves inappropriately or violates our guidelines, we reserve the right to monitor and restrict their access to the Service.
Dispute Resolution
Since EnviRyde acts solely as a facilitator between Drivers and Passengers, we are not liable for disputes between Members. In the event of a disagreement or dispute, you release EnviRyde (and our affiliates) from all claims, demands, and damages, whether known or unknown, arising out of or related to the dispute. This includes both actual and potential damages unless forbidden by local consumer protection laws.
4.1 Your Conduct
As a Member of the EnviRyde platform, you are expected to act responsibly and exercise good judgment at all times. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Driving Safely: If you are a Driver, you must drive carefully, follow the rules of the road, and ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition, having passed any required inspections. You must not drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substances that impair your ability to operate a vehicle.
- Respect for Others' Rights: You must respect the rights of other Members and third parties. This includes respecting intellectual property, privacy, publicity, and contractual rights. Any violation of these rights is strictly prohibited.
- Proper Use of Information: Information obtained through the EnviRyde platform must not be used for any unauthorized purposes, including but not limited to marketing, harassment, or any form of personal exploitation.
- Integrity of the Platform: You may not interfere with or damage the platform in any way. This includes avoiding actions that may compromise the system’s functionality, integrity, or security. EnviRyde is built on good faith, and all Members must act in ways that maintain that trust.
- No Spam: The use of the EnviRyde platform to distribute spam or any unauthorized promotional content is prohibited.
- Respectful Interaction: All Members must treat others with respect. Harassment, abuse—whether verbal or physical—or stalking is not tolerated. You must interact with other Members in a courteous and respectful manner, fostering a positive environment for all.
- Non-Commercial Use: Unless expressly agreed upon with EnviRyde, the Service must not be used for any commercial purposes. This platform is intended for private, cost-sharing carpooling, and not for profit-making ventures.
- Registration Integrity: Members must register only for themselves and not on behalf of other individuals unless explicitly permitted. The account created is personal and must not be transferred to or shared with others.
- Legal Capacity: By registering or using the EnviRyde platform, you represent and warrant that you are at least 18 years old and have the legal capacity to enter into a contract. You must be able to form legally binding contracts to use the Service.
- No Assistance to Third Parties: You must not assist any third party in violating these Terms of Service or any other guidelines established by EnviRyde.
4.2 Reporting Misconduct
If you believe that another Member has acted inappropriately, including but not limited to offensive, violent, or sexually inappropriate behavior, or has engaged in any disturbing conduct, you must report this individual immediately. Reports should be made both to the appropriate authorities and to EnviRyde by contacting us. While we take all reports seriously, making a report does not obligate EnviRyde to take any action or assume any liability.
5. Use and Access of the Service
EnviRyde is strictly limited to providing a platform for Drivers and Passengers to arrange carpooling services in a private capacity. The Service is not to be used for commercial or professional purposes unless expressly agreed by contract with EnviRyde. Drivers and Passengers using EnviRyde are expected to comply with these terms:
No Profit-Making:
Drivers using the platform may not profit from any Trip. The purpose of the Trip Share(formerly "Contribution") is to cover travel expenses such as gas and vehicle wear and tear. The Service is designed for cost-sharing and environmental impact reduction, not to generate profit.
Suggested Fare:
EnviRyde offers a Suggested Fare algorithm, which provides recommended Trip Share amounts based on the distance, estimated fuel costs, and other factors to ensure fairness. Drivers and Passengers may choose to follow this suggested rate, but they are free to negotiate their Trip Share as long as it aligns with the non-profit nature of the Service.
No Additional Commercial Services:
Drivers may not offer additional services for profit to Passengers, such as package delivery, extra drop-off points, waiting time, or picking up additional passengers unless these arrangements have been agreed to through the Service in advance.
Pre-Agreed Trips:
All trips, including pick-up and drop-off points, must be arranged and agreed upon through the Service before the trip begins. Drivers cannot pick up or drop off passengers from locations not agreed to beforehand.
No Speculative Trip Posting:
Drivers are not permitted to post speculative trips. They must only post trips if they are certain about their travel plans, to ensure reliability for Passengers.
Insurance Responsibility:
Drivers are reminded that using EnviRyde for commercial or professional purposes may invalidate their insurance policies. EnviRyde’s liability is limited as described in these Terms of Service. It is up to each Member to ensure they comply with non-commercial requirements to avoid breaching their insurance policies.
EnviRyde does not provide transportation services; it acts solely as a facilitator for members to connect with each other. EnviRyde does not interfere with trip routes, destinations, or timings. The carpooling agreement is strictly between the Driver and Passenger. EnviRyde is not a party to these agreements and is not liable for any issues arising from interactions or bookings made between Members. EnviRyde is also not responsible for any disputes regarding Bookings or Payments between Members. Any breach of these Terms of Service may result in the immediate suspension of the Member's account, and the Member may be restricted from accessing the Service in the future.
6. Driver’s License and Insurance Requirements
6.1 Driver’s License Requirements
To become a Driver on the EnviRyde platform, you must meet the following Driver’s License criteria:
- Possess a valid, full, and non-expired Driver’s License that matches the name registered in your EnviRyde account.
- Learner’s, provisional, or restricted licenses are not accepted.
- Any license with restrictions due to legal infractions will disqualify a Driver from using the platform.
EnviRyde reserves the right to suspend or review a Driver’s account if the license provided does not meet the required standards. While we accept most standard domestic and international driver’s licenses, EnviRyde cannot guarantee acceptance of all foreign licenses.
6.2 Insurance Requirements
Drivers must maintain valid vehicle insurance and are responsible for verifying that their policy covers the operation of their vehicle during carpooling trips facilitated through the EnviRyde platform. It is critical that both Drivers and Passengers confirm with their insurance provider that carpooling is covered under their policy.
- For Drivers using company-owned vehicles, it is essential to ensure that their insurance policy covers any non-employee Passengers riding in the vehicle during a carpool trip.
EnviRyde emphasizes that Drivers are fully responsible for any uncovered claims arising from accidents or incidents that may occur during trips. Should an accident happen where the vehicle is used for carpooling without proper insurance coverage, EnviRyde is not liable for any damages or costs. EnviRyde also reserves the right to suspend a Driver’s account if any suspicious or unauthorized commercial activity is detected, which could violate the terms of personal vehicle insurance.
7. Access to the Carpool Service
To access the EnviRyde carpooling service, Members must create an account. The following conditions apply:
Account Creation:
Members can either log in via social media (Facebook, Google) using Open Authentication methods or register directly with their email and password.
- Users who register must verify their email address and provide accurate personal details, including their legal first and last name, a clear profile photo, and additional information such as age and gender.
Confidentiality and Security:
Members are responsible for keeping their login credentials confidential. If a Member becomes aware of unauthorized use of their account, they must notify EnviRyde immediately.
Eligibility:
EnviRyde services are intended for individuals 18 years or older who have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts. We reserve the right to revoke access to the platform at any time if we deem a Member to be ineligible or non-compliant with these Terms of Service.
EnviRyde reserves the right to withdraw, modify, or restrict access to the Service or specific destinations at its discretion. Exceptions to these policies may be made on a case-by-case basis.
8. Booking and Payment
All payments between Passengers and Drivers are handled via EnviRyde’s secure payment system. Drivers cannot request cash payments or accept alternative methods for payment outside the platform. Upon a successful booking, the payment will be held by EnviRyde until the trip is completed. Booking fees may apply, and these are transparently included at the time of booking.
9. Cancellations:
- Passenger Cancellations: If a Passenger cancels a booking more than 24 hours before the trip, they may be eligible for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours of the trip may incur a penalty fee, and the Driver will receive a portion of the Trip Contribution.
- Driver Cancellations: Drivers are encouraged to only post trips they are certain they will complete. Frequent cancellations by a Driver may result in account review or suspension.
10. Currency
All payments and payouts through the EnviRyde platform are processed in CAD (Canadian Dollar) for users in Canada and USD (United States Dollar) for users in the United States. As EnviRyde expands to other countries, local currencies will be integrated into the platform to ensure seamless transactions.
EnviRyde facilitates secure online payments, and no cash or offline payments are permitted. The platform uses a third-party secure payment gateway to handle all transactions. To receive payouts, Drivers are required to link their bank accounts, where funds will be deposited directly in their local currency, ensuring safe and efficient transfers.
11. Payouts to Drivers
11.1 Payout Methods
EnviRyde supports two payout methods for Drivers:
Bank Account: Drivers can link their bank accounts for direct deposit. Bank account payouts are processed in the currency based on the driver's country of operation—either CAD (Canadian Dollar) for Canada or USD (United States Dollar) for the United States.
- EnviRyde is not responsible for ensuring the accuracy of bank account details provided by the Driver. Incorrect details may result in failed or lost payouts that cannot be reversed.
- Additional verification, such as government-issued ID, may be required for security reasons or fraud prevention.
PayPal: Drivers can link their PayPal account for payouts. PayPal payouts are processed in both CAD and USD, depending on the country. An exchange rate may apply if PayPal is used for cross-currency transactions.
- EnviRyde is not responsible for ensuring the correct PayPal account details. Incorrect PayPal details may result in unrecoverable payouts.
11.2 Payout Process
Once a Trip is completed, Passenger payments enter a clearing period of four (4) days. During this time, Passengers have the opportunity to dispute the Booking. If no disputes arise within the clearing period, the Trip Share (minus the Booking fee) is processed for payout.
Payouts to Drivers are processed once a week on Tuesdays. Drivers must ensure their Payout Method is valid and updated before the payout date. If a Driver's account does not have a valid Payout Method within 365 days of the Trip completion, the payout will be forfeited, and the Trip Share will belong to EnviRyde.
11.3 Payout Processing Time
Once the payout is processed:
Bank Accounts: Payouts typically take 2-8 business days to reflect in the Driver's bank account.
11.4 Conditions for Drivers to Receive Payouts
To receive a payout for a Trip, the Driver must:
- Arrive at the pickup point at least five (5) minutes before the agreed time.
- Inform Passengers of any modifications to the Trip details (timing, pickup or drop-off locations). If a Passenger does not agree to these changes, they have the right to cancel their Booking without penalties.
- Not leave the pickup location before the agreed departure time and attempt to contact any Passenger running late.
- Safely drive the Passengers to the agreed-upon destination.
- Operate under non-commercial, cost-sharing conditions as defined by EnviRyde.
Failure to meet these conditions may result in a Passenger refund and/or suspension of the Driver’s account.
11.5 Payout Fee
EnviRyde does not charge any Payout Fees for regular payouts, which are processed once a week on Tuesdays. However, if a Driver requests a payout before the scheduled payout period, EnviRyde will charge a 15% processing fee on the payout amount. This fee is to cover the administrative costs of processing the payout ahead of the regular cycle.
12. Wallet Feature
EnviRyde offers a Wallet feature that allows Drivers and Passengers to securely store and manage funds within the platform. This feature provides flexibility and convenience by enabling users to accumulate funds from completed trips and use them for future bookings.
How it Works:
- Adding Funds: Passengers can top up their Wallet using a linked payment method (e.g., credit card). These funds can be used to book trips without needing to enter payment details for each transaction.
- Earning Funds: Passengers can top up their Wallet using a linked payment method (e.g., credit card). These funds can be used to book trips without needing to enter payment details for each transaction.
- Request a Payout to their bank account (as per the standard payout schedule on Tuesdays).
- Use Wallet Funds to book future trips as a Passenger, seamlessly participating in the EnviRyde carpooling ecosystem.
- Early Payout Option: If a Driver wishes to withdraw their earnings before the scheduled weekly payout, they can initiate an early payout from their Wallet. This will incur a 15% processing fee for handling the early transfer.
- Balance Management: Users can easily track their Wallet balance and transaction history within the app. Notifications will alert users of low balances or when a payout is processed.
13. Policies on Cancellations, No-shows, and Disputes
13.1 Driver Cancellation Policy
A Driver may cancel a Trip without any approved Passengers at any time without penalty. However, Drivers are allowed a Cancellation Allowance, which permits them to cancel one Trip with approved Bookings or one approved Booking every six months without penalty.
- If a second cancellation occurs within six months, the Driver’s account may be put under review, and future cancellations could lead to account suspension.
- Upon cancellation of a Trip with approved Passengers, Passengers will receive a full refund, and a cancellation review will be added to the Driver’s profile. EnviRyde may investigate the cancellation to determine if it counts toward the Driver’s Cancellation Allowance.
13.2 Driver No-show Policy
If a Driver fails to show up for a Trip with approved Passengers, this may result in immediate suspension or termination of their account.
- EnviRyde will investigate no-shows to determine whether they were legitimate or mistakes. If deemed legitimate, a no-show review will be added to the Driver’s profile.
13.3 Passenger Cancellation Policy
- If a Passenger cancels a Booking more than 24 hours before the Trip, they will receive a full refund minus the Booking Fee.
- If the cancellation occurs less than 24 hours before the Trip, the Driver will receive 50% of the Trip Share, and the Passenger will be refunded 50%.
- No refund is granted if the Passenger cancels after the agreed departure time or fails to show up. The Driver will receive 100% of the Trip Share.
13.4 Passenger No-show Policy
If a Passenger fails to show up for a Trip, the Driver will receive 100% of the Passenger’s payment, and a no-show review will be added to the Passenger’s profile. Repeated no-shows may result in account suspension.
13.5 Disputing Cancellations, Bookings, or Payments
Drivers or Passengers have four (4) days after the Trip's scheduled departure to dispute any Bookings, cancellations, or payments. Disputes can be raised through the EnviRyde review system. After this period, payments will be processed as usual, and refunds will no longer be available.
14. Safety and Compliance with Law:
EnviRyde may disclose user information to law enforcement or other government authorities if required by law or if necessary to protect the safety of users or the public. EnviRyde will attempt to notify affected users unless prohibited by legal or security considerations.
15. Privacy and Data Security:
Please review our Privacy Policy for information on how we handle user data, including how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.
16. Modifications to the Terms:
EnviRyde reserves the right to update or modify these Terms of Use at any time. Changes will be posted on the platform, and continued use of the service implies acceptance of the revised terms.
17. Liability and Disclaimers:
EnviRyde is not liable for any interactions between Drivers and Passengers, including but not limited to disputes, accidents, or missed trips. Users are encouraged to exercise caution and good judgment when arranging trips through the platform. By using EnviRyde, you agree to these Terms of Use and acknowledge that EnviRyde provides a platform for cost-sharing carpooling, not for-profit transportation.