Hillpods Rider Guidelines

Objective: These guidelines are designed to ensure a safe, respectful, and high-quality experience for both Riders and Drivers using the Hillpods platform.

1. Respect and Conduct

Riders are expected to maintain a high level of respect and professionalism during all interactions.

• Respect for Drivers and Vehicles: Treat Drivers and their personal vehicles with respect. Avoid verbal abuse, harassment, or any discriminatory behavior (based on race, gender, religion, etc.).

• No Smoking or Vaping: Smoking, including e-cigarettes or vaping devices, is strictly prohibited in the Driver's vehicle.

• Vehicle Cleanliness: Avoid damaging or excessively soiling the vehicle. Any costs associated with cleaning, repair, or damage caused by a Rider may be charged directly to the Rider’s account.

• Number of Passengers: Ensure the number of passengers does not exceed the legal capacity of the vehicle, as determined by local law and the Driver.

2. Safety and Security

Rider safety is paramount. We encourage the following behaviors:

• Seat Belts: All Riders must wear a seat belt at all times, as required by law.

• Child Safety: It is the Rider's responsibility to provide and properly secure appropriate child safety seats, as required by law. Drivers may refuse a ride if proper child restraints are not available.

• Alcohol and Drugs: Riders who are intoxicated must remain respectful. The consumption of illegal drugs or open containers of alcohol in the vehicle is strictly prohibited. Drivers may terminate a ride if they feel unsafe or if Rider conduct violates local laws.

• Reporting: If you experience or witness unsafe driving, harassment, or any illegal activity, immediately report it to local law enforcement and then to Hillpods Support.

3. Booking and Trip Management

• Accuracy: Always confirm your pickup and destination locations are accurate before booking.

• Wait Time: Be ready at the designated pickup location at the estimated arrival time. Excessive waiting time may result in additional charges or the Driver cancelling the trip (which may result in a cancellation fee).

• Route: While Drivers typically follow the GPS route, Riders may request a reasonable deviation, but the final decision on the safest and most legal route rests with the Driver.

4. Payment and Fees

• Fares: Fares are calculated based on time, distance, and demand. The final fare shown in the app is binding, subject to any changes due to Rider-requested route deviations or excessive wait time.

• Tipping: Tipping the Driver is voluntary and should be done via the app or in cash.

• Cancellation Fees: You may be subject to a cancellation fee if you cancel a ride after the grace period, or if the Driver cancels the ride due to your failure to appear (no-show).

5. Lost Items

Hillpods is not responsible for personal items left in a Driver's vehicle.

• If you leave an item, please use the app to contact the Driver.

• Drivers are required to make a reasonable effort to return lost items, but may charge a reasonable retrieval fee to cover the time and cost involved.

Note: Violation of these guidelines may result in temporary or permanent suspension from the Hillpods platform. These guidelines are supplementary to and incorporated by reference into the Hillpods Terms and Conditions.

Hillpods Driver Guidelines

Objective: These guidelines set the standard for professionalism, safety, and compliance required of all independent Drivers operating on the Hillpods platform.

1. Vehicle and Safety Standards

Maintaining a safe, well-maintained vehicle is a prerequisite for using the Hillpods platform.

• Vehicle Requirements: Your vehicle must meet all local regulatory requirements, including being correctly registered and permitted for commercial use (if required).

• Maintenance: Vehicles must be kept clean, free of damage, and in excellent operating condition. All safety features (brakes, lights, seat belts, tires) must be fully functional.

• Inspections: Drivers must comply with any official or platform-mandated vehicle inspections, providing necessary documentation upon request.

• Seat Belts: Drivers must ensure they and all passengers wear seat belts at all times.

2. Professional Conduct

Drivers are expected to provide a courteous and professional service.

• Non-Discrimination: Drivers must accept and serve all Riders regardless of race, religion, gender, disability, or sexual orientation. Discrimination or refusal of service based on these characteristics is strictly prohibited.

• Respectful Interaction: Maintain a polite and professional demeanor. Avoid controversial or political discussions unless initiated by the Rider.

• Route and Navigation: Drivers should follow the route provided by the in-app GPS navigation unless a Rider requests a reasonable, safe, and legal alternate route.

• Privacy: Never share a Rider's personal information, pickup/drop-off location, or trip details with third parties.

3. Legal Compliance

Drivers must adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.

• Licensing and Documentation: Drivers must possess a valid driver’s license, commercial vehicle permits, and proof of required insurance at all times. All documentation provided to Hillpods must be accurate and up-to-date.

• Driving Laws: Drivers must strictly follow all traffic laws, including speed limits, signs, and signals. Reckless driving is grounds for immediate termination from the platform.

• Zero Tolerance for Impairment: Hillpods maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of drugs or alcohol while operating on the platform. Any violation will result in immediate and permanent account deactivation.

• Mobile Use: Use of a mobile device for navigation or platform interaction must be done legally and safely (e.g., hands-free or mounted).

4. Managing Trips and Fares

• Acceptance: Drivers should only accept trip requests they intend to fulfill promptly.

• Cancellation: Drivers should only cancel a trip after arriving at the pickup location and waiting for the Rider for the minimum required time (as specified in the App), or if the Rider violates safety guidelines or local laws.

• Accurate Fares: Fares are calculated by the Hillpods platform. Drivers must never solicit cash payments outside of the platform (unless specifically for an authorized tip) or attempt to manipulate the fare system.

5. Dispute Resolution and Reporting

• Disputes: While Hillpods facilitates communication, Drivers should attempt to resolve minor disputes with Riders professionally. For serious issues, Drivers should immediately contact local authorities and then Hillpods Support.

• Incidents: All serious incidents, accidents, or criminal activity occurring during a ride must be reported to Hillpods within 24 hours.

Note: Failure to comply with these guidelines may lead to warnings, temporary suspension, or permanent deactivation of your Driver account, as outlined in the Hillpods Terms and Conditions.