Last updated: September 26, 2023
I. Introduction
A. Purpose of the Agreement
1. Agreement Overview: This Terms and Conditions agreement (the "Agreement") governs the use of the services provided by Solar Chauffeur ("Solar Chauffeur," "we," "our," or "us"). By accessing, using, or booking our transportation services, you ("User," "Rider," or "Customer") agree to abide by the terms and conditions outlined in this Agreement.
2. Nature of the Agreement: This Agreement serves as a legal contract between Solar Chauffeur and the User. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties concerning the use of Solar Chauffeur's services, including Smart Carts, Lithium Lifts, Capstone Caddy, and Airport Connection services.
3. Acceptance of Agreement: Your use of Solar Chauffeur's services constitutes your acknowledgment and acceptance of this Agreement. If you do not agree with any part of this Agreement, you must refrain from using our services.
B. Acceptance of Terms
1. Eligibility: Riders must meet the eligibility criteria defined by Solar Chauffeur to use our services. Riders must be of legal age to enter into a contract in their jurisdiction. Parents or legal guardians may book services on behalf of minors.
2. Consent to Terms: By accessing our services, you affirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in this Agreement. Riders who do not agree with these terms are not permitted to use Solar Chauffeur's services.
3. Changes to Agreement: Solar Chauffeur reserves the right to modify, update, or revise this Agreement at any time. It is the User's responsibility to regularly review this Agreement for any changes. Continued use of our services after changes have been made constitutes acceptance of the modified Agreement.
4. Contact Information: For questions or concerns regarding this Agreement or our services, please contact Solar Chauffeur at [Contact Information].
C. Effective Date
1. Commencement of Agreement: The Terms and Conditions of the Agreement shall become effective on August 17, 2023 .
2. Application to All Riders: This Agreement applies to all Riders who access or use Solar Chauffeur's services on or after the Effective Date.
3. Pre-Existing Riders: Riders who have previously used Solar Chauffeur's services and continue to do so after the Effective Date are bound by the terms and conditions outlined in this Agreement.
II. Service Overview
A. Service Description
Solar Chauffeur provides a range of transportation services designed to meet the needs of our Riders, including but not limited to Smart Carts, Lithium Lifts, Capstone Caddy, and Airport Connection services. Our services aim to offer safe, efficient, and reliable transportation solutions for Riders within and around the University campus.
B. User Eligibility
1. Age Requirement: To access and utilize Solar Chauffeur's services, Riders must be a minimum of 16 years old. Riders under the age of 16 are not eligible to use our services unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
2. Compliance: All Riders are expected to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in this Agreement and any additional rules and guidelines provided by Solar Chauffeur.
C. Service Differentiation
1. Lithium-Powered Carts: Solar Chauffeur exclusively utilizes lithium-powered carts, prioritizing environmental sustainability and efficient transportation.
2. Scheduled Service: Our primary service feature includes scheduled transportation, ensuring predictability and convenience for our Riders.
3. Professional Drivers: Solar Chauffeur does not employ student drivers, unless:
a. They have a major of studies offered by the College of Human Environmental Sciences’, Department of Human Nutrition and Hospitality Management, or the College of Engineering’s Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering.
b. or they are in their senior year of studies, or beyond.
D. Primary Service Offerings
1. Smart Carts: Our flagship service, Smart Carts, provides primarily scheduled golf cart-based transportation solutions to students. Those some services may extend beyond the City of Tuscaloosa’s Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) boundary. In this case, full size vehicles will deliver service. We offer volume-based subscription options to accommodate a range of activity levels and to supplement (or replace a personal vehicle) if applicable. Solar Chauffeur also delivers request services for fixed-rate rides for specified ride types and metered rides for ad hoc services.
2. Lithium Lifts: Lithium Lifts offers efficient point-to-point transportation for eventgoers attending various activities on and around the University’s campus. These rides are primarily delivered on a flat-rate per person basis and may be subject to price hikes in times of extreme demand and/or traffic.
3. Capstone Caddy: Capstone Caddy specializes in transportation services for the University's academic community, special guests, and VIPs. Capstone Caddy facilitates logistics for special events, including but not limited to: parking lot service, vehicle charter service, and standby golf cart transportation services.
4. Airport Connection: Solar Chauffeur aims to simplify student life by providing transportation to local airports, including Tuscaloosa National Airport (TCL), Birmingham International Airport (BHM), and Atlanta International Airport (ATL).
III. Rider Responsibilities
A. Code of Conduct
1. Compliance: Riders are expected to comply with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations while using Solar Chauffeur's services. This includes, but is not limited to, obeying traffic laws, respecting the rights and privacy of others, and refraining from any unlawful or disruptive behavior.
2. Respect for Drivers: Riders must treat Solar Chauffeur's Drivers with respect and courtesy. Any form of verbal or physical abuse towards Drivers will not be tolerated.
3. Safety: Riders are responsible for their safety and the safety of others during their journey. This includes using safety restraints, following seating capacity limits, and adhering to any safety guidelines provided by Solar Chauffeur.
B. Prohibited Activities
1. Prohibited Actions: The following actions are strictly prohibited while using Solar Chauffeur's services:
i. Engaging in any illegal activities, including but not limited to drug use, vandalism, or theft.
ii. Carrying firearms or any other weapons.
iii. Harassment or intimidation of Drivers, other Riders, or individuals in the vicinity.
iv. Disruptive behavior, including excessive noise or unruly conduct.
v. Smoking, vaping, or the use of electronic cigarettes in any Solar Chauffeur vehicle.
vi. Bringing open containers of alcohol into Solar Chauffeur vehicles.
vii. Tampering with or damaging Solar Chauffeur vehicles or equipment.
2. Reporting Violations: Riders are encouraged to report any violations of the Code of Conduct or prohibited activities to Solar Chauffeur immediately.
C. Compliance with Laws
1. Legal Obligations: Riders are responsible for ensuring they have the legal right to use Solar Chauffeur's services. This includes possessing valid personal identification, if applicable, and adhering to any age requirements.
2. Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct, engage in prohibited activities, or adhere to legal obligations may result in the termination of a Rider's access to Solar Chauffeur's services.
IV. Service Descriptions and Pricing
A. Smart Cart Network
1. Service Description
The Smart Cart Network is Solar Chauffeur's innovative solution designed to optimize daily transportation for Riders. By leveraging Rider class schedules, this service orchestrates efficient and convenient golf cart-based pool rides from residence areas to class locations and back home. The Smart Cart Network ensures punctual attendance, reduces the need for personal vehicles, and provides a reliable and environmentally conscious mode of transportation for Riders.
2. Subscriptions
a. Cruiser Subscription
i. Scheduled Class to Class Transport
ii. (3) Smart Cart Network Rides/Day
iii. Complimentary Water
iv. Free Wi-Fi in Taxis
v. 10% Discount on Metered Rides
vi. No Surge Pricing
b. Voyager Subscription
i. All Cruiser Package Benefits
ii. (5) Smart Cart Network Rides/Day
iii. Complimentary Snacks
iv. Premium Vehicle Options
v. 20% Discount on Metered Rides
vi. No Show Protection for Missed Pickups
c. Navigator Subscription
i. All Voyager Package Benefits
ii. Unlimited Smart Cart Network Access
iii. Premium Vehicles Only
iv. Prioritized Network Access
v. Airport Service - 4x/Academic Year (Up to 75 mi/Trip)
d. Navigator Pro Upgrade (For Navigator Subscribers)
i. Additional (4) BHM Round-Trip Airport Services
3. Pricing (as of September 5, 2023)
a. Cruiser: $89.99/month
b. Voyager: $179.99/month
c. Navigator: $269.99/month
d. Navigator Pro Upgrade: annual fee of $450
e. Hailed rides are priced at the time of delivery
f. Service to: class, meetings, practice, work/work-study, student health are all delivered at a flat rate of $5.
NOTICE: These rates are subject to change without notice. Current subscribers may be eligible for grandfather rates if subscription is maintained perpetually.
B. Lithium Lift Network
1. Service Description
Lithium Lifts offers a dynamic and hassle-free transportation experience for event-goers at the University and its surrounding areas. Whether you're heading to sporting events, concerts, Greek life activities, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Lithium Lifts is your reliable partner in getting to and from your destination with ease. Our dedicated service ensures you reach your event promptly, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about transportation logistics.
2. Pricing
All quotes for the Lithium Lift Network are delivered on the day of service or at the time of service rendering.
C. Capstone Caddy
1. Service Description
Capstone Caddy specializes in transportation services tailored to the needs of the University's academic community, special guests, and VIPs. Our services encompass various logistics for special events, including parking lot services, vehicle charter options, and standby golf cart transportation services. We are committed to ensuring efficient and seamless transportation solutions for our clients, contributing to the success of events and enhancing the overall experience.
2. Pricing
Quotes for Capstone Caddy Charter Services are available upon request. Written quotes are guaranteed for up to 9 business days from delivery. Verbal quotations are subject to expiration on the 3rd business day after delivery.
D. Airport Connection
1. Service Description
Solar Chauffeur's Airport Connection service is your one-stop solution for seamless travel to and from local airports, including Birmingham International Airport (BHM), Tuscaloosa National Airport (TCL), and Atlanta International Airport (ATL). We are dedicated to simplifying the arrival and departure experience for students, ensuring a stress-free journey.
Our Airport Connection service offers two convenient options:
a. Shuttle Service: Riders can enjoy the reliability and convenience of our shuttle service, which operates on a fixed route schedule between the airports and the University of Alabama's campus. This service ensures cost-effective and timely transportation.
b. Personal Car Service: For those seeking a more personalized experience, we offer premium vehicle charter services. This option allows you to enjoy the comfort and flexibility of a private vehicle for your airport transportation needs.
Solar Chauffeur's commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction extends to our Airport Connection service, providing you with a safe and convenient travel experience.
2. Pricing (as of September 9, 2023)
a. Fixed Route from TCL to UA’s Campus (Round Trip): $60
b. Fixed Route from TCL to UA’s Campus (One Way): $35
c. Fixed Route from TCL to UA’s Campus (Round Trip): $150
d. Fixed Route from TCL to UA’s Campus (One Way): $80
e. Premium Vehicle Charter (Personal Car) Rates for Airport Connection services are available upon request.
V. Bookings and Payment
A. Bookings
1. Smart Cart Network
a. Reservation Process: Riders can reserve rides within the Smart Cart Network through the Solar Chauffeur mobile app or by contacting the concierge directly. Riders are encouraged to book their rides in advance, allowing Solar Chauffeur to optimize routes and ensure timely arrivals.
b. Subscriber Bookings: Our concierges build and deliver optimal route schedules to drivers daily, to ensure efficient and timely service to our entire network of subscribers. Our concierge also sends out a daily schedule to each of our subscribers, so they know what to expect and they can redirect us, in the event service is not required at a normally scheduled interval.
c. Same-Day Rides: For same-day transportation needs, Riders can request immediate service via the mobile app, by hailing a cart, or by contacting our concierge. Same day rides are subject to availability, as our fleet prioritizes subscribers.
2. Lithium Lifts Network
a. Event-Based Booking: Lithium Lifts operates primarily on a hailing basis, until subscribers enter the event network. Then availability is subject to lessen with increased in-network activity.
b. Advanced Bookings: Riders can book rides for specific events, such as sporting events, concerts, or Greek life activities, through the Solar Chauffeur concierge. During special events, managing app requests is less efficient for ad hoc requests. It is advisable for Riders to book their rides in advance of the event to secure their transportation.
3. Capstone Caddy
a. Event-Based Booking: Capstone Caddy's services can be quoted and scheduled by contacting Solar Chauffeur's dedicated reservation team. Quotes are available upon request and are subject to expiration on the 9th business day after delivery.
4. Airport Connection
a. Airport Shuttle: To book Airport Connection shuttle services, Riders can make reservations via the Solar Chauffeur mobile app, through the website, or by sharing your flight itinerary with our concierge. Advance booking is recommended for guaranteed availability.
b. Premium Vehicle Charter: Reservations for premium vehicle charter services for Airport Connection can be made by contacting Solar Chauffeur's reservation team. Riders can also inquire about availability and pricing for these services.
VI. Payments
1. Subscription Payments: Riders who subscribe to Smart Cart Network packages, including Cruiser, Voyager, and Navigator, will be billed monthly on the subscription date. Payment for subscriptions is due in advance and will be automatically processed through the payment method provided by the Rider during the subscription setup. Upgrades to subscription level will be pro-rated. Your current subscription will be upgraded immediately, upon payment. Though it may take 24 hours for all perks and services to become fully accessible.
2. All Other Services: For additional services, such as flat-rate rides and airport transportation, Riders will be charged based on the specific service requested. Payment for these services may be invoiced, processed at the time of booking, or at the rendering of service. Solar Chauffeur collects payments via Chase Quick Accept, PayPal (Venmo), Cash, and Stripe Pay.
3. Late Payments: Riders are responsible for making payments in a timely manner. Late payments may result in service restrictions, loss of perks, and muting of subscriber priority.
VII. Refund Policy
A. Subscription Cancellations: Cancellations for Smart Cart Network subscription packages, including Cruiser, Voyager, and Navigator, are available to be refunded in 1/30 day increments, minus the elapsed time of the subscription, since purchase or renewal. All subscription cancellations made prior to 21 days of service will be assessed a $20 processing fee. After this period, no fee will be assessed for cancellations.
B. All Other Services: 100% refunds for services such as flat-rate rides, charter service, event service, and airport transportation, may be granted to Riders or scheduling party, if the service is canceled at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled service time. Refunds for cancellations made less than 24 hours before a scheduled service may be granted at a 50% cancellation fee, subject to Solar Chauffeur’s discretion. All other cancellations are non-refundable. Refunds for canceled services will be processed in accordance with Solar Chauffeur's standard refund processing timeline.
VIII. Liabilities and Disclaimers
A. Smart Cart Network, Lithium Lifts, Capstone Caddy and Airport Connection
1. Limitation of Liability: Solar Chauffeur, its employees, contractors, and affiliates shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use the Smart Cart Network, Lithium Lifts Network, Capstone Caddy, or Airport Connection services. This includes, but is not limited to, damages for loss of profits, goodwill, data, or other intangible losses.
2. Rider Responsibility: Riders are responsible for their own safety while using Solar Chauffeur's services. Riders should exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines provided by Solar Chauffeur. Solar Chauffeur is not liable for any injuries, accidents, or damages resulting from Rider actions or negligence.
3. Service Availability: Solar Chauffeur strives to maintain reliable and efficient service. However, service availability may be affected by various factors, including: weather conditions, traffic, city ordinances, and operational disruptions.
4. Limitation of Liability: In addition to the general limitations of liability outlined in Section VIII.A, Capstone Caddy services may involve transportation of high-value personnel, guests, and VIPs. While Solar Chauffeur takes all necessary precautions to ensure safety and security, Riders acknowledge that Capstone Caddy services carry inherent risks. Solar Chauffeur shall not be held liable for any security-related incidents or disruptions that may occur during Capstone Caddy services.
5. High-Value Items: Riders using Capstone Caddy services are responsible for the security of their personal belongings and high-value items. Solar Chauffeur is not liable for the loss or damage of personal belongings during transportation.
B. General
1. Indemnification: Riders agree to indemnify and hold Solar Chauffeur, its employees, contractors, and affiliates harmless from any claims, losses, liabilities, and expenses, including legal fees, arising out of or related to Rider use of Solar Chauffeur's services.
2. Third-Party Services: Solar Chauffeur may partner with third-party service providers for certain aspects of its services, such as payment processing or vehicle maintenance. Riders acknowledge that third-party services may be subject to their own terms and conditions, and Solar Chauffeur shall not be held responsible for any issues related to third-party services.
3. Force Majeure: Solar Chauffeur is not liable for any failure or delay in service performance due to circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to acts of nature, government actions, labor disputes, and technical infrastructure failures.
4. Changes to Services: Solar Chauffeur reserves the right to make changes to its services, pricing, and terms and conditions at any time. Riders may or may not be notified of significant changes in advance.
5. Governing Law: These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state of Alabama, without regard to its conflict of law principles.
6. Dispute Resolution: Any disputes or claims arising from Rider use of Solar Chauffeur's services shall be subject to arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association.
C. Indemnification
1. Rider Responsibility: By using Solar Chauffeur's services, Riders agree to indemnify and hold harmless Solar Chauffeur, its employees, contractors, and affiliates from any claims, losses, liabilities, and expenses, including legal fees, that may arise from:
a. Rider actions or negligence while using the Smart Cart Network, Lithium Lifts, Airport Connection, or Capstone Caddy services.
b. Violation of these Terms and Conditions or any applicable laws or regulations by the Rider.
c. Any damage or injury caused by Rider to third parties or their property during the use of Solar Chauffeur's services.
d. Any claims or disputes arising between Riders and third parties, including other Riders, while using Solar Chauffeur's services.
2. Indemnification Scope: This indemnification provision extends to cover all claims, demands, suits, and legal actions related to the matters outlined in Section VIII.C.1. Solar Chauffeur reserves the right to participate in the defense of any claim for which it may seek indemnification, at its own expense.
3. Notification: In the event that a claim or dispute arises that may trigger indemnification under these Terms and Conditions, Riders are required to promptly notify Solar Chauffeur and provide all necessary information and cooperation to facilitate the defense of the claim.
IX. Termination
A. Termination by Rider
1. Subscription Services: Riders who subscribe to Smart Cart Network packages, including Cruiser, Voyager, or Navigator, may terminate their subscription at any time. Termination requests can be made through the by contacting customer support.
2. Event-Based Services: Riders using Lithium Lifts for event transportation may cancel their booking at any time before the event start time. Cancellation requests can be made through the Solar Chauffeur mobile app or by contacting customer support.
3. Capstone Caddy Services: Riders interested in Capstone Caddy's services may cancel or modify their reservation by contacting Solar Chauffeur's reservation team. Cancellation or modification requests must be made in accordance with the terms outlined in Section VII (Refund Policy).
4. Airport Connection Services: Riders using Airport Connection services may cancel their booking in advance of the scheduled service time. Cancellation requests can be made through the Solar Chauffeur mobile app or by contacting customer support.
B. Termination by Solar Chauffeur
1. Service Violations: Solar Chauffeur reserves the right to terminate or suspend a Rider's access to its services, including Smart Cart Network, Lithium Lifts, Capstone Caddy, and Airport Connection, in the event of:
a. Rider violation of these Terms and Conditions.
b. Rider engagement in unlawful activities during service use.
c. Rider actions that pose a safety risk to themselves, other Riders, or Solar Chauffeur personnel.
d. Rider non-compliance with payment obligations.
2. Notice of Termination: In cases where Solar Chauffeur chooses to terminate or suspend a Rider's access, Solar Chauffeur will provide notice to the Rider, specifying the reason for termination and any relevant details.
C. Effect of Termination
1. Rider Obligations: Upon termination of access to Solar Chauffeur's services, Riders must cease using the services immediately.
2. Outstanding Payments: Termination does not relieve Riders of their obligation to pay any outstanding fees or charges incurred before the termination date.
3. Refunds: Riders may be eligible for refunds in accordance with the Refund Policy outlined in Section VII.
4. Access Restoration: In cases where access is terminated by Solar Chauffeur, Riders may request a review of their termination status. Solar Chauffeur will assess the request and may, at its discretion, reinstate access if appropriate.
5. Survival of Terms: Sections VIII (Liabilities and Disclaimers), and any other sections necessary for the interpretation and enforcement of these Terms and Conditions, including the Privacy Policy, shall survive termination.
X. Changes to Terms and Conditions
A. Modification Authority
1. Solar Chauffeur's Right: Solar Chauffeur reserves the right to make changes, amendments, or modifications to these Terms and Conditions at its sole discretion. Solar Chauffeur may do so for various reasons, including but not limited to legal compliance, service improvements, or changes in business practices.
B. Notification of Changes
1. Rider Notification: In the event of significant changes to these Terms and Conditions, Solar Chauffeur will make reasonable efforts to notify Riders of such changes. Notification may be provided through one or more of the following methods:
a. Email notification to the Rider's registered email address.
b. In-app notifications within the Solar Chauffeur mobile app.
c. Posting of updated Terms and Conditions on the Solar Chauffeur website.
2. Effective Date: Changes to these Terms and Conditions will become effective on the date specified in the notification or, if no specific date is provided, within a reasonable timeframe from the date of notification.
C. Rider Acceptance
1. Continuing Use: By continuing to use Solar Chauffeur's services after the effective date of changes to these Terms and Conditions, Riders acknowledge and accept the modified terms.
2. Right to Decline: If a Rider does not agree with the changes made to these Terms and Conditions, they have the right to cease using Solar Chauffeur's services and terminate their account, as outlined in Section IX (Termination).
D. Review of Changes
1. Periodic Review: Riders are encouraged to periodically review these Terms and Conditions to stay informed of any updates or modifications. Solar Chauffeur may provide access to previous versions of the Terms and Conditions for reference.
E. Consent to Electronic Notices
1. Electronic Communication: Riders agree to receive notifications and communications, including changes to these Terms and Conditions, electronically. Electronic communication may be sent to the Rider's registered email address or provided through the Solar Chauffeur mobile app.
2. Printing and Saving: Riders have the option to print or save a copy of these Terms and Conditions for their records.
XI. Miscellaneous
A. Entire Agreement
1. Comprehensive Agreement: These Terms and Conditions constitute the entire agreement between Riders and Solar Chauffeur, superseding any prior agreements, understandings, or representations, whether written or oral.
B. Severability
1. Severability Clause: If any provision of these Terms and Conditions is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
C. Waiver
1. No Waiver: The failure of Solar Chauffeur to enforce any rights or provisions in these Terms and Conditions shall not constitute a waiver of such rights or provisions unless acknowledged and agreed to in writing by Solar Chauffeur.
D. Assignment
1. Assignment Restriction: Riders may not assign or transfer their rights or obligations under these Terms and Conditions to any third party without the prior written consent of Solar Chauffeur.
E. Headings
1. Headings for Convenience: The section headings in these Terms and Conditions are provided for convenience and do not affect the interpretation or enforcement of the agreement.
F. Contact Information
1. Contacting Solar Chauffeur: For any inquiries, notices, or communication related to these Terms and Conditions or Solar Chauffeur's services, Riders can contact Solar Chauffeur using the contact information provided on the Solar Chauffeur website or mobile app.
G. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
1. Choice of Law: These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state of Alabama, without regard to its conflict of law principles.
2. Dispute Resolution: Any disputes or claims arising from Rider use of Solar Chauffeur's services shall be subject to arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association.
H. Contact Information
Solar Chauffeur Contact: For inquiries or concerns related to these Terms and Conditions, Riders can contact Solar Chauffeur at the following address:
Solar Chauffeur, LLC
5558 Highway A1A
Vero Beach, FL, 32963
admin@solarchauffeur.com