Uber claims its drivers are independent contractors and therefore not entitled to traditional corporate benefits, while more and more of its drivers say they should be considered employees.

In a recent ruling by the California Labor Commissioner’s office, one San Francisco Uber driver requested reimbursement for mileage and toll expenses to the tune of $4,000 for her three-month stint with the firm; the office ruled in her favor, saying her services were “integral” to Uber’s business and that she was an employee.

Uber is appealing the decision, but in March a federal judge ruled that a similar, class-action lawsuit brought in San Francisco can proceed. Those plaintiff Uber drivers claim they are entitled to benefits like healthcare, unemployment insurance and workmen’s compensation. Potential decisions by high courts against Uber could seriously impact the company’s business model.

Read the full article from the Los Angeles Times.