For Australia’s taxi drivers and operators, this alone is vindication.
They insist Uber knew their drivers and vehicles needed to obtain licensing, yet failed to abide by this requirement. These plaintiffs furthermore accuse the rideshare conglomerate of taking shortcuts that ultimately gave them a “foothold” and “commercial advantage” at the expense of taxi drivers.
A tough situation to begin with
In most places around the world, taxi operators and companies generally frown upon Uber. The rideshare business naturally targets their customers, offering the same services at significantly reduced rates.
Unlike many taxis (which generally operate by the meter), Uber lets riders know – ahead of time – the fixed rate they can expect to pay for each trip. Many people consequently prefer this over evolving trip charges that vary according to the meter.
Amid generating tens of billions in revenue each year, Uber will almost certainly keep thriving even after its $178 million payment to Australia’s taxi drivers and operators.
