Press "Enter" to skip to content

Posts tagged as “Taxis”

Uber Transportation Innovation

In the regulative battle between ride-sharing and taxi services, consumer choice is at stake. Source: Richard Perry/New York Times
In the regulative battle between ride-sharing and taxi services, consumer choice is at stake. Source: Richard Perry/New York Times

 

On an ordinary day, Lyft and Uber are fierce competitors, often resorting to questionable tactics and always eager to steal each other’s drivers; however, in Sacramento, they have become unlikely bedfellows. In light of recent efforts to regulate the steadily growing industry, ride-sharing companies have pooled resources to fight what they have touted as an egregious violation of free market principles and a blatant attempt by the taxi industry to lobby the government into minimizing their market advantage. On the other hand, there are those in Sacramento who claim that consumer safety lies at the heart of the issue and that attempts at passing regulative bills are aimed at leveling the competitive playing field. Although both positions have merit, they cannot peacefully co-exist without further measures. The state government must address this conflict to preserve competition, provide choice and safety for the consumer, and protect the job market for all drivers.