This week Uber is launching a carpooling option in Boston, Massachusetts, making it the fifth city to employ UberPool — multiple people going to the same place can ride in the same Uber and split the cost — however, taxi drivers are frustrated to say the least.
Uber started a petition for users to sign in an attempt to combat laws in favor of taxis to restrict Uber in Massachusetts. Recently, taxi drivers have voiced their concerns and shown frustration in the form of protests. According to Boston.com, State Representative Mike Moran and Senator Linda Dorcena-Forry have introduced a bill that "would require drivers to undergo fingerprint-based background checks and obtain commercial insurance. Uber and Lyft utilize their own background check systems, and the companies cover drivers at a commercial rate while rides are in progress."
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Taxi drivers want these services to be regulated the same way taxi services are regulated. For example, according to Commonwealth Magazine, there are only 1,825 medallions allowed in Boston, which taxi drivers must purchase in order to work, but there's no limit to the number of drivers Uber can hire in that area.
According to another article on Boston.com, "the taxi industry is subject to regulations and costs that Uber and Lyft drivers aren't, including set meter fees and higher insurance costs. Cabbies are also upset about the dwindling value of medallions, the limited number of municipal operating licenses that cost taxi owners hundreds of thousands of dollars to acquire."
While it seems like things aren't exactly fair-and-square in this industry, Uber is an efficient, modern way of transportation. Competition is fair, and it's difficult to deny the appeal of these new services.
When you get into an Uber, you know what you're getting into for the most part. Uber will show you a picture of the driver and tell you the type of car to expect in your driveway and what time to expect it. Taxis can't guarantee that same security.
I've ordered a few Uber rides myself and taken rides with co-workers. You can order and pay with a debit or credit card as you're just finishing getting ready, and the driver arrives quickly. The car is always spotless, and the driver is polite. It's a safe option after a night of drinking, especially if taxis aren't common where you live. I understand this is taking away from taxi drivers, but this is competition. Someone was bound to come up with a better idea for transportation. This is a great innovation for those who don't live in cities like me. I know they'll come quickly because the nearest driver will be chosen to get me, and I know the price won't drain my bank account, which means a lot to a college student. While it's unfortunate for taxi drivers, I hope these services are here to stay.
