In a bold move that echoes the ongoing tensions between traditional taxi services and ride-hailing giants, more than 10,000 London black-cab drivers have launched a monumental legal battle against Uber, demanding a staggering £250 million in compensation. This lawsuit, filed on behalf of London's iconic black-cab drivers, accuses Uber of unlawfully operating in the capital city and causing significant financial losses to the traditional taxi community.
The legal action, spearheaded by RGL Management and supported by the law firm Mishcon de Reya, alleges that Uber misled Transport for London (TfL) to obtain its operating license and subsequently took business away from existing black-cab drivers. The claim, filed in the High Court, accuses Uber of deliberately misleading authorities about how its app-based booking system worked, thereby breaching taxi-booking rules in London.
Uber knew this at all material times; and that in order to obtain its license Uber deliberately misled Transport for London as to how that operating system worked," said RGL Management, representing the aggrieved drivers.
The legal battle, which is set to be a defining moment in the ongoing struggle between traditional taxi services and ride-hailing platforms, is a culmination of years of simmering tensions. Since Uber's arrival in London in 2012, the company has been embroiled in numerous controversies and legal challenges, including a refusal by TfL to renew its license in 2017 due to concerns over public safety.
Uber, however, has maintained that it operates lawfully in London, is fully licensed by TfL, and is proud to serve millions of passengers and drivers across the capital. The company has also pointed out that it has made significant efforts to work with the black-cab community, including allowing them to accept rides through its app.
The lawsuit covers the period between 2012 and 2018 and could potentially see each of the 10,000-plus black-cab drivers eligible for compensation of up to £25,000. The legal action is a clear indication of the determination of London's black-cab drivers to protect their livelihoods and the heritage of the city's iconic taxi service.
As the legal battle unfolds, it promises to be a significant test for both Uber and the traditional taxi community, with far-reaching implications for the future of urban transport.
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