Uber is currently facing a substantial lawsuit filed by nearly 11,000 black cab drivers in London, amounting to a potential £250 million in damages. The drivers allege that Uber
misrepresented its app's functionality to Transport for London (TfL) in order to secure its license for operating in the city.
According to RGL Management, the litigation management firm overseeing the case, each cab driver could receive up to £25,000 if successful. Uber has vehemently denied these allegations, stating that it operates within the bounds of the law in London, holds a valid license from TfL, and serves millions of passengers and drivers in the city.
The lawsuit focuses on Uber's activities in London between May 2012 and March 2018. It alleges that Uber's actions were aimed at unlawfully diverting business away from existing black cab drivers. Garry White, a veteran black cab driver, expressed frustration, stating that Uber's perceived disregard for regulations has led to significant financial losses for cab drivers across London.
The legal proceedings, represented by Mishcon de Reya, are scheduled to commence in the High Court soon. Despite multiple attempts, TfL has yet to comment on the matter.
Uber's operations in London have been fraught with challenges over the years, including TfL's refusal to renew its license in 2017 due to concerns about corporate responsibility and public safety. However, after successful appeals, Uber secured a temporary license in 2022, which is set to expire in September of this year.
In addition to the London lawsuit, Uber has faced legal battles in other parts of the world. In Australia, the company agreed to a settlement of A$271.8 million in a class-action lawsuit brought by taxi operators and drivers who claimed financial losses due to Uber's aggressive entry into the market.
Similarly, in France, Uber emerged victorious in a lawsuit filed by 2,500 taxi drivers, with a commercial court ruling in favor of Uber, stating that it had not engaged in unfair competition.
Despite these legal challenges, Uber continues to operate in numerous countries and cities worldwide, with a presence in over 70 countries and more than 10,000 cities. Photo by Raysonho @ Open Grid Scheduler / Scalable Grid Engine, Wikimedia commons.