Uber faces multi-million pound legal case from London black cab drivers
Uber is facing a major legal battle in London as almost 11,000 black cab drivers are taking the ride-hailing giant to court. The drivers allege that Uber misled Transport for London (TfL) in order to obtain a license to operate in the city, with a potential claim worth at least £250m.
The litigation management firm RGL Management is representing the claimants, who argue that Uber’s actions between May 2012 and March 2018 were aimed at unlawfully taking business away from existing black cab drivers. Garry White, a veteran black cab driver, stated, “Uber seems to believe it is above the law and cabbies across London have suffered loss of earnings because of it. It is time they were held to account.”
Law firm Mishcon de Reya has filed the group action in the High Court on behalf of the claimants, with partner Richard Leedham stating that Uber has consistently failed to comply with the law that applies to private hire vehicles in London.
This is not the first time Uber has faced challenges in London, as TfL refused to renew the company’s license in 2017 due to concerns about corporate responsibility and public safety. However, Uber successfully appealed and was granted a two-and-a-half-year license in 2022.
Uber has also faced legal battles in other countries, including a recent settlement in Australia where they agreed to pay A$271.8m to taxi operators and drivers. Despite these challenges, Uber continues to operate in numerous countries and cities worldwide.
The outcome of this latest legal case in London could have significant implications for Uber’s operations in the UK capital and beyond. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
