LONDON : Uber is gearing up to face a multi-million-pound legal challenge brought forth by nearly 11,000 black cab drivers.
According to the BBC, the lawsuit is spearheaded by litigation management firm RGL Management. Uber is accused of deliberately misleading Transport for London (TfL) regarding the functionality of its app to secure a license to operate in the city.
The claim, estimated to be worth a staggering £250 million ($313 million), asserts that Uber’s actions between May 2012 and March 2018 were aimed at unlawfully diverting business from existing black cab drivers.
Each claimant stands to potentially receive £25,000 in compensation if the case is ruled in their favor.
Uber spokesperson vehemently denied any wrongdoing in response to the accusation, saying: “These old claims are completely unfounded. Uber operates lawfully in London, is fully licensed by TfL, and is proud to serve millions of passengers and drivers across the capital.”
The legal battle, represented by law firm Mishcon de Reya, is scheduled to commence in the High Court on Thursday. It promises to be a landmark case that could reshape the regulatory landscape for ride-hailing companies in London.
This legal saga is just the latest chapter in Uber’s tumultuous history in London. In 2017, TfL refused to renew Uber’s license, citing concerns about corporate responsibility and public safety.
In 2022, Uber was granted a temporary two-and-a-half-year license to continue operating in London, which is set to expire at the end of September.
