More than 10,500 black-cab drivers in London have initiated a £250 million legal case against Uber, alleging that the ride-hailing company violated the city’s taxi booking regulations and intentionally misled authorities to obtain a license. The case, filed in London’s high court by litigation management firm RGL, revives a claim initially raised five years ago, focusing on Uber’s operations in London between 2012 and 2018. According to the cabbies, Uber allowed drivers to accept bookings directly from customers, bypassing the centralized systems used by minicab services—a direct violation of private hire rules.
The drivers contend that Uber was fully aware of these rules and deliberately provided misleading information to Transport for London (TfL) to secure its operating license and compete with black-cab drivers. Uber, however, denies the allegations, asserting that the claim lacks merit. Represented by law firm Mishcon de Reya, the drivers argue that they suffered unfair competition and financial losses due to Uber’s practices. Garry White, a black-cab driver with 36 years of experience, emphasizes the need for justice and fair compensation, stating that Uber cannot act above the law. If successful, the cabbies could collectively receive over £250 million, with individual payouts potentially reaching £25,000 or more.
This legal challenge adds to Uber’s ongoing legal woes. In March, the San Francisco-based company settled for A$272 million (£142 million) in Australia to compensate taxi and hire-car drivers who claimed financial losses when Uber aggressively entered the Australian market. The class action, initiated five years ago, alleged that Uber X’s launch in Australia aimed to harm existing taxi businesses. It also accused Uber of using unlicensed cars with unaccredited drivers and misleading regulators through unlawful means.
Dale Forwood, a black-cab driver with 12 years of experience, expressed hope that the London case would bring justice to local cabbies. He welcomed the opportunity to have their day in court and highlighted the harm caused by Uber’s unlawful behavior to hard-working drivers.
Great to see the firm where I did my placement year doing some important work!
