Taxi drivers jam Philadelphia's traffic, march in Uber protest
PHILADELPHIA -- More than 100 taxi and black car drivers are clogging streets in downtown Philadelphia to protest ride-hailing services Uber and Lyft.
The drivers jammed Philadelphia's Market Street in front of City Hall, blocking traffic on the major thoroughfare for about a mile. Many began to ditch their cars in the street to march toward the building.
The drivers included those who work for Uber's black car service, who are licensed. Along with cab drivers, they are protesting that Uber and Lyft are operating without legal approval in the city.
Uber says it understands drivers' frustration but blames regulation by the Philadelphia Parking Authority, citing "obsolete vehicle restrictions and onerous insurance requirements," CBS Philadelphia reports.
Uber also said riders are looking for cheaper alternatives, and that they "believe statewide reform of the PPA [Pennsylvania Parking Authority] that allows for regulated ridesharing will benefit both riders and driver."
The strike in Philadelphia is just one of many strikes that have occurred internationally against Uber. Earlier this year, in June, protests against Uber in France turned violent and tires were seen burning. Uber cars were reportedly smashed with bats as well.
In Mexico, during the month of July, Uber drivers were attacked by taxi drivers during a protest against the company.