Audio By Carbonatix
Sick of strutting your stuff on the street corner while trying to hail a cab? Uber, a tech-savvy car service spreading across the country, has an alternative. Simply launch the app on your smartphone, request a car, track it on a map as it makes its way, and get in the black luxury car when it arrives. Your bill, which includes a preset tip, is charged directly to your credit card.
Because the service falls somewhere between a traditional taxi and a limousine, Uber is currently illegal in Miami-Dade County, but that might change soon.
The company announced on its blog that Commissioner Audrey Edmonson has introduced legislation to the Miami-Dade County Commission that would eliminate many of the rules that forbid Uber from entering the market.
Miami-Dade has a lot of regulations that limit the operation of non-taxi car services, and requires them to charge a price of $70 even for just a one-stop ride. Edmonson’s proposal would eliminate much of those regulations.
When news happens, Miami New Times is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.
We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to you. If Miami New Times matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.
Uber, which uses cars such as BMWs and Cadillacs, usually charges about 45 to 75 percent more than a taxi, a price they’ve found customers who appreciate the convenience and luxury are willing to pay. The company is experimenting with lower-priced services in some cities to compete directly with traditional cabs, but as the company points out, Edmonson’s proposals would let the company offer only its higher-end services in Miami-Dade.
Follow Miami New Times on Facebook and Twitter @MiamiNewTimes.
