Uber and Lyft are among the most popular ridesharingservices. Uber launched in 2009, and Lyft was not far behind, launching in 2012. Both offer similar services and use an app. Uber offers not just transportation but has also branched into UberEats, a food delivery service. Both Uber and Lyft are researching the use of self-driving cars and deploying bicycles and even scooters.
The two services rely on independent contractors who furnish their own vehicles. While the rise of the ridesharingservice has provided a source of income for many Americans, it has not been a smooth road for the industry. Finding the perfect balance for driver background checks and passenger safety has lawmakers questioning key issues, such as no fingerprinting of drivers.