Need a cab?

Do you take a taxi very often? If you do, would you use Uber instead? Uber is an on-demand car service application that allows to request private drivers through your smartphone, for a cheaper rate and probably faster. The service utilizes dispatch software to send the nearest driver within the database to your location and you will be charged directly to the credit card stored in your Uber account instead of paying to the driver by cash.

I learnt about Uber when I was in London visiting a very good friend. I don't normally use a taxi to get around but underground works left us no choice. Instead of calling a normal taxi, my friend ordered a private car through Uber and I must admit that I was impressed how fast the car arrive to our location and how luxurious the car looked. Apparently, you can choose the vehicle type depending on your needs: budget option, luxury option, a car for 6 passengers... and my friend likes everything over-the-top! ;)

This application started in San Francisco (CA) in 2009 and has since spread across the world. So far in the UK, it is only available in Manchester and London. However, Bristol Post said it may not be long before it arrives to Bristol.

This system has created some controversy, specially between the taxi driver's community. London cab drivers, for example, claim that this way of working constitutes a taxi meter and the law states that only black cabs are allowed to use this type of meter in London. Transport for London, on the other hand, says that Uber is doing nothing illegal.

Travelers are also concerned about their safety even though they'd be able to see driver's name and picture before booking the vehicle. In addition, the customer does not know the exact final fare. Uber gives you the estimate instead as costs are determined by the time taken and distance traveled. 

Tell us what you think: Would you use Uber service if it worked in Bristol? 

INTERESTING LINKS

• Bristol Post: What is Uber? How does it work?
• WikiHow: How to use Uber