Mayor Walter Maddox initially voiced concerns due to Uber’s lack of compliance with Tuscaloosa’s traditional taxi regulations. The San Francisco-based company requires its own inspections and background checks, which are acceptable in most towns across America, but not enough for the city government here in Tuscaloosa. Uber is not a traditional taxi company; instead, the drivers are independent contractors using their own vehicles to keep costs low, utilizing smart phone technology to create a streamlined, convenient service for their customers. It’s these differences that makes Uber a tenant of the modern world, setting themselves apart from typical taxi companies and the rules that follow.
Other universities have realized the potential behind Uber, more than simply allowing its presence, but going so far as to recommend and even pay for its usage. One such school working toward this is The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which has a trial run for free student rides during late night hours on its way. The program is being made possible by contributions from the Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils and an anonymous donor. UNC faced an incident this summer where an intoxicated student killed three others in a car accident that could have been avoided with the use of Uber or another similar service. A tragedy made one university realize how important safe rides are for students, and it should not take another one to make The University of Alabama see this as well.
We as a student body should not have to accept less than the innovation that the free market brings – it is constantly evolving to bring us the best options possible – and most places realize and accept it. Our campus and the surrounding area seem to become more dangerous each day, but incidents can be prevented by allowing millennials to use the technology we love, like the Uber app, to make staying safe easy and convenient.
Sarah Howard is a sophomore majoring in chemistry. Her column runs biweekly.
