Should Government Have a Say Over Ride-Sharing Apps, Services?

Technologies like websites and apps seem to be providing solutions to societal problems and challenges in growing numbers.

Kickstarter and other on-line “crowd-funding” services are helping start-ups receive the critical funding they would not have been able to obtain otherwise. Waze and other crowd-sourced traffic apps offer constantly updated traffic information.

Now, companies like Sidecar and Uber are attempting to make the process of ride-sharing and transportation reservations easier for consumers, according to a recent post on Greater Greater Washington. While consumers may rejoice at the new tools, they may “run afoul of regulations designed to protect consumers,” according to the article.

Existing services like Airbnb (a company that helps people rent out their homes or apartments when not being used) and Uber (a smartphone app that helps consumers reserve luxury sedan rides) have come under scrutiny by officials for potential legal issues.

While Uber was deemed legal for use in the District, it does have to report trip data to the DC Taxi Cab Commission to ensure it is actually “serving all parts of the city.”

Greater Greater Washington raises the question as to how private car sharing services (such as Sidecar)—which let private individuals become "community drivers" by offering rides for a "donation"—should be regulated.

According to the Washington City Paper, the D.C. Taxi Cab Commission will “regulate Sidecar vehicles just like sedans,” and require it to comply with DC licensing laws and regulations.