They shouldn&#x27;t have to follow <i>exactly</i> the same rules as taxis; regulations usually distinguish between taxis (which can accept street hails) and call-a-ride services (which can&#x27;t) -- though the two are usually confused because you often hear &quot;let me call you a cab&quot;, which will summon a ride.<p>They reserve lighter regulations for call-a-ride since there&#x27;s much better authentication (it&#x27;s &quot;look for Paul with this license plate&quot; rather than &quot;get in this random car&quot;); a separate, audited, non-cash payment channel; and a third party monitoring it.  The distinction long-predated apps.<p>Comparisons to reckless gypsy cabs are unwarranted.