I don't think Uber/Lyft are ideal solutions by any means. But I still think their origin can be traced to numerous problems with taxi services, definitely incl

I don't think Uber/Lyft are ideal solutions by any means. But I still think their origin can be traced to numerous problems with taxi services, definitely including the false economy of medallions. But taxi companies in the US have been ridiculously poor providers of service. Prior to Uber/Lyft, I had numerous problems with taxis, e.g. even scheduling them 24 hours ahead, they would show up late, resulting in being late to work or (nearly) missed flights; the dispatchers would lie about drivers accepting credit cards; etc. etc.. > fares may also go up. this was inevitable. Right now Uber/Lyft are subsidising fares. Once they've achieved market dominance, they will surely raise rates.