Prevalence and Mechanisms of Discrimination: Evidence from the Ride-Hail and Taxi Industries

Abstract

Ride-hail services, including Uber and Lyft, have upended the taxi industry, but it remains unclear whether ride-hailing, like taxis, discriminates against riders based on race. To understand whether and when discrimination manifests in for-hire vehicle services, I conducted an audit of Uber, Lyft, and taxis in Los Angeles. Discrimination against black taxi riders resulted in far higher rates of trip cancellation and longer wait times compared with white riders. By contrast, ride-hailing dramatically reduced differences between riders. Findings suggest that discrimination occurs when people learn of rider characteristics and yield implications for how planners can use technology to deter discrimination.