Those are called taxis.
All the gig economy is just based in the idea that companies that do business thru an app doesn't need to follow established laws.
When you make the request for a private car to take you somewhere, you’re putting your life in the driver’s hands for the duration of the ride. The medallion and privileges don’t make a difference, but they can make the difference in the availability of cars in your vicinity.
Drivers also care about having a safe work environment, reasonable working hours and a fair pay. Capitalism is not just about consumers, but about consumers and producers.
Apps push employees to accept ever lowering salaries to achieve that "cheap trips" and to renounce to their rights as employees to increase "availability". Labour laws were created to address this situations and should not be ignored.
How would you solve these problems?
> The medallion and privileges don’t make a difference, but they can make the difference in the availability of cars in your vicinity.
Many cities require tests, background checks, etc. to get a taxi driver license. Apps seem to have lowered that standards. So, the opposite - less safe travel - could be the actual reality. I think that your statement needs some extra proof.