I couldn't disagree more. Whether or not a passenger is a repeat customer of a driver is irrelevant, the drivers are rated by each passenger (at least for uber, this is non-optional), and if their rating gets too low, they stop getting fares. This system is infinitely more effective, efficient, fair and maybe most importantly, up to date, than any background check or fingerprinting system ever could be.
And not only is it effective at protecting the public, it actually incentivizes the driver to be better than the bare minimum (which is what is encouraged by simple background checks).
How does a rating stop a person from becoming a driver just so he can rape his first fare, then quit? He's not going to be bothered by stars or future fares.
How does a fingerprint/background check stop a person from becoming a driver just so he can rape his first fare, then quit?
You're basically asking, how does X prevent a person from being a rapist?
Answer: nothing can "prevent" rapists and murderers. they exist regardless of precautions, and the word "prevention" is overused. background checks, and fingerprints do nothing to prevent creeps.
How does a background check or fingerprint accomplish that either? And secondly, why is that even a concern? If someone wants to rape, they don't need to be an uber driver to do it.
And not only is it effective at protecting the public, it actually incentivizes the driver to be better than the bare minimum (which is what is encouraged by simple background checks).