The global fight against Uber

(Reuters file)
(Reuters file)

For many, Uber has fast become the most popular way to get around.

It's cheap, it's quick and it's all done over your phone.

But soon Uber could be driven off the road here, with the Government considering banning the company due to its lax driver checks.

"We cannot have a system where drivers on our roads don't have the medical checks, don't have an assurance that they haven't got charges pending that may potentially be incredibly serious criminal charges," said Transport Minister Simon Bridges.

It's not the first time the ride-sharing company has landed in hot water.

In December 2014 Parisian taxi drivers caused chaos when they held up roads by moving like snails across the city.

Drivers said it was unfair competition, with Uber subject to no charges and no taxes.

In Rio De Janeiro, drivers blocked highways in protest.

They labelled Ubers "illegal taxis", with many worried about losing customers during the Olympics.

Earlier this year, 8000 London cabbies blocked lanes and halted traffic around Westminster.

Drivers were furious Uber had gained a license to operate and said customer safety was at risk.

There've also been reports of attacks on customers by Uber drivers, mostly overseas.

Some countries have gone as far as to ban the service, including Thailand, parts of India and Queensland.

Could New Zealand be next?

Newshub.