Lyft was the first company to operate in Miami, and Miami was the first market where drivers could face criminal charges. Uber avoided operating in Miami for this very reason and when it saw inaction in enforcement, they informed the Miami government that they would also enter the market if they continue to not enforce the law. I don't know about you, but putting drivers in a position where they could face criminal charges and jail time is far worse than anything I've seen Uber do. With civil liabilities, these companies can support the drivers with legal help, but with criminal liabilities, neither company can offer their drivers a get-out-of-jail free card.
The idea that one company is more ethical than the other is a farce.