> So they attempted trickery to pay them less as "independent" contractors

An Uber driver is the very definition of an independent contractor. Many drivers also drive for Lyft. How can they be “employees” of Uber while also driving Lyft? Or doing Door Dash?

If Uber drivers were employees, they would have to work where and when assigned. As it is now, Uber drivers come and go as they please.

I am not sure how an Uber driver is any different than a freelance journalist or musician.