Regulated cab companies simply sold out during the snowstorm -- there were more people asking for rides, and fewer drivers willing to drive.

Uber's approach solved both problems: filter down the list of ride requests to those who really need to go, and provide an incentive for drivers to drive during the really nasty weather.

Uber is a luxury good, and the price floats with supply/demand. There's nothing wrong with that, and no one is entitled to use their service.