Uber Technologies and Lyft are facing trial in Massachusetts over allegations by the state's attorney general that the ride-share companies have misclassified thousands of drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. The trial, which began on Monday, is the culmination of nearly four years of legal battles. The attorney general's office argues that by classifying drivers as independent contractors, Uber and Lyft avoid providing benefits such as minimum wage, overtime, and earned sick time. The companies, however, contend that they are technology platforms facilitating transportation rather than direct transportation providers.