Taking an Uber or Lyft from place to place has become commonplace, allowing for convenient cost-effective travel nearly anywhere you want to go. With rideshares becoming the go to mode of transportation for a night out it is important to understand that even though you are not driving there is still potential for you to get into an accident. With that in mind it is important that you are prepared for any scenario, and in this article we will be diving into the most common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents as well as the rights that you have as a passenger.
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents
- Distracted Driving: According to the NHTSA the most common cause of car accidents is due to distracted driving. This is important to know as Uber / Lyft drivers often have to rely heavily on their GPS to guide them to and from their destinations. This constant use of these devices can lead to their eyes not staying on the road ahead of them. Additionally, rideshare drivers spend most of their time in their vehicle, requiring them to manage the rideshare app, receive personal calls and texts, as well as possibly eat while driving. These actions should not be handled while driving and can be significant distractions leading to more and more time spent with their eyes not on the road.
- Speeding: As a rideshare driver makes money by the amount of rides that they are able to give in a day, oftentimes the driver will try to maximize their earnings by speeding to finish rides as quickly as possible. Speeding is reckless driving behavior and greatly increases the likelihood of getting into an accident, making the road unsafe for everyone on it.
- Drowsy Driving: The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that around 328,000 drowsy driving crashes occur annually. This is important to note as many Uber / Lyft drivers work long hours and often drive throughout the night. This can lead to fatigue, which impairs reaction time, decision making ability, and the ability to focus – similar to the effects of driving drunk.
Rights of Passengers in Rideshare Vehicles
As a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you are entitled to a standard of care from both the rideshare company as well as its drivers. This means that you have certain rights while you are in a rideshare, and understanding them is crucial to your safety. These rights are:
- Right to Safe Transport: Rideshare drivers and companies are responsible for providing you with a safe journey to your destination. This responsibility includes properly maintaining vehicles, following traffic laws, and ensuring that the driver of the vehicle is adequately rested and attentive behind the wheel.
- Right to Compensation: If you happen to be injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, as well as any long lasting pain and suffering. Uber and Lyft typically have insurance policies in place that cover their passengers’ injuries; however, the specifics can vary and might depend on whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger or was just merely logged into the app. To help navigate the complexities of this insurance policy consider reaching out to an uber accident lawyer.
- Right to Information: After you have been in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, you have the right to access any information about the ride including, the driver’s name, and the circumstances of the crash. This data can be critical in building a personal injury claim. If a rideshare company is restricting access to this information contact a rideshare accident attorney immediately so they can protect your right to this information.
Pursuing a Claim
If you or someone you know has been injured in an Uber or a Lyft, following these steps can be crucial in seeking the compensation that you deserve:
Seek Medical Attention
Your health is the number one priority after an accident. Always get yourself evaluated by a medical professional after an accident, even if you do not feel hurt. A doctor will be able to do an in depth evaluation and will be able to reveal any injuries that may not be visible on the surface, or that are being covered up by adrenaline from the accident. Seeking prompt medical treatment not only supports your recovery but it also provides documentation that proves the extent of your injuries.
Document Everything
In a personal injury claim evidence is everything. Try to keep records of all medical treatments, communications that you had with the rideshare company, as well as any witness statements or contact information. If you hire a Lyft attorney then they will be able to help you in this collection process and organize all of your documentation in a way that helps support your case.
Consult With a RideShare Accident Attorney
Navigating the legal nuances of a rideshare accident can be complex, and a skilled Uber accident lawyer can offer you invaluable assistance. Your attorney will provide you with help investigating the accident, negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigating your case on your behalf.
When you are traveling in an Uber or a Lyft you should be able to feel safe, and if unfortunately something goes wrong and you are injured you deserve compensation for your injuries. Here at LifeLaw Personal Injury our team of rideshare accident lawyers are skilled in navigating the intricacies of these types of cases. Our goal is to handle every detail of your injury case so you can focus on what is really important, your recovery. Let our Uber accident lawyers take care of you and get you the best possible outcome for your case. If you or someone you know has been injured in contact us today for a free case review and to discuss your options further.