Five Things You Must Do to Protect Yourself
More and more Americans are using ridesharing services as a “safer” transportation alternative. Indeed, Uber® processed over 26 Billion Dollars in gross bookings in 2020 alone, with an estimated 4 million drivers out on the roads each day. Inevitably, as ridership increases, so does the negative statistics. A review of Uber’s® own Safety Report reveals that there were 107 total fatalities in 2017 and 2018 reported in relation to the Uber® app. Approximately 90% of their fatal collisions occurred in urban areas, and 30% of such fatalities involved pedestrians. Many factors contribute to ridesharing accidents: driver drowsiness; inattention; speeding; as well as a complete lack of training and supervision. Most rideshare Drivers are considered Independent Contractors, and not employees of the Company. This could mean that your rideshare Driver has little - if any - supervision by the Company reaping the profits. No supervision often leads to: infrequent or non-existent background and license checks; unlimited driving hours without any regard for drowsiness and safety; uninspected or unsafe vehicles; a “hustle” mentality that trades safety, for speed and fares.
With this in mind, here are FIVE things you should consider for your next ride:
1. SPEEDING: Certain rideshare apps offer the option to put a speed alert on the Driver. When enabled, the Driver will receive a text notification to slow down if he/she is speeding. Politely inquire about it, or put it in the “special requests” section;
2. DROWSINESS PREVENTION: Certain rideshare apps limit the number of hours a Driver can ride, requiring a six-hour break time. Insist on it.
3. ACCIDENTS: If your ridesharing Driver is in an accident, insist that the Police be called and that it be reported. Get the names of all witnesses, and take photographs of the vehicles involved (damage and license plates). Make certain the Driver files a report as required.
4. INJURIES: If you are injured in a ridesharing accident, seek hospital/medical attention immediately. Make certain that you inform the Police that you are injured, and insist on an ambulance.
5. ATTORNEY: Contact an experienced lawyer immediately if you are injured, to inform you of your rights. There are time restraints and requirements. For example, you will have only 30 days to process the correct paperwork with the rideshare Driver’s insurance company. The Insurance Company will have well-paid lawyers on their side. Make certain that you choose a law firm with experienced attorneys who will protect you and fight for you or your loved one.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a ridesharing car accident, contact the premier personal injury law firm of Rosner Russo Shahabian PLLC. Our team of attorneys is well versed in the complex insurance issues related to rideshare vehicle accidents and will expertly, empathetically and aggressively fight for what you deserve. To schedule a free and confidential consultation today, call (516) 376-0000.
*For educational and informational purposes only, and not as a substitute for legal advice.