Rideshares have quickly become normalized and are used by millions of Americans every day. In 2024, Uber and Lyft had 58.6 million and 19 million users, respectively. This number continues to grow as more people enjoy the convenience of ride-hailing services. However, while helpful, the increase in users has led to a higher demand for drivers, of whom there are now more than seven million registered.
Rideshare drivers, who are classified as independent contractors, do not earn a salary and are only paid per trip. The per-customer payment structure entices drivers to do everything in their power to secure more trips. Unfortunately, the pressure to do as many trips per day as possible leads to some risky behavior, increasing the chances of accidents. Let’s discuss what you should know when you’ve been in a rideshare accident.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents are increasing. While this upturn is helpful for users, it does promote competition between drivers, encouraging potentially dangerous driving. The most common causes of rideshare accidents in the US include:
- Driving while using a phone, adjusting GPS, changing music, eating, or talking to passengers leads to distractions which can quickly cause accidents.
- Any vehicle used to transport passengers regularly should undergo regular maintenance, which is often neglected by rideshare drivers who cannot afford to take time off to have their vehicles serviced.
- Increased competition among drivers leads to risky driving behaviors like speeding, weaving through traffic, skipping red lights, and failing to maintain safe following distances.
- Due to a lack of regulations, many drivers work for too many consecutive hours, leading to fatigued driving, which impairs drivers the same as drinking alcohol.
What to Do Immediately After a Rideshare Accident
After a rideshare accident, your safety should be your top priority. Your first step must always be to check yourself for injuries and ensure that you are out of immediate danger. After ensuring your own safety, see if anyone else involved in the accident needs help
Call 911 as soon as possible and report the accident. If you are not immediately taken to the hospital, wait at the accident scene until you have spoken to law enforcement. While you’re waiting, exchange contact information with everyone involved, including both drivers, other passengers, and witnesses.
If anyone asks you for information about the accident or your injuries, do not make any definitive statements. You are within your rights to refuse to answer any questions until you’ve received medical attention. Be sure to get the names and badge numbers of the police and request a copy of the accident report.
If you are able to, collect as much evidence as possible. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Then, see a doctor or go to the emergency room. Do not delay seeking a medical assessment even if you don’t notice any signs of injury. Retain copies of all medical records, scans, bills, and prescriptions.
Filing a Rideshare Insurance Claim
Receiving compensation for injuries sustained in a rideshare accident can be somewhat more complicated than a typical vehicle collision. Rideshare insurance varies depending on the company and the circumstances of the accident. Technically, your damages should be covered by the company’s insurance. However, if your driver caused the accident, you may need to file a claim with their personal auto insurance.
If the other driver was at fault, you may receive some compensation from the rideshare company and some from the other driver’s. If multiple people were sharing a trip in your vehicle, the compensation provided by the company would be divided among the injured people. Determining which party you should claim from can be challenging without expert guidance.
It is always recommended to consult an attorney who has experience with rideshare accidents. A lawyer who has handled rideshare injury claims will know the best strategy to secure compensation. Initiate the claims process by reporting the accident to the rideshare company and following their guidelines. Once you have filed a claim, typically done through the website, you should contact an attorney.
Legal Support for Uber and Lyft Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Rideshare accidents are becoming more prevalent, and at HHJ Trial Attorneys, we are prepared to help our clients protect their rights and financial futures. Our attorneys have decades of experience in personal injury and car accident law and stay up to speed with all developments in rideshare law.
Schedule your free consultation today to meet your lawyer and discuss your options. The rideshare accident claim process can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. We will provide the support and guidance you deserve to secure the financial protection you need to move forward.
