Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient and affordable transportation option for many. Instead of hailing a cab or calling a car service, passengers simply request a ride through the app and receive details about the driver, vehicle, and estimated arrival time. However, rideshare passengers still face the risk of being involved in car accidents.
Rideshare drivers are only required to have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check, and register their vehicle. While many follow the rules of the road diligently, others may engage in unsafe behaviors that increase the risk of serious accidents. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers may check the app for ride requests, interact with passengers, or follow GPS directions while driving. Even a momentary distraction can lead to collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists.
- Impaired Driving: Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, meaning they are not subject to random drug or alcohol testing. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly increases the risk of accidents.
- Drowsy Driving: Many rideshare drivers work long hours or multiple shifts, leading to fatigue. Extreme drowsiness can impair reaction time, coordination, and judgment, contributing to collisions.
- Speeding: Drivers may exceed speed limits to complete rides faster and maximize earnings. Speeding increases both the likelihood and severity of accidents.
- Unfamiliar Routes: Drivers relying on GPS in unfamiliar areas may make abrupt turns or stops, increasing accident risk.
- Scanning for Passengers: Searching for passengers in crowded or unfamiliar locations diverts attention from the road.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Drivers are responsible for maintaining their cars. Malfunctioning brakes, worn tires, or other neglected issues can cause accidents.
- Unsafe Pick-Up Locations: Stopping in narrow streets, busy intersections, or otherwise hazardous areas can jeopardize safety and cause collisions.
- Reckless Driving: Tailgating, running red lights, weaving through traffic, and failing to yield are additional risks.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Portsmouth
If you are involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps is crucial to protecting your legal and financial rights:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request police and emergency medical assistance.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries.
- Document the scene. Take photos of your injuries, vehicles, road conditions, and accident location. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Report the accident to the rideshare company’s claims team.
- File a claim. Depending on circumstances, you may file against the driver and potentially Uber or Lyft.
- Consult an experienced lawyer. A Portsmouth Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can help determine liability and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
Our Portsmouth Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Anchor Legal® Will Help
Our Portsmouth Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Anchor Legal® represent victims of rideshare crashes. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 757-LAW-0000 or contact us online. Located in Virginia Beach, we serve clients in Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Portsmouth, Newport News, Hampton, Williamsburg, and Eastern Shore, Virginia.