Remember when you either drove yourself or took a cab? Things have changed. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed people’s travel, offering convenience and affordability. However, anytime you hire someone to provide you with transportation, there are potential safety concerns for both passengers and drivers. In the unfortunate event of an injury, while using a rideshare service, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to ensure your safety and seek appropriate compensation. A Houston rideshare accident attorney can help you understand your rights.
Safety Measures Before Using A Rideshare
Before we discuss obtaining compensation for injuries, it’s prudent to briefly highlight ways you can protect yourself BEFORE an accident happens. These are the steps you should take each time you use a rideshare:
- Verify the Driver and Vehicle: Before getting into a rideshare vehicle, always ensure that the driver and vehicle match the information provided in the app. Verify the driver’s name, photo, and license plate number.
- Share Your Trip Details: Let someone know the details of your trip by using the rideshare app’s share feature.
- Wear Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt during the ride, regardless of the distance. Seatbelts significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels suspicious, take appropriate action, such as contacting emergency services or exiting the vehicle.
Steps To Take If You’re Injured In A Rideshare Accident
If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be the top priority. If you sustain an injury during a rideshare trip, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s essential to get checked by a healthcare professional.
- Document the Incident: If you can, take photographs of the accident scene, including any injuries you’ve sustained and damage to the vehicle. If there are witnesses, get their contact information and statements about what they saw.
- Report the Incident to the rideshare company: Promptly report the accident or incident to the rideshare company and give them detailed information about what happened, including the date, time, and location of the incident. They may initiate an investigation and guide the next steps.
- Preserve Evidence: Retain all information and documents related to the incident, including medical records, correspondence with the rideshare company, and any receipts or bills for expenses incurred due to the injury.
What Are Your Rights If You’re Injured?
If your injuries are the result of the negligence or misconduct of a rideshare driver or another third party, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other compensable items. But it’s important to be aware that rideshare cases are complex because the “companies” are software platforms, not transportation providers in the strictest sense of the word. In addition, the drivers are driving their own cars and are, in some cases, considered independent contractors and not employees of the rideshare company. An experienced Houston rideshare accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and advocate. Contact LopezFranco for a free consultation today.