Lyft, Uber and other rideshare services have changed the way we travel, but safety isn’t always guaranteed. And it’s not just rideshare passengers who need to be careful. Rideshare drivers face their fair share of risks as well, but there are steps they can take to protect themselves from unsafe circumstances and lower their accident risks.
If you are ever involved in a car accident as a rideshare driver or a rideshare passenger, Brazil Sweeney Law Group can help. Our team understands the unique difficulties of rideshare injury claims and will protect your rights.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself as a Rideshare Driver
Any time you get behind the wheel you are at risk of being in an accident and as a rideshare driver, you’re likely behind the wheel more than most. This not only increases your odds of being in an automobile accident, but you take on other risks providing rides to strangers. Here are a few tips you can follow to help keep you and your passengers safe while on the road.
Maintain Your Car
An important first step as an Uber or Lyft driver is confirming that your vehicle is safe and reliable. In fact, many states including Minnesota, have requirements for annual vehicle inspections. Be sure to maintain your vehicle for your and your passengers’ safety.
Practice Defensive Driving
Beyond following all traffic laws and posted speed limits, rideshare drivers should take a proactive approach to protecting themselves and their passengers by anticipating potential dangers. These defensive driving techniques focus on awareness, anticipation and reaction and include things like maintaining a safe following distance, adjusting speed and behavior according to road and weather conditions, using turn signals, monitoring surroundings and limiting distractions.
Stay Alert & Manage Fatigue
Driving while tired can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. Make sure you are well rested and take breaks during your shifts to stay alert. Get enough sleep and avoid taking any medications that could make you drowsy. If you begin to show any signs of fatigue, such as heavy eyes and excessive yawning, get some rest before picking up another passenger.
Pick Safe Pickup Locations
Choose pickup and drop off spots wisely. Pick well-lit spots or use designated pickup zones when possible. Also, verify your passengers before letting them into your car. Check their name and photo against the app’s information.
Be Prepared to Handle Difficult Passengers
It’s unfortunate. but inevitably you will end up having to deal with a difficult passenger. Try to avoid confrontation and focus on your safety. Remain calm, keep your tone neutral and if at any time you feel threatened by a passenger, pull over and end the ride. Use your app to report the incident as soon as possible and consider investing in a dash cam for your own peace of mind.
What to Do if You are in a Rideshare Accident
Even when you take every precaution some accidents are unavoidable. If you’re involved in an accident while working for a rideshare platform, you should take the following steps.
- Ensure Safety & Call 911: Like any accident, safety should be your number one concern. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call the police to report the accident and get immediate medical assistance if needed. Having an official police report will be necessary for your claim.
- Collect Evidence & Information: Gather as much information about the scene as possible including name, license plate and insurance info of any other drivers involved, witness accounts and contact info, and photos of vehicles, injuries and road conditions.
- Report the Accident: Most rideshare platforms require drivers to notify them when they are in an accident. Notify your rideshare company of the incident via their app or website. Follow the directions carefully and provide a clear description of the incident but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.
- Get Medical Care: Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and having documentation could be vital for your insurance claim.
- Review Insurance Policies: Rideshare drivers are typically covered by a combination of personal auto insurance and the rideshare company’s commercial policy.
- Consult an Attorney: Pursuing a personal injury claim against a ride-sharing company can be complex and challenging, especially when you work for that company. Contact our Minneapolis law office so we can get to work on your case right away.
Let the Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys at Brazil Sweeney Law Group Help You
If you have been injured in a car accident while driving for Lyft, Uber or another ridesharing app, trust Brazil Sweeney Law Group to fight for you. We understand the laws and regulations that govern ride-sharing services in Minnesota and will stand by you throughout the entire legal process, providing support and guidance every step of the way to get you the compensation you deserve. Call now for a free, no-obligation case review and let us get to work for you. There’s no fee unless we win.