Rideshare services have disrupted the transportation industry, allowing people without vehicles or safe rides an alternative way to get from one place to another. However, as the number of Uber & Lyft drivers increases across Central Texas, so does the number of accidents involving them. However, with the rideshare company’s corporate structure, many accident victims don’t understand their rights. An experienced Boerne car accident attorney from The Aguirre Law Firm can help explain your legal rights and options during a free case review. Contact us today to learn more.
Why Do So Many Uber and Lyft Accidents Occur?
Uber and Lyft apps log millions of miles every year. As the number of miles traveled increases, the likelihood of getting in an accident increases. The business model behind Uber and Lyft can also contribute to accidents. Leading causes of crashes our Boerne rideshare accident lawyers typically see include the following:
Lack of professional driving experience: Driving for Uber or Lyft does not require any type of special license or training. Typically, a current driver’s license and a few years of driving experience are all that it takes to drive for these companies.
Distractions: Drivers receive constant updates from the app, GPS instructions, and incoming requests for rides.
Fatigued driving: Rideshare drivers log a lot of miles. Some may drive beyond their physical capabilities. Because tired driving mimics some of the same consequences of drunk driving, it can be especially dangerous when the driver is responsible for the safety of their passengers and others on the roadway.
Navigating unfamiliar roads: Drivers may be unfamiliar with the roads, miss turns, or make mistakes that can lead to accidents.
Speeding: Drivers may speed or engage in unsafe driving practices to complete rides faster to make more money.
Unsafe parking: Drivers may drop passengers off at unsafe locations, jeopardizing their well-being when they exit the rideshare vehicle.
Vehicle maintenance issues: Because rideshare drivers rely on their vehicles for their incomes, they may delay maintenance, leading to accidents caused by worn tires, defective brakes, or other mechanical issues.
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft?
If you are injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver, you might wonder whether you can sue the rideshare company. However, in most cases, you do not sue the rideshare company. These companies have taken great efforts to classify drivers as independent contractors to insulate themselves from liability. However, they do maintain sizeable insurance policies for their drivers to cover passengers, other drivers, or pedestrians injured due to the rideshare driver’s negligence. These policies can range from $50,000 to $1 million in coverage, depending on when the accident occurred during the rideshare transaction.
An experienced Boerne rideshare accident attorney from The Aguirre Law Firm can review your situation, investigate the accident, and negotiate for fair compensation if you have a viable personal injury claim. Contact us today to take advantage of a free, no-obligation consultation. Call (210) 922-0808 now.
