Ride-Sharing Accidents

Whether it’s Uber or Lyft or any others, behind the convenience of such popular ride-sharing services is a list of risks and liabilities.

Ride-sharing is all the rage right now, with many young people opting for the convenience and affordability of catching a ride with local drivers at the tap of a touchscreen. Popular ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft have exploded in ridership in the last few years, raising some significant legal questions. Most importantly:

• How do you know as a passenger that you will be safe in a ride-sharing situation?
• How can you be certain that your driver is competent and is not impaired behind the wheel?

The truth is, neither the ride-sharing companies nor local law enforcement do any kind of background check procedures when it comes to accepting new drivers.

The Risks

Ride-sharing passengers have been involved in a variety of accidents and other dangerous incidents since the businesses have started cropping up. From passengers being taken along on a high-speed chase by a driver with a criminal history to the death and injury of passengers involved in a multi-car crash – stories of ride-sharing don't always end well. In other words your hired driver may not be any more capable of protecting you than any other car owner.

Common Ride-Sharing Injuries

Passengers involved in a ride-sharing accident may suffer from injuries such as:

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Whiplash and other back and neck issues
• Psychological injuries (e.g. emotional distress or PTSD)
• Facial and dental injuries (e.g. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, a.k.a TMJ)
• Bone Fractures
• Amputations
• or others.

In some cases, family and friends of those involved in a ride-sharing accident may be left to deal with the pain and expenses related to a fatality.

What You Can Do

Of course, these accidents may not be the fault of the ride-sharing service driver at all, and everyone in the car may be considered a victim. No matter what the case, your injuries and issues after the fact are not your fault. Even if you're not sure who is at fault or where to begin, it's important to seek the help of a good lawyer as soon as possible to work through the details of your situation—especially with the unique insurance issues that can be involved with ride-sharing services.

If you've been injured in a car accident while using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, you may be legally entitled to receive damages. If you've incurred medical bills related to ongoing treatments and/or physical therapy after the accident, you should not be responsible for those costs.

The Law Offices of James O. Cunningham, P.A. has a wealth of experience in the area of Florida motor vehicle accidents and personal injury law, and can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today to schedule your free initial consultation: 877-FL-INJURY (877-354-6587).