Ridesharing is a car service that allows people to arrange a ride in a privately owned vehicle using a smartphone app.
Unfortunately, ridesharing services aren’t free of problems. Many Uber riders are known to experience an issue of some kind. If you’ve been in an accident, hiring competent rideshare accident attorneys will ensure that your rights are protected.
Why do people choose ridesharing apps?
Ridesharing offers significant benefits to its users. Here are some of them:
- Affordable compared to taxis
- Option to carpool, significantly cutting costs
- User-friendliness makes it convenient to use
- Quick, easy, and budget-friendly option for the daily commute to work
- Various payment options, including automatic card or PayPal payment.
Case history against ridesharing apps
Uber had a revenue of $38 billion in March 2024. However, it has been subject to lawsuits in every category, from discrimination against its drivers to sexual assault cases.
In 2013, a six-year-old was run over by an Uber driver in San Franciso because he was distracted by his phone.
Over 500 women across the United States have sued Uber for sexual assault by its drivers.
Uber drivers have caused over 50 fatalities and a significant number of injuries through their errors.
Uber has also been fined in Europe and Australia for misclassifying its drivers and unfair competition practices.
In other words, ridesharing services are not 100% safe. Users of such services run the risk of being robbed, being in an accident, or being assaulted.
Regulations on ridesharing apps
There are regulations in place on the federal and state levels that require ridesharing companies to follow a set of rules to protect their drivers and passengers. Some of them include:
- Background checks on their drivers
- Drivers are required to have chauffer licenses
- Drivers are required to display a phone number for complaints
- Drivers are required to have personal insurance that covers the costs of any accidents
- Drivers are required to drive vehicles that have been inspected regularly
Safety tips for using ridesharing services
- Book a ride while you’re indoors to avoid being distracted.
- Check your driver’s reviews/ratings.
- Always check the license plate and driver before getting on.
- Make sure you share your ride details with a loved one so they can track you.
- Wear your seatbelt.
- Be aware of your surroundings while on the ride.
- Don’t share your personal information with your driver.
What to do if you’re in an accident
If you’re ever in an accident while using a ridesharing service, make sure you’re okay first. Contact medical services if necessary and make a record of the accident. Never admit fault, as this could result in your losing your right to compensation.
Accidents involving ridesharing services can become complicated as they involve several parties – the driver, the ridesharing company, the passenger, and any other parties involved in the accident.
Ridesharing apps bring an incredible level of convenience to their users. However, as a user, it is up to you to be aware of the hazards involved and be adequately prepared for such situations.
