With ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft becoming more popular for transportation, many people wonder how common ridesharing accidents are. In New York City, the most commonly used ridesharing service is Uber. Like any other type of auto accident, Uber accidents can happen at any time and place due to negligence. If you have been injured while on a ridesharing service, you need the right legal representation. Keep reading to learn why Uber accidents are common and discover how an adept New York City Ridesharing Accident Attorney can help you navigate your legal options.
What are ridesharing services?
Ridesharing is a service that arranges one-way transportation to a specific destination. Ridesharing services connect drivers with passengers. Uber is a ridesharing platform where those who drive can connect with individuals who need rides to certain locations. Uber is available in most cities, allowing those without a license or a vehicle to access an outlet of private transportation for a fee. When you download the app, you can plug in your current location and your destination. The app will send the nearest driver to pick you up. Then the app will display an estimated arrival time. According to research, the national total for Uber drivers is between three and four million. That being said, many people wonder how common Uber accidents are.
Are Uber accidents common in New York?
Uber, being one of the largest ridesharing companies, takes many precautions to prevent serious accidents and injuries. This includes doing extensive background checks on their drivers and determining whether any red flags on their driving record would make them high-risk drivers. If you have been injured in a ridesharing accident, you may be unsure of how to proceed as liability can be difficult to establish. In most cases, the driver and Uber can be held liable if their negligent actions directly caused a collision.
Many ridesharing companies do not disclose their accident statistics to the public. However, research has shown that on average there are at least one hundred fatalities annually. Additionally, it indicates that 25% of the country’s population uses Uber or Lyft at least once a month. It is also shown that 90% of Uber accidents occur in urban areas. This is likely because Uber drivers spend more time on the road than other drivers, increasing their likelihood of being involved in collisions.
What should I do if I am involved in a rideshare accident?
If you have been injured in an accident during a ridesharing service, you should take the following steps if you are physically able to do so:
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Stay at the scene of the accident until the police have arrived.
- File a police report documenting the collision.
- Screenshot the Uber driver’s information from the app.
- Exchange information with your rideshare driver.
- Collect evidence at the accident scene such as pictures and video footage of the damage.
- Gather contact information from any witnesses that can corroborate your claim.
- Retain the legal services of a qualified New York City ride-sharing accident attorney who can help you secure the fair compensation you deserve.
If you have sustained major injuries in an accident with Uber or another rideshare service, you need a determined New York City ride-sharing accident attorney on your side. With years of experience, you can trust our firm to help you seek financial compensation for your damages.