Your Go-To Guide for Accidents Involving Uber and Lyft in Pennsylvania

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies are becoming the norm in Philadelphia and other major American cities. The rise of this phenomenon comes at an age of technological advancement in which people no longer need to leave their cars in the airport parking lot or identify a designated driver in their friend group. At the click of a button, Philadelphians are able to get picked up in Juniana, and left in Lansdowne. Reach out to Solomon Sherman & Gabay today to learn more about the implication of a rideshare accident. 

Leading Causes for Rideshare Accidents in Philadelphia

However, despite the ease and comfort of these rideshare services, many are involved in serious accidents that leave passengers either severely injured or even dead. Reportedly, services such as Lyft and Uber have led to a 3% increase in overall car accident fatalities. While there are many explanations for this occurrence, a circumstance in which a driver is paid for the speed at which they pick up and leave customers can ultimately end in trouble.

Here are some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents:

• Rash driving – Rash driving occurs when the vehicle operator is inconsiderate of others on the road, not to mention their own passengers. This may happen as a driver is trying to pack in as many trips as possible to make the most amount of money. Many people base their tips on the speed of their trip as well – meaning that drivers are incentivized to go as fast as possible.
• Drowsy or late-night driving – The majority of rideshare revenue comes from late night activities involving clubbing and partying. This is often because individuals do not want to assign a designated driver and appreciate the ease of Uber and Lyft. However, a driver may be drowsy after extended hours and working late at night, not to mention all the other individuals on the road who are in the same position.
• Distracted driving – As all drivers must pay attention to their app, they may be operating their vehicles while distracted. These rideshare apps are controversial as they often require drivers to accept or decline trips in a limited amount of time. This may be mere seconds, meaning there is only one opportunity to accept a trip while driving other patrons.
• Drunk driving – While it is comparatively rare for rideshare drivers to operate their vehicles while intoxicated, most people use rideshare apps during the nighttime when other people on the road are drunk and more likely to crash into someone else’s car.

What to Do After an Accident While on a Rideshare Trip

There are many steps that you should follow after an accident while on a rideshare trip. These are designed to protect you at all costs while ensuring that you are fairly compensated for any of your losses experienced by the crash, be them medical or otherwise.

1. Call the police and an ambulance
2. Take photos of the accident if possible
3. Flag down and talk with potential witnesses
4. Screenshot your ride activity on your rideshare app
5. Report the accident to the rideshare company
6. Seek the assistance of a Philadelphia Uber and Lyft attorney

Who to Turn to When You Run Out of Options

As previously mentioned, the most important thing that you can do in any situation involving an accident with a rideshare company is reach out to a Philadelphia Uber and Lyft attorney who will be able to use their experience to resecure any compensation that you are entitled to after your accident. Call Solomon Sherman & Gabay at 215-665-1100 for free consultation today.