These days, there are many Uber and Lyft drivers on the road as their services have replaced traditional taxis in many areas. However, driving an Uber or a Lyft doesn't come without its consequences. After all, driving any vehicle can have its share of dangers such as collisions. If a collision happens, a local personal injury attorney can help. Here are the types of accidents Uber and Lyft drivers may have.
When driving your Lyft or Uber, you must adhere to the same rules and regulations as other drivers. Therefore, it's not the time to be distracted. Your priorities should be the road and the speed limit. Any time while driving is not the time to fool around on social media or be distracted by unnecessary phone calls. If you want to have small talk with the passenger, don't do it to the point where you're sacrificing your focus on the road.
If you're driving your Uber or Lyft all day, it's natural to get hungry. However, you should have your meal time between rides. Eating while driving a car means both of your hands aren't on the wheel, which impacts your ability to react and prevent an accident.
When driving on the road, there's more to worry about than other cars. Other things are on the road like motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, and more. Motorcycles often have a very high maximum speed and may zig-zag between traffic. Remember, motorcycle drivers don't have the same level of protection as someone inside a traditional vehicle. If you collide with a motorcycle, it can cause devastating injury to that motorcyclist especially if driving at high speeds.
An equally fragile mode of transportation is bicycle riding. As a driver, you must remain vigilant and cautious around all bicycles. Make sure you're aware of the separation between the bike lane and the main road. If you enter the bike lane, immediately cross back into traffic lanes to avoid collision with a bicyclist.
Potential collisions go beyond just other drivers. You can also be at fault for hitting a pedestrian. Make sure to slow down when approaching a crosswalk and give pedestrians the right of way. Even if the light turns green, be aware of somebody who is still crossing or about to cross. A pedestrian being hit by a car can result in devastating injuries and fatalities. A hit-and-run with a pedestrian can result in a major charge, such as manslaughter.
Of course, car accidents may happen due to the negligence of another driver. Even if you follow all the rules of the road and are a five-star Uber or Lyft driver, another driver may collide with you due to tailgating, making a wrong turn, or being distracted. Always stop in a safe location if your car has been hit and exchange insurance information with the other driver. If the other driver doesn't stop, you should still call the police to file a report. If you need to contact a local personal injury attorney for help, you'll need as much information as possible to receive compensation.
A car accident due to your negligence or the negligence of another driver can result in passenger injury. If the passenger in your Uber or Lyft is injured due to your negligence, you’ll be liable for their injuries. When another driver is at fault, getting as much information as possible and filing an official report is essential for your passenger. Your actions will provide the information they need for their legal rights. According to LegalJobs, your compensation may increase by as much as 440% when you hire a legal personal injury professional to assist you.
Unfortunately, driving or riding in a Lyft or Uber doesn’t mean an accident won't happen. These collisions can happen with other cars, motorcyclists, bikers, and pedestrians. As a driver, you or your passenger may also get hurt in an accident, so it's essential to understand your legal rights for representation to ensure compensation. We’re an experienced law firm who can help you with these issues. When you need a quality local personal injury attorney, contact The Law Offices of Michael F. Mahoney for a consultation.
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