In 2017, Uber had 40 million customers per month, dominating the ride-hailing market in the United States. Passengers prefer booking an Uber over traditional taxis because of the convenience it provides to them. The ride-hailing service has its advantages, but it also comes with drawbacks, mainly that it is susceptible to car crashes.
Being involved in a car accident as a passenger while ride-sharing can be complicated. Seeking compensation can be confusing, too, because there are different insurers involved. In cases like this, you’ll need an experienced Uber accident attorney in Los Angeles to help you file personal injury claims.
Higher Fatal Car Crash Cases
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that the total number of traffic fatalities was low in 2010. This figure, however, started to go up in the following years. Experts believe that the rise of ride-sharing contributed to the gradual increase of traffic fatalities in the country.
In California alone, the total traffic fatalities reached 3,623 in 2016, which was seven percent higher than in the previous year. In 2017, the state decided to tighten rules on ride-sharing companies, like Uber, in response to the concerns related to the safety of riders.
Ride-sharing companies believe that these observations are “deeply flawed.” Uber, in particular, highlights its efforts to ensure the safety of every passenger who uses its services.
Focusing on Passengers’ Safety
When you’re using ride-sharing services, you entrust your safety to the driver. Uber has updated its app with new safety features to give riders peace of mind during their trip. These features include the following:
- Safety Center– a place where you can learn about vital safety information. You can have access to tips created in partnership with law enforcement, insurance protection, driver screening process, and community guidelines.
- Trusted Contacts– this feature reminds you to share trip details to people listed in your trusted contacts. The details include the driver’s first name, vehicle information, and map location in real-time.
- 911 Assistance– Uber plans to include an emergency button on its app, which will directly connect you with 911. You can also see your real-time location to make it easier for you to inform the 911 operator about it. The company works continually to improve this feature further.
- Annual Background Check Reruns– the company will now proactively perform background check reruns, whether or not the law requires it. Uber will look into a driver’s criminal and motor vehicle records.
Uber does its best to protect its riders from any incidents. But the effectiveness of these features won’t be evident until months into their implementation. For now, it’s a driver’s responsibility to keep every rider safe.
Handling Car Incidents while Ride-sharing
Despite safety features, car crashes could still occur for different reasons. When you’re taking a trip, always practice precaution. For example, don’t forget to buckle up because seatbelts can minimize the injuries you may incur during an accident.
Getting involved in a car crash entitles you to a variety of compensations. At Haffner Law, our experienced personal injury attorney can assist you throughout the process for a smoother negotiation.
We’ll represent you in court to defend your rights so you’ll receive the compensation you deserve. Our team provides free, no-obligation personal injury consultations or case reviews.
Contact us today to learn more.
(This is an attorney advertisement by Joshua Haffner)