Uber and Lyft have become extremely popular rideshare options in the San Bernardino area, and these services complete billions of trips across the globe each year. While both Uber and Lyft are generally very safe, riders should still be cautious and make sure they take the proper precautions to keep themselves protected.
If you plan to use Uber or Lyft soon, keep reading below to learn the must-know safety tips for riders in the San Bernardino area.
#1: Verify the Vehicle and Driver
When you ride with Uber or Lyft, the app will give you detailed information about your driver and their vehicle.
Before getting into the vehicle and starting the ride, you should verify:
- The driver’s name and photo
- The make, model, and color of the vehicle
- The vehicle’s license plate number
If anything does not match, do not get into the vehicle. You can also check your driver’s ratings on the app, and that can give you an idea of the driver’s professionalism and history with other riders.
#2: Confirm Your Destination
Once you have verified the driver’s information, it’s time to hop in and start the ride. Before you get on the road, you should always confirm your destination with the driver. This is an extra precaution just to ensure you are both on the same page.
Also, keep an eye on your app to ensure the driver stays on the appropriate route. If the driver strays from the expected route, speak up and ask the driver to end the ride if anything feels off.
#3: Share Your Trip Status
Uber and Lyft both have built-in safety features you can use to increase your safety when using their services. It is always a good idea to share your trip status with a friend or family member.
This will send important information from the app to your friend or family member, such as:
- Driver information
- Vehicle information
- Real-time route tracking
Giving someone else access to this information serves as extra peace of mind that you will safely make it to your destination.
#4: Always Stay on the App
Never accept a ride from someone who claims to be an Uber or Lyft driver outside the app. This is dangerous for several reasons, and it removes all of the built-in protections that these companies offer. The driver might actually have no affiliation with either service, and they could be dangerous. Always use the app to schedule and complete rides.
#5: Trust Your Instincts
Perhaps the best safety tip is to trust your instincts when using Uber and Lyft. If something doesn’t feel right, then do not get into the vehicle or, if you are already in the vehicle, end the ride immediately. If the driver is driving dangerously or you feel uncomfortable, you can ask them to pull over so that you can end the ride and exit the vehicle.
Getting Help After an Uber or Lyft Incident
Even with the best safety precautions, accidents and incidents still happen. According to Uber’s Safety Reports, incidents of physical assault, sexual assault, rape, and other misconduct are very rare, but they do happen. Victims of this type of conduct can suffer both physical and emotional injuries. The law allows these victims to recover both economic damages and non-economic damages for their injuries.
Some common damages in these cases include:
- Medical bills
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- PTSD
- Depression and anxiety
- Diminished quality of life
These types of cases can sometimes be challenging since Uber and Lyft drivers are not considered employees of the company. Instead, they are classified as contractors. You will likely need the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you prove your case and hold the responsible party accountable.
Contact the San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyers at Kenny Ramirez Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in San Bernardino, CA, Kenny Ramirez Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a San Bernardino car accident attorney and let us help you get the justice you deserve.
Kenny Ramirez Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers
325 W Hospitality Ln Suite 204, San Bernardino, CA 92408
(909) 515-0646