Rideshare vehicle drivers of companies like Uber and Lyft don’t have too many requirements in order to gain employment, which sometimes leads to careless driving accidents. Rideshare employees are entrusted to take passengers to places like work, school, and other places of business; however, driving in unfamiliar locations and towns can increase the chances of an accident.
Most drivers, especially those employed by Uber and Lyft, need the assistance of navigation systems, such as GPS, which can be distracting and dangerous to passengers because of the increased potential of driver errors made or lack of awareness of traffic patterns while driving. The dangers of distracted driving can be catastrophic, and the use of GPS navigation only increases the chance of an accident occurring while a rideshare drivers attempts to transport passengers to an unknown location. Rideshare accidents can cause substantial injuries and emotional damage to passengers opting to use Uber and Lyft. If you have been in a Bellevue rideshare accident because of negligence on the behalf of the rideshare driver, you may be able to seek compensation for the injuries and emotional damages you’ve endured.
Frequent Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Bellevue
Unfortunately, relying on rideshare drivers for transportation means that the causes of a potential accident are primarily out of your hands. The same factors that impact other vehicle accidents impact the likelihood of experiencing an accident with Uber or Lyft, except that the chances increase with the time spent on the road.
Accidents can also potentially happen as a result of other drivers on the road. Frequently, driving accidents occur due to rideshare driver error, including the following:
- Making illegal turns or making risky decisions when driving
- Inattentive or distracted driving behaviors
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Parking illegally
- Dangerous, hazardous, or unfamiliar road conditions
- Aggressive or reckless driving
One of the most frequent causes of rideshare accidents in Bellevue is distracted driving. The GPS is a tool that increases this behavior and is relied on for transporting passengers. Signs you may be at a greater risk of an accident includes the driver getting too distracted by GPS or getting confused over the directions. If you notice the driver is engaging in any of the behaviors above, it is best to get yourself out of the vehicle.
Potential Rideshare Injuries in Bellevue
Rideshare injuries, minor or severe, can be financially, emotionally, and physically draining for a passenger. Even if an injury looks to be less severe, it may develop over time. Anytime you are injured in an accident, it is imperative that you seek medical attention promptly in order to document the injuries you’ve endured and to have proof it is linked to a rideshare accident. Depending on the type of accident, you may experience the following injuries:
- Scrapes, cuts, and lesions
- Contusions
- Head and neck injuries
- Whiplash
- Chest injuries
- Concussions
- Spinal cord and nerve damage
- Brain injuries
- Back injuries
- Paralysis
- Herniated discs
- Death
If you have endured any of the injuries above, it is best to have a medical professional evaluate the severity of your injuries and recommend a treatment plan best for you. Medical professionals may also be able to pinpoint dormant injuries that may develop after the rideshare accident.
Speak with an experienced Bellevue rideshare accident lawyer if a negligent driver caused your injuries. We may be able to recover the compensation owed to you for the losses you’ve endured.
Speak with an Experienced Bellevue Rideshare Accident Lawyer at Premier Law Group
Uber and Lyft accident claims can be extensive and complex. These companies are aggressive in their defense, and their insurers want to settle the claims as quickly as possible for as little payment as possible. At Premier Law Group, we understand how to navigate the legal process so that you get access to the financial compensation you deserve for your losses.
Being involved in a rideshare accident can leave you with life-altering injuries and mounting expenses. The legal team at Premier Law Group offers compassionate, client-oriented, and specialized representation to handle your unique rideshare accident case. To speak with a skilled rideshare accident lawyer, call (206) 880-7518 or fill out our contact form.