There are many great things that technology has brought into our daily lives. Further, much of the population in Chicago would have a tougher time getting around without rideshare apps. Although, technology does not come without risks, including car accidents.
Whether you carry your iPad with you everywhere, refuse to leave home without your smart phone, or can’t seem to recall life before a laptop existed, odds are that technology affects many of your daily activities.
How Does Lyft Work?
Technology changed the transportation game in Illinois with the arrival of Lyft. It’s a peer-to-peer ridesharing program that is now in more than 200 cities across the country, including Chicago.
Lyft works by enabling those in need of a ride to request exactly that through the use of an app. In response, a Lyft driver will pick up that rider and take him or her to a location of choice.
Lyft has a relatively wide service area. They will accommodate riders anywhere in their area, which makes using the app to travel relatively easy and flexible.
Lyft functions much like an on-demand cab service with fees that are often lower. Further, riders often report great satisfaction in the trips they take.
What are the Safety Issues with Lyft Rides in Chicago?
With all of the positives associated with Lyft, it may be surprising to some users to consider the fact that there are numerous drawbacks with electing this mode of transit.
First, Lyft vehicles are not regulated to the same extent that many other vehicles offering rides to the public are regulated. Riders often use Lyft and assume that the vehicle taking them to their destination is safe.
Lyft advertises minimum requirements for its vehicles and says that all vehicles undergo a 19-point inspection before being cleared to operate. However, this should not provide a lot of comfort for riders.
Much can be missed in a general inspection and a vehicle can sustain damage or run into problems after the inspection occurs, leading to a potentially dangerous ride. These cars are also unfamiliar to passengers.
Riders will not know if the vehicle’s brakes have been showing signs of wear or that an in-dash unit is not functioning as it should. In the worst situations, a mechanical failure may take place and lead to a car accident.
In a similar vein, passengers cannot control the actions of the individuals who operate a Lyft vehicle. Drivers are rated based upon past performance but there is no guarantee that ratings are accurate.
Do Lyft Operators Have an Incentive to Drive Recklessly?
Instead, some drivers may speed, or fail to stop completely at red lights or stop signs. This, to get riders to their locations faster.
Fast driving may appeal to some riders, and it could allow a driver to receive higher ratings. However, reckless conduct increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries to both passengers and innocent people who happen to be in the area.
Many forms of transportation require passengers to lose a degree of control over their own safety. But other transit options have more regulations at the state and local level than Lyft. This provides those other forms of transportation with greater safety requirements.
What Should I do After a Lyft Car Accident in Chicago?
Lyft collisions happen with regularity in Illinois. If you are in a crash, there are certain steps you should take to protect yourself and your rights.
You should always cooperate with local law enforcement officers as they conduct their investigation. Many investigations take place at the scene of the crash, and some may even require additional follow up at a later time.
No matter the length of an investigation, it is a good idea to cooperate. Be honest when police ask questions.
And if you are a Lyft passenger with injuries, do not walk away from the scene before police arrive. You may be left off the police report, and this can create insurance claim issues.
If you sustain injuries in an accident, make your health a priority. Victims of accidents who seek medical treatment quickly often fare better than those who wait to get help.
Sometimes, injuries can worsen as time progresses. Injuries are often masked by adrenaline in the moments immediately following a collision. They may not set in fully for a few hours or even a day after a crash. No matter the timing, make sure you seek help if you need it.
Should You Contact a Chicago Lyft Accident Lawyer at Abels & Annes, P.C.?
Finally, if your Lyft accident happened in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois, know that state law protects the rights of accident victims. Often, riders with injuries from Lyft accidents can make a claim for their damages. Further, they can use the services of a personal injury attorney to assist them at every step of their claim.
If you have questions about your options or if you need help, call the legal team at Abels & Annes, P.C. for a free consultation. We have a licensed attorney available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to speak with you.
Further, there’s no fee unless you win your case. You can reach us toll free at (855) LAW-CHICAGO (529-2442), locally at (312) 924-7575, or online at your convenience.
If you were injured in a Chicago Lyft accident, call Abels & Annes, P.C. at (855) 529-2442 for a free case consultation.