Introduction
Uber and Lyft have changed the way people commute, but with them comes a new set of problems pertaining to accidents. We will discuss all aspects relating to rideshare accidents by highlighting the intersections of law, the attorney’s review of medical records, and client actions in incidents of this nature.
Understanding rideshare accidents, however, we will first elaborate on its factors and solutions.
Defining the Parameters of Rideshare Accident Liability
1.1 Definition Scope
• Descriptive: A rideshare accident is defined as an accident involving vehicles driven by rideshare drivers. This class of accidents pose unique challenges with respect to liability and insurance.
• Statistical: Rideshare related accidents have been on the rise since 2019, and as of now the number sits at 20% within urban centres, according to NHTSA the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
2.1 A Cluster of Frequent Rideshare Accident Connections
Speeding: The need to finish off rides in record time riddles drivers with the notion to drive unsafely.
Poor vehicle maintenance: Accidents can also be caused by neglecting upkeep of the vehicle.
2.2 Document the Scene
• Details: Documenting the accident includes taking photos of the accident location, vehicle damages, and any injuries sustained.
• Importance: Documented evidence is a vital component for legal claims.
2.3 Gather Information
• What to Collect: Collect contact information with insurance details from all relevant people including bystanders or witnesses.
• Significance: This information is essential in determining who will be responsible for the accident.
The Role of Medical Records Review in Rideshare Accident Cases
3.1 Importance for Attorneys
• Overview: Gaining access to medical records is crucial for medical examinations for preparing strong legal arguments regarding injuries and treatments sent and done.
• Process: Reviewing all documented treatments, including interventions and processes, to the accident injury.
3.2 Key Components of Medical Records Review
• Injury Documentation: Gaining information in reference to injuries as applied to different processes of the accident.
• Treatment History: Outlining the dates when medical treatments were done and any subsequent treatment necessary.
• Impact on Daily Life: Assessing injuries as they relate to the victim’s day-to-day activities and overall functioning.
3.3 Challenges in Medical Records Review
• Data Accessibility: Collecting all relevant medical documents can be time consuming.
• Legal Compliance: Guideline set forth by HIPAA on the use of patient information is another area of concern while obtaining patient detials.
Legal Aspects of Accidents Related to Rideshare Services
4.1 Issues on Liability
• Overview: Liability is still an ongoing issue that may include the ridesharing company’s driver or even other third parties.
• Vicarious Responsibility: Under some conditions, rideshare companies can be responsible for what their drivers do.
4.2 Frequent Legal Issues
• Negligence: A driver’s conduct is more likely to give claim in the absence of reasonable care.
• Product Liability: These are claims on crashes the rideshare vehicle and rideshare app software cause to a given motor vehicle.
4.3 Illustrative Cases
Case Study 1: Uber Accident Liability
• Overview: A passenger using Uber had sustained injuries as a result of an accident.
• Challenges: Trying to prove if the said driver was within his scope of employment towards the accident.
• Solutions: An audit of the driver’s logs and trip logs was sufficiently helpful.
Case Study 2: Lyft Driver Negligence
• Overview: A pedestrian was hit by a Lyft driver who was operating the car while looking at their phone.
• Challenges: Establishing driver’s negligence and distraction at the accident time.
• Solutions: The pedestrian’s medical records revealed significant injuries, supporting the argument.
Rideshare Accident Trends and Statistics (2024)
5.1 Increases in Accident Statistics
• Statistical Data: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety suggests a 15% increase in rideshare accident fatalities for 2024.
5.2 Recent Changes in Law
• Legislation Trends: New laws being discussed may clarify liability in rideshare accidents, changing how these cases may be handled later on.
5.3 Improvements from Technology and Safety
• Innovations: Newer safety features being added to rideshare company apps, like driver emergency buttons and background checks, are aimed at lowering accidents.
Conclusion
Navigating through rideshare accidents requires understanding the legal approach, steps to take, and the medical record check. Victims and attorneys can navigate these complex accidents if they are equipped, allowing victims to get the compensation that they are entitled to unlike others who do not.
