Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation, offering convenience and accessibility. However, the convenience of rideshare services can sometimes come with risks, including accidents, physical harm, or even instances of assault. When passengers’ safety is compromised, rideshare companies may bear responsibility.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston personal injury attorneys focus on helping victims of rideshare-related injuries and assaults in Texas pursue justice and accountability. Here’s what you need to know.
Rideshare Safety Obligations
Rideshare companies operate as technology platforms connecting drivers and passengers, often avoiding the label of a traditional transportation provider. However, they are not exempt from ensuring passenger safety.
Their responsibilities include:
- Thorough Driver Background Checks: Companies must screen drivers for criminal records, DUIs, and other disqualifying offenses.
- Vehicle Inspections: Ensuring vehicles meet safety standards is critical.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Many apps use GPS tracking and other technologies to monitor rides and enhance passenger safety.
- Policies Against Assault and Harassment: Zero-tolerance policies are in place, but enforcement is critical.
Despite these measures, lapses in accountability can lead to unsafe situations.
Common Safety Issues in Rideshare Services
While companies like Uber and Lyft implement safety measures to protect passengers, lapses in these systems can lead to severe incidents. Understanding the common safety challenges in rideshare services can help victims recognize their rights and seek accountability when standards fall short.
They include:
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can result from driver error, poor vehicle maintenance, or external factors. Determining liability in these cases often requires evaluating whether the driver was “on the clock” during the accident and whether the company provided adequate oversight.
Instances of physical or sexual assault by rideshare drivers, while rare, are deeply concerning. Rideshare companies are expected to vet drivers thoroughly and respond swiftly to passenger complaints.
- Negligent Hiring Practices
Inadequate background checks or failure to address previous complaints against a driver can result in rideshare companies being held liable for harm caused by their drivers.
Under Texas law, companies may be held vicariously liable for the actions of their drivers if it can be proven that the driver was acting within the scope of employment at the time of the incident. If a rideshare company fails to uphold its duty of care in screening or managing drivers, victims can pursue claims for negligent hiring, retention, or supervision.
Overcoming Challenges in Holding Rideshare Companies Accountable
To limit their liability, rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This distinction can complicate cases where the company’s accountability is questioned.
In addition, many rideshare companies include arbitration clauses in their terms of service, which can limit passengers’ ability to file lawsuits in court. Legal guidance is crucial in navigating these clauses.
To help build your case, proving negligence or liability requires robust evidence, including:
- GPS and trip data.
- Driver background checks and records.
- Eyewitness testimonies or surveillance footage.
If you’ve been injured or assaulted during a rideshare trip, take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Contact Authorities Immediately: Report the incident to local law enforcement.
- Seek Medical Attention: Document any injuries and receive necessary treatment.
- Gather Evidence: Take screenshots of your rideshare receipt, driver information, and trip details.
- File a Complaint: Notify the rideshare company of the incident.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we understand the complexities of rideshare injury and assault cases. Our team in Houston is experienced in holding major rideshare companies accountable for their failures to protect passengers. We can help by thoroughly investigating the incident, navigating complex insurance and liability issues, and pursuing maximum compensation for medical bills, emotional trauma, and other damages.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys at Hollingsworth Law Firm
Contact our dedicated Harris County personal injury attorneys at the Hollingsworth Law Firm today for a free case evaluation. Call 713-637-4560 or contact us online.
Our dedicated bilingual personal injury attorneys and support team serve clients across Texas on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we secure a successful outcome for your case. If you’re ready to seek the compensation you deserve, we will stand by your side and lead the way.
