What Should I Do If My Rideshare Driver is Drunk?

Most people turn to ridesharing to enjoy a safe, affordable trip from one location to another, but what happens when a rideshare driver operates the vehicle erratically, or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol? In this case, riders need to understand the best way to get themselves out of harm’s way.

Ridesharing passengers always have the right to tell their drivers that they want to end a trip at any time, particularly if they feel that the driver is not in total control. They should not feel uncomfortable asking the driver to find a safe place to pull over, such as in the parking lot of an open gas station or restaurant, so they can get out. If the driver will not end the ride or respond to the rider, the rider should call 911 immediately and report what is occurring.

What Happens if the Rideshare Driver Gets into an Accident?

In a worst-case scenario where an rideshare driver is drunk driving, the rider may end up becoming the victim of a car accident. Thousands of crashes occur every year because of drunk drivers. Unfortunately, a rideshare driver could potentially cause a collision that leads to serious injuries or even loss of life. Riders should therefore understand what steps to take post-wreck.

After a rideshare accident, the injured rider should seek medical attention on the scene. If possible, the rider, other passengers, or witnesses should document the scene by taking pictures and video. This information will help later when making a claim against both the driver and the rideshare company. Down the road, the injured victim may also want to obtain a copy of the police record indicating that the rideshare driver was intoxicated at the time of the crash.

Who is Responsible for Injuries Suffered in a Drunk Driving Accident?

All rideshare drivers must maintain their own vehicle insurance as part of their agreement to be independent contractors. In addition to this vehicle insurance, the rideshare company will also carry insurance, which goes into effect when any vehicle is being used for the app’s ridesharing purposes. This means that any person who suffers a crash-related injury because of a drunk rideshare driver may wind up filing a claim with the driver’s insurance, as well as the rideshare company’s insurance.

Though taking this step may seem easy, many victims prefer to work with car accident lawyers who specialize in helping clients recover damages after wrecks. It is not always simple to recover damages from insurance providers. Anyone who suffered significantly may be entitled to repayment for medical costs, lost wages, and even emotional losses. Having an attorney assist in fighting for damages makes life less stressful for an individual trying to recover from a devastating crash.

Camden Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Help Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents Recover Damages

If you were injured after your rideshare driver got into a drunk driving accident, contact a Camden car accident lawyer at DiTomaso Law. We will review your case and hold the negligent party accountable. Call us at 856-414-0010 or contact us online for a free consultation today. Located in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Mt. Holly, Camden County, and Vineland.
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