Getting from one place to another has never been so easy, especially in today’s fast world. Just one touch of the button, and you can have a ride at your doorstep.
Lyft is one of the rideshare companies to have taken urban transport to another level. It is fast, pocket-friendly, and hassle-free. However, just like any other mode of transport, it comes with risks.
Although many find Lyft to be a valuable service, they often overlook its darker side. The reality is that suffering an injury in a Lyft rideshare is a real possibility. From minor fender-benders to severe accidents, every time you buckle up in a Lyft vehicle, you are putting yourself at risk.
The Rise of Lyft
Lyft arrived in 2012. Rather than a cab company, Lyft provided the ability for people to use their own cars to get rides. That simple idea grew out of control. Soon, pink mustaches were showing up on the fronts of cars all over major cities.
The company grew and expanded into thousands of new markets, serving literally millions of users. People loved it because of its easy-to-use interface, the mostly lower costs of the fares, and the friendly, casual vibe. A Lyft wasn’t just a ride; it was part of the culture.
How Lyft Works
Using Lyft really isn’t that hard. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Download the app and sign up
- Set your destination
- Choose your ride type
- Get matched with a local driver
- Track the driver’s arrival on a map
- Hop in and get on your way
- Pay and rate your ride through the app
This simplicity is critical to the appeal of Lyft. It takes the guesswork out of getting a ride, so it is perfect to serve both daily commuters and occasional users.
The Advantages of Lyft
It has many advantages over traditional ways of getting around a city. These advantages include:
- Convenience: Avoid waiting on the corner or trying to get through to a dispatcher. Your ride comes to you.
- Cost-effective: Often cheaper than a taxi, especially for longer trips.
- Cashless: Everything’s handled with the app; no fumbling for cash or worrying about tips.
- Transparency: You see your driver’s information, car details, and estimated fare up front.
- Flexibility: Several ride options allow for your preferences and budget.
- Environmental impact: It could help reduce the total number of cars on the road, therefore reducing the emission of gases into the atmosphere.
The Hidden Dangers of Injuries
There are numerous advantages to riding a Lyft. On the other side, it is a killer ride. Accidents happen, and some are disastrous. Some common types of injuries are:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is actually a painful neck injury, which would result from even a slight rear-end collision. Indications and symptoms do not appear at first; it takes days and sometimes even weeks to appear, which delays the treatment.
- Fractures: Fractures are quite common in road accidents. Fractures in which the broken bones puncture the skin are related to the risks of infection and delayed recoveries.
- Head injuries: Concussions and more serious traumatic brain injuries can occur in a rideshare accident. Even a mild head injury could cause problems with memory, concentration, and mood.
- Injuries to the spinal cord: In extreme cases, this will result in paralysis. Even incomplete spinal cord injuries may result in the partial loss of function or sensation below the level of damage.
- Psychological injuries: The psychological impact of a collision should not be underestimated. PTSD is common following severe accidents and can also cause anxiety, depression, and fear of traveling.
Causes of a Lyft Accident
There are various factors that are responsible for accidents on rides to Lyft:
- Distracted driving: The driver has to multi-task with the management of the GPS, talking and responding to the passenger, and responding to the alerts associated with the app. This can distract them from the road.
- Tiredness: Long hours in the driver’s seat could give rise to drowsy driving.
- Inexperience: Not all drivers are professionals. The more inexperienced ones may make costly mistakes.
- Vehicle maintenance: Personal cars don’t get the same level of maintenance that commercial fleets do. This can lead to issues when the vehicle is in operation.
- Rush to make money: The more rides they provide, the more money they make. This makes them break laws or overspeed, leading to accidents.
What to Do If You are Injured
Consider the steps below if you are injured in an accident while in a Lyft.
- Seek medical treatment, even for minor injuries
- Report the accident on the Lyft app
- Get the driver’s information and all possible witness contact information. Take pictures of the scene
- Do not sign anything or make a recorded statement before you have spoken to an attorney
- Preserve all medical records and all receipts
- Consult an attorney experienced in handling rideshare accidents
Lyft Insurance
Lyft provides insurance in case a driver gets into an accident, although it is a bit confusing. Again, coverage depends on what exact activity the driver was doing at the actual moment the accident occurred. This can be one of the three stages listed below.
- App off: The driver’s personal insurance is used.
- App on and waiting for a ride request: There is limited liability coverage from Lyft’s insurance.
- En route to pick up or during a ride: $1 million liability coverage.
Making Lyft Rides Safe
You cannot control everything, but you have some options to promote personal safety:
- Confirm your driver and car details before you ride
- Always wear your seatbelt
- If possible, sit in the back seat
- Follow your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, do not get in or ask them to drop you off at a safe place.
- Share trip details with a friend or family member
- Do not distract the driver with loud conversation or music
The Future of Ridesharing Safety
The future comes with enhanced safety features and different company objectives due to a better understanding of the risks associated with rideshares. Some of the expected changes are as follows:
- More driver training
- In-app emergency features
- Real-time monitoring and tracking of rides
- Advanced vehicle safety technologies
While these measures may be implemented in time to offer a safer future of ridesharing, the primary responsibility lies with the driver and the passenger.
Conclusion
Lyft has redefined how we move in our cities. It is easy and affordable. By creating an on-demand transportation ecosystem, Lyft has opened up myriad opportunities for riders and drivers alike.
Remember, every Lyft you take has its risks. From minor scrapes to life-changing events, the dangers are real and should not be taken lightly.
Be informed, take precautions, and know what to do if the worst happens, so you can enjoy the benefits of Lyft.
