Any car accident is scary, but a wreck involving a rideshare service or taxi can be particularly troubling. You might not only be severely injured, but there’s also a chance you might have a hard time getting the compensation you deserve. To learn more about taxis vs. ridesharing and which one is safer, keep reading.
An attorney with The Eberst Law Firm will fight hard for your rights, working to ensure you get every dollar you have coming to you. Contact us online or call 1-888-CALL-JON for a free consultation.
Background Checks for New Drivers
Taxis and ridesharing companies screen their drivers before allowing them to pick up passengers, but the screening processes differ. Taxis usually require their drivers to undergo a background check and have a clean driving record.
However, ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft have more rigorous screening processes, which include criminal background checks, driving history checks, and vehicle inspections. Ridesharing companies also use technology to monitor drivers’ behavior, including speed and route.
Some common reasons why someone may be ineligible to drive for a taxi company include the following:
- A history of driving offenses
- A criminal record
- A poor driving record
- Lack of a valid driver’s license
- A history of substance abuse
Rideshare companies follow similar procedures regarding how they eliminate prospective drivers from consideration. However, they may also disqualify drivers for poor ratings or violations of their safety policies.
Taxi Services
The following are some of the pros and cons regarding the safety of taxis.
Pros
Taxis are often owned and operated by taxi companies, which usually have maintenance facilities and mechanics to ensure their vehicles are in good working condition.
Cons
One of the major cons of taxis regarding safety is the lack of regulation and oversight in some areas. Taxis are often subject to less stringent safety standards than rideshare companies, which can lead to a higher risk of accidents and injuries. In addition, the traditional taxi-hailing process may put passengers in vulnerable situations, such as standing alone on the street at night, increasing the risk of robbery or assault.
Ridesharing Services
There are also pros and cons when it comes to rideshare safety. Here’s a quick look at each.
Pros
Ridesharing companies do not own their vehicles; instead, drivers use their cars to provide rides. But most have policies to ensure drivers’ vehicles are well-maintained and meet safety standards.
Cons
Although rideshare companies have implemented background checks and training requirements for their drivers, there have been cases where unqualified individuals have slipped through the cracks.
Additionally, rideshare drivers are subject to different regulations than taxi drivers, which can result in inconsistencies in safety standards. There have also been concerns about the safety of passengers who may be picked up by strangers and taken to unfamiliar locations.
Finally, rideshare drivers may be more susceptible to distractions while driving, such as looking at their phones to navigate. These errors can increase the risk of accidents, leading to severe injuries requiring extensive treatment and physical therapy.
Do All Companies Provide Insurance Benefits to Their Drivers?
Both taxis and ridesharing companies have insurance policies that cover accidents that occur during a ride, but the amount and type of coverage differ. Taxis usually have commercial insurance that covers passengers and third-party liability. Ridesharing companies also have insurance policies that cover passengers and third-party liability. Still, the coverage may vary depending on the stage of the ride (i.e., whether the driver is en route to pick up a passenger, has a passenger in the car, or is waiting for a ride request).
Getting into an Accident: Taxis vs. Ridesharing
There are several key differences in how these companies handle the situation when it comes to accidents involving taxis and rideshare companies.
Taxi companies typically have insurance policies that cover their drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. They also have procedures in place for reporting accidents and handling insurance claims. However, the process can often be lengthy and complicated, with passengers sometimes left to navigate the legal process on their own.
In contrast, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that cover their drivers and passengers. They also have in-app features that allow passengers to report accidents and contact emergency services quickly.
Which One is Safer?
Both taxis and ridesharing services have safety features in place to protect passengers, but the level and types of safety features differ. Taxis usually have safety features such as seat belts, airbags, and GPS tracking.
Ridesharing companies have implemented safety features that go beyond those of taxis. For example, they use technology to monitor drivers’ behavior. They also have in-app safety features, such as an emergency button and a ridesharing feature that lets friends and family track a passenger’s ride in real-time.
As you can see, both taxis and ridesharing services have pros and cons regarding safety. While ridesharing companies have more rigorous driver screening processes and advanced safety features, taxis have more comprehensive insurance coverage. They’re also more likely to have well-maintained vehicles.
Ultimately, passengers should use their best judgment and take precautions when using either mode of transportation, such as wearing a seatbelt and verifying the driver’s identity before getting into the car.
Steps to Take if You’re Involved in a Ridesharing or Taxi Accident
If you find yourself in this situation, taking specific steps to protect yourself and any other passengers involved is essential.
The first step is to ensure everyone is safe and call for medical attention if necessary. Then, gather information from the driver, including their name, contact information, and insurance details. Take photos of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles involved.
Next, report the accident to the ridesharing or taxi company and your insurance provider. Contacting an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages is also a good idea.
Contact The Eberst Law Firm to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
An attorney with The Eberst Law Firm can help you obtain compensation if you’ve suffered an injury in an accident involving a rideshare or taxi service. Call 1-888-CALL-JON or use our online contact form to schedule a free case review.
