One of the least complicated decisions we make in life is hailing a taxi, however in the age of immediate gratification and “apps” we have complicated this simple decision. Instead of a hand gesture towards the road, we now press a button on our phones and see a picture of our driver approaching our location. At first glance it seems like the perfect solution to transportation and protecting our safety, however who are these drivers and are their cars safe and properly insured, do you really know?
The answer is not clear, and will vary depending on your location. The proliferation of the “rideshare” companies has called into question their safety. In virtually every State taxi companies as well as limousines are regulated regarding safety, insurance, and background checks of the drivers. Another form of “ride share” is a pooled ride situation, meaning you will share the car with a stranger who is going in the same general direction in order to defray part of the cost. However there is no screening procedure for these additional passengers, increasing the potential danger during the ride. The question that each one of us must ask ourselves…Does the convenience outweigh the possible dangers of these shared rides?
Lawrence Simon, partner in the New York office of Javerbaum, Wurgaft, Hicks, Kahn, Wikstrom and Sinins has recently been appointed co-chair of the Ride Share Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice advises “Do not hesitate to reject the car when it arrives. If the vehicle is not clean or your gut tells you something is off with the Driver or shared Passenger, take the next one” Larry advises to always put your safety before convenience.
If you have suffered injuries while a passenger in a ride share vehicle, such as Uber or Lyft, call the law offices of Javerbaum, Wurgaft, Hicks, Kahn, Wikstrom and Sinins. With offices throughout New Jersey, New York City and Atlanta, we can help you any where in the Country.
