1 in 3 Illinois Rideshare Drivers Get in Accidents: What Passengers Need to Know
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
A startling recent study from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has uncovered significant data on the frequency of rideshare accidents, revealing that approximately one in three rideshare drivers report having been involved in a crash while working. This research brings to light critical safety concerns for millions of Illinois residents who regularly use apps like Uber and Lyft.
The findings arrive amid a period of heightened awareness of road safety in the Chicago area. Recent incidents, including a multi-vehicle crash that shut down the Edens Expressway in Northbrook and a tragic collision at a local Portillo's restaurant, underscore the unpredictable nature of traffic accidents. While not all incidents involve rideshares, they collectively highlight the importance of understanding your rights as a passenger on Illinois roads.
Understanding the rideshare accident risk
The UIC study, which surveyed rideshare and delivery drivers, provides a clearer picture of the risks associated with this modern form of transportation. The high frequency of accidents can be attributed to several factors that drivers face, including navigating unfamiliar areas, distractions from the app, and the pressure to complete trips quickly.
For passengers, this data is a crucial reminder that accidents can happen even when you're not behind the wheel. The aftermath of a rideshare crash can be more complex than a standard auto accident, often involving questions of liability between the rideshare driver, another motorist, and the multi-layered insurance policies of the rideshare company itself.
Protecting your rights after a Chicago rideshare crash
If you are a passenger injured in a rideshare accident, knowing what steps to take immediately is vital to protecting your health and your legal rights.
- Seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, get a professional medical evaluation immediately, as some symptoms may appear hours or days later
- Document the scene: If you are able, take photos of the vehicles involved, your location, license plates, and any visible injuries. Collect the names and contact information of the drivers and any witnesses
- Report the accident: Ensure the accident is reported to the police and to the rideshare company through their app, and request a copy of the police report
- Understand the insurance landscape: Rideshare companies are required to carry insurance, but the coverage amount depends on the driver's status in the app at the time of the crash (e.g., waiting for a ride request, en route to a passenger, or with a passenger in the car). Navigating these policies can be incredibly complex
Being injured in any car accident is a stressful and overwhelming experience. When you add the complexity of a rideshare company's insurance, it can become difficult to know if you are receiving a fair settlement for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle in Illinois, it is essential to understand all your options. The local auto accident law firms we work with have experience navigating these specific claims and can help you understand the process.
For more educational resources on your rights after an accident, head to our eductional articles page. If you want to stay updated on impactful news cases like this one, visit our news hub.
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