Rideshare services have quickly become the go-to choice for many people seeking convenient travel. With just a few taps on your phone, you can call a driver to your location and be on your way. However, while ridesharing has plenty of perks, there are also hidden dangers that passengers should consider.
At BANA LAW, we want you to stay informed about potential risks, from safety issues to the possibility of encountering fraudulent drivers. Below, we discuss the main hazards of taking a rideshare—and what you can do to protect yourself.
What Are the Main Safety Concerns in Rideshare Vehicles?
One of the biggest worries is passenger safety. While California law requires network companies to develop a sexual harassment policy under Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7457, incidents of harassment or assault do still occur.
Drivers receive safety training that includes collision avoidance and reporting of sexual misconduct, as required by Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7459. Yet, these measures can’t guarantee a threat-free ride.
Another concern is fraudulent driver impersonation. According to Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7462, impersonating an app-based driver carries serious penalties if it leads to crimes like kidnapping or assault. Although law enforcement takes impersonation seriously, it still poses a real danger if you are unaware of the driver’s true identity.
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Could Rideshare Companies Be Liable for Third-Party Attacks in California?
Some passengers believe that rideshare companies should be responsible if they’re assaulted or harmed during a ride. However, in Jane Doe No. 1 v. Uber Technologies, Inc. (79 Cal. App. 5th 410) and Al Shikha v. Lyft, Inc. (102 Cal. App. 5th 14), courts have often ruled that these businesses don’t owe a special duty to protect passengers from third-party assaults. This means that, unless there’s a special circumstance, companies might not be held liable for crimes a driver commits.
What About Car Accidents in a Rideshare?
Accidents can happen in any car, including a rideshare. If you’re a passenger in an Uber or Lyft that crashes, the driver may be liable for ordinary negligence. Because rideshare drivers earn a “tangible benefit” (money from the company or directly from the ride fare), they owe riders a duty of care.
California law also imposes certain insurance requirements on rideshare drivers. But each case is unique. If you’ve been in an accident, our California rideshare accident lawyers can clarify how best to seek compensation for your injuries.
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What Are the Risks of Fraudulent or Unlicensed Drivers?
There have been reports of people posing as rideshare drivers. Under Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7462, anyone caught impersonating a rideshare driver faces severe penalties, which increase if the fake driver commits serious crimes.
Always verify the driver’s name, photo, and license plate in your app before getting in the car. If anything feels off—like a different vehicle type or a mismatched license plate—it’s best to cancel the ride and report it.
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How Can You Increase Your Safety in California Rideshares?
Rideshare companies have policies in place, but passengers should still stay vigilant. Below is a list of key steps you can take:
- Verify Your Driver: Check the license plate, car model, and driver’s face before entering the vehicle.
- Sit in the Back Seat: This gives you personal space and a quick exit route.
- Share Trip Details: Use the app to share your ride status with a friend or family member.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off—like the driver refusing to let you exit—call 911 or cancel your ride if possible.
- Use Well-Lit Pickup Points: Especially at night, stand where you can easily see your surroundings.
Why Does Insurance Matter in California Rideshare Accidents?
Rideshare drivers are required to carry specific insurance coverage. For instance, companies typically have a policy that covers the driver from the time they accept a ride until the passenger is dropped off.
Still, insurance disputes can arise if, for example, the driver’s app wasn’t on at the time of the accident. You might face pushback from insurers trying to minimize your claim. Having our California rideshare accident attorneys on your side can make all the difference when dealing with these disputes.
Physical and Emotional Harms After California Rideshare Accidents
Beyond physical injuries, passengers might endure emotional trauma, such as in cases of assault or even near-miss accidents. California law recognizes that emotional distress can be a valid legal claim if certain requirements are met.
However, pursuing these claims against rideshare companies has proven challenging in court. That doesn’t mean you’re out of options—but you’ll likely need an experienced legal team to review your case and help you navigate potential obstacles.
Are There Special Laws Protecting California Rideshare Passengers?
California has put regulations in place to reduce risks. These include:
- Sexual Harassment Policies: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7457 compels companies to have a robust policy, defining and prohibiting harassment and detailing complaint procedures.
- Driver Background Checks: Many rideshare platforms conduct ongoing criminal background checks to screen out high-risk drivers.
- Safety Training: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 7459 mandates collision avoidance and misconduct reporting training for drivers.
Even so, no set of rules can guarantee your safety. Taking simple but critical steps, like verifying the driver’s car and license plate, can greatly reduce your risk.
How Can BANA LAW Help if You’re Hurt or Harassed in a Rideshare?
At BANA LAW, we know that dealing with rideshare-related injuries or assaults can be an emotional ordeal.
Our attorneys can:
- Investigate the circumstances of your case
- Examine the rideshare company’s records
- Work with insurance adjusters on your behalf
- Help you pursue a fair settlement or lawsuit if necessary
By understanding both state laws and the internal policies of rideshare companies, our California rideshare accident lawyers can guide you through the entire legal process.
Contact BANA LAW for Help After a Rideshare Accident
If you’ve experienced an injury, assault, or any other danger in a rideshare situation, contact BANA LAW for help. Let our experienced legal team stand by your side and advocate for your rights.
Connect with us online or call 855-761-8722 for a free consultation, and take a confident step toward securing the justice and compensation you need. Our goal is to help you find peace of mind and move forward in the wake of a challenging experience.
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