Ridesharing has become so ingrained in our everyday lives that it’s as common as owning a cell phone. Ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft have taken over the roads in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and many other major cities, with more drivers and passengers signing up every day. As of 2019, Uber reportedly holds 75% of the market share for passenger transport in the United States. And yet, passengers sometimes find themselves at risk when they believe they’re riding with a drunk Uber driver.
As Uber grows, so do lawsuits against them. Uber paid hundreds of millions of dollars in payouts and settlements to drivers and users, and you may be entitled to compensation.
Can You Report Driver Problems to Uber?
Uber has seen legal issues over drivers running down pedestrians, harassing riders, and a variety of other problems. Uber drivers operating a vehicle while drunk or drug-impaired is also a major legal issue that can result in various consequences, from rider trauma to significant injury or death.
If you feel that your Uber driver was drunk, impaired, or intoxicated, seek the help of a professional Uber Accident Attorney. The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani specialize in Uber-related litigation, and we know how to get you the compensation you deserve.
What Happens if My Uber Driver is Drunk?
In 2016, an Uber driver in San Diego was charged with DUI and resisting arrest after driving through a red light and colliding with a party bus. A spokesperson for Uber later confirmed the driver did work for the company, but said he was not logged into the app or picking up a fare at the time of the crash.
The party bus was empty at the time of the accident, but that doesn’t negate the fact that the driver may have been impaired and had access to the app at the time of the accident. Short of putting breathalyzers in Uber vehicles across America, Uber makes efforts to prevent incidents by requiring background checks, up-to-date documentation, and regular identity verification.
How to report a drunk Uber driver
Following major lawsuits for failing to investigate impaired drivers, Uber now has a zero-tolerance rule on their website that states, “If you believe your Uber driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please ask the driver to END THE TRIP IMMEDIATELY. Then exit the car and call 911.” This statement follows with instructions for passengers should they wish to make driver feedback, a safety report, or request further customer support.
Regardless of the circumstances, safety is your priority. Riding with an impaired driver is alarming and dangerous, but it’s best to take a calm approach to resolve the situation. You can use the app to end the ride, and you’re not obligated to give any further information to the driver. The same applies to other ride-sharing companies — if you have a drunk Lyft driver, take the same steps and report the incident to Lyft.
Call emergency services immediately to notify the police and to request medical attention if necessary, followed by reaching out to your attorney. Afterward, use the Uber app to make an Uber drunk driver report, and describe the situation in detail. Make a note of how you’re feeling, the details of the encounter, and injuries that may have resulted from your Uber driver’s negligence or impairment. Keep in mind that trauma, fear, and other emotional and mental strain may also entitle you to compensation.
How Does Uber Investigate Drivers?
Uber doesn’t publicly detail its internal investigation process, but it does offer a rough overview. When a passenger makes a complaint about a driver, Uber’s website indicates that it takes thorough steps to investigate the driver. Passengers can make a report for impaired driving in addition to other safety concerns, such as:
- Distracted driving
- Traffic citations
- Drug impairment
- Harassment and altercations
- Assault
Your driver doesn’t necessarily have to appear impaired for you to make a valid safety report. Uber may interpret open containers or residual smells of alcohol or drugs as driver impairment, even if a passenger left it behind.
When a passenger makes a report that concerns safety and legality, such as impaired driving, Uber may immediately suspend the driver’s access to their account to prevent them from driving until the investigation is resolved. They communicate suspensions to drivers with as much notice as possible, and drivers can request a review of removal of access privileges under certain conditions and provide additional information to vouch for themselves.
During the investigation, Uber claims to use a mix of data, technology, and manual review processes. This investigation structure intends to ensure the safety of passengers while also protecting drivers from fraudulent accusations. They may consider factors such as the driver’s time or trips on the platforms, and they may inquire with the Industry Sharing Safety Program to inquire about incidents with other ride-sharing platforms.
Call Jacob Amrani Attorneys to Assist with Drunk Uber Driver Cases
If possible, contact an experienced Los Angeles Uber attorney so they can be present when you make a statement with the police. If you experienced physical injury, emotional distress, or trauma as a result of your encounter with a drunk Uber driver, you may be entitled to further compensation.
If you believe your Uber driver was drunk, impaired, or intoxicated, seek the help of a professional Uber Accident Attorney. Serving Los Angeles, San Diego, and the rest of California, the Law Offices of Jacob Emrani know how to get you the compensation you deserve. Call (888) 804-6766 to set up your no-cost case evaluation!