Safety Tips for Using Rideshares on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is one of the deadliest nights to drive in Miami and nationwide. Luckily, rideshare companies including Uber and Lyft have reduced this risk as more and more people are choosing these options over driving under the influence of alcohol. However, rideshares are not without their risks. You’re still riding in a vehicle on the road with other drivers who may not be as responsible as you, and getting in an Uber or Lyft comes with its own issues as well. Miami residents who plan to use Uber or Lyft on New Year’s Eve should follow these tips to avoid rideshare accidents and ensure you and your loved ones make it home safely. 

1. Make Sure The Vehicle Matches the App’s Description. 

Double checking that you’re getting into the right car may seem like common sense, but when drinking is involved, and the streets are lined with vehicles, you may find yourself approaching the wrong one. This can be dangerous for many reasons including jumping into a vehicle that’s not a rideshare car at all, putting you in a bad situation quickly. Make sure the car’s make, model, and license plate match the ones listed on your Uber or Lyft app and confirm the driver’s name and photograph. 

2. Watch Out for Surge Prices. 

The highest demand for Uber in Miami is between midnight and 3 am, but that window could be longer on New Year’s Eve as more people stay out later to celebrate. You can avoid the surge pricing (which can cause the average cost of your ride to quadruple) by scheduling your trip ahead of time and splitting the ride with a friend for multiple stops. 

3. Don’t Forget Your Belongings. 

Make sure you grab your purse, wallet, phone, and other items as you get in and out of an Uber or Lyft on New Year’s Eve. You may get lucky and have a driver that notices forgotten belongings right away, but remember that he or she will likely have many passengers throughout the night so you may not be able to get your things until the next day or they could be lost in the rush of rides. 

4. Know What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Auto Accident. 

Both rideshare companies provide a $1 million liability policy for drivers and passengers and offer 24/7 support through their applications. You can view the insurance details of the Lyft vehicle you’re in by looking at the car’s information in their app as well. If an accident occurs, seek medical attention right away for any injuries, provide a statement for the police report, and contact our attorneys about your rideshare accident. 

Remember that just because you’ve chosen the responsible route and taken a rideshare or taxi home doesn’t mean the roads are free from drunk drivers. If your Uber or Lyft driver seems to be under the influence, stop the ride immediately and contact the rideshare company through the app. 

Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Miami 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident in Miami, please contact our lawyers at the Hickey Law Firm as soon as possible at (855) 375-3727 for a FREE consultation. We offer legal services in multiple languages and serve clients throughout the Miami, Florida area.