Uber, Lyft and Sidecar passengers at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival not only had to endure long lines, gridlocked traffic, and price gouging by rideshare companies, but they were also at an increased risk of being involved in a car accident.
Uber and Lyft drivers came from near and far to the Inland Empire to capitalize on the surge in riders needing transportation. Rideshare drivers who came into town were often unfamiliar with the area, putting them and their passengers at increased risk of getting into an accident.
The Indio Police Department set up lane closures to deal with the traffic, sending many rideshare drivers onto back roads, side streets and alternate routes.
With Uber, Lyft and Sidecar drivers unfamiliar with the area, they were forced to rely heavily on their cell phones and tablets for directions, which meant their attention was not on the roadway in front of them, putting their passengers at risk.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft or Sidecar driver, you should speak with an accident lawyer about your right to compensation. McGee, Lerer & Associates is personal injury law firm with five office locations: Santa Monica, Pasadena, Los Angeles and Long Beach. We provide free consultations. A car accident attorney at our firm is available 24/7.
Read more about Uber accidents here.