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Ride-Sharing Service Drivers Expect Plenty of Business this Weekend

Posted in Car Accident,Personal Injury,Tennessee Accident Law on June 9, 2017

Drivers with Uber and Lyft say they expect to pick up and drop off plenty of passengers in Nashville this weekend due to things like the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, Bonnaroo, and CMA Fest.

WKRN.com reports that one driver quit her job to drive for Lyft in Nashville. She says that because parking downtown is so expensive, with some lots charging $80 for two hours, more people will rely on ride-sharing services to get to their destinations. She also said that she expects to complete around 30 fares.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation told reporters that traffic backups and congestion are expected throughout the area, including downtown, and that people who plan on participating the festivities should avoid driving if possible.

TDOT utilizes a 180-camera setup at its Traffic Management Center to keep an eye on interstates, highways, and roadways throughout the area, especially during weekends when heavy traffic is expected.

To alleviate the extra burden placed on highways in the area, TDOT has temporarily stopped road construction throughout Middle Tennessee.

4 Ways to Stay Safe when Using Cabs, Taxis, and Ride-Sharing Services

Using private transportation is a great way to get to major public events or to get home if you’ve consumed alcohol, but it can carry its own concerns and potential dangers. It’s important to be aware of these dangers before you call for a ride, whether it’s a traditional cab/taxi service or a smartphone-activated ride-sharing service.

Follow these three tips to better protect yourself and your loved ones:

  • Buckle up

The best thing you can do to protect yourself in any vehicle, whether you’re a driver or a passenger, is to wear your seat belt. Immediately buckle up when you get inside a cab, taxi, or ride-sharing vehicle, and keep your seat belt on until you arrive at your destination. If the vehicle’s seat belts don’t fit properly, are broken or damaged, or don’t buckle, exit and arrange alternative transportation.

  • Look both ways before entering and exiting the vehicle

You may have to cross the street to enter the cab, taxi, or ride-sharing vehicle. If so, make sure you look both ways before crossing the street and opening the door. In addition, it’s also important to look around the vehicle before opening the door and exiting, especially if you’re being dropped off in a busy area.

  • Provide your driver with your destination when you book the ride

To avoid delays, additional charges, and potentially dangerous situations, be sure to provide the taxi/cab company or ride-sharing program with your destination when you schedule your ride. That will help prevent the driver from getting lost or traveling in the wrong direction before rerouting to get you where you need to go.

  • Make sure the driver and vehicle description match before you accept the ride

If you’re using a ride-sharing service, you’ll get information about your driver’s vehicle, name, and appearance when the ride is confirmed. Keep that information in mind as you wait for him or her to arrive, and verify their identity before getting in their vehicle.

Matt Hardin Law’s team of Nashville car accident attorneys knows that private transportation businesses are in high-demand throughout the city on weekends and during special events. And while using these services can keep you safe if you’ve consumed alcohol, it’s vital to remember that you and your loved ones are still vulnerable. Following the tips above can help you protect yourself before, during, and after your ride.

If you or someone you know was hurt in an accident involving a cab, taxi, or ride-sharing vehicle, you may be eligible to get compensation for your accident-related expenses, including medical bills and lost wages. To find out how our legal team can assist you, dial (615) 200-1111 or complete a free online form. We have more than two decades of experience helping injured victims like you, and we know what it takes to build strong claims that get results.