In response to the risks associated with rideshare apps, legislations like Sami’s Law have been enacted. With the growing popularity of these apps, it became evident there was a need for more stringent regulations and safety measures.
Sami’s Law is named after Samantha “Sami” Josephson, a college student who tragically lost her life in 2019 when she mistakenly entered into what she believed was her Uber ride. This federal law aims to enhance rideshare safety through several measures.
Rideshare Identification
The law requires rideshare drivers to clearly display a state-issued license plate at the front of their vehicle, as well as an illuminated windshield sign indicating the rideshare company they work for. This measure is aimed at ensuring passengers can easily verify that they’re entering the correct vehicle.
Restricted Logos
Another provision makes it illegal for rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft to sell or provide company logos to anyone not registered as a driver with the platform. This helps prevent impostors from misusing these logos and posing as legitimate drivers– an act that can compromise passenger safety.
Government Accountability
The law also mandates the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to provide a comprehensive report to Congress every two years post its enactment. These reports must detail and analyze incidents of assaults and other safety issues associated with rideshare services, like background checks for prospective drivers.
This strategic move introduces another layer of oversight making companies more accountable if patterns emerge indicating that existing precautions are insufficient.
“This act addresses safety requirements for passengers and drivers of ride-sharing companies (e.g., Uber, Lyft, or taxicabs).
The act requires the Government Accountability Office to submit to Congress a biennial report that includes the results of a study regarding (1) the incidence of fatal and non-fatal physical assault and sexual assault in the preceding two calendar years on drivers by passengers of ride-sharing vehicles and on passengers by drivers of such vehicles, (2) the nature and specifics of any background checks conducted on prospective drivers of ride-sharing vehicles, and (3) the safety steps taken by ride-sharing companies related to rider and driver safety.”
Sami’s Law calls for proactive changes to improve ridesharing safety nationally. If you’ve been a victim of assault or misconduct while using a rideshare service, it’s crucial to consult with a Savannah personal injury attorney so you can understand your legal options.
Filing a Civil Suit
If you or a loved one have been the victim of an incident involving rideshare services, you have the legal right to pursue financial compensation in civil court against the involved parties for their negligence or wrongdoing.
The compensation you may be entitled to can cover a wide variety of expenses and losses such as medical expenses related to emergency care, ongoing treatment, therapy, and future healthcare needs, loss of income or earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and sometimes punitive damages if certain conditions are proven:
“Punitive damages may be awarded only in such tort actions in which it is proven by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant’s actions showed willful misconduct, malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression, or that entire want of care which would raise the presumption of conscious indifference to consequences.”
Engaging with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury and understands the intricacies of rideshare laws can significantly help you obtain justice. They will guide you through the process, help gather evidence, and represent your interests effectively.
Liability in Rideshare Assaults
When it comes to incidents involving rideshare services, liability can be complex and potentially involve multiple parties. Here’s how liability could work:
Rideshare Companies
Rideshare companies like Uber might be held liable if they fail in their responsibility to conduct thorough background checks for drivers or neglect to investigate reported abuses. Their duty includes ensuring that the people they allow on their platform as drivers do not pose any threat to passengers.
Driver Liability
The driver involved in the abuse can be held liable for their actions as well. This responsibility holds regardless of whether they are an independent contractor or considered an employee by the ridesharing service.
The importance of a lawyer in such situations can’t be overstated. If you’ve experienced harm related to a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft, it’s crucial to act promptly. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers in Savannah for Help Today
For more information, please contact our experienced Savannah car accident lawyer at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have a convenient location in Savannah, GA.
We proudly serve Chatham County, Georgia, and its surrounding areas.
Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers
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