Catching a ride with Uber or Lyft is a safe decision. Isn’t it a good idea to get a ride instead of going out drinking and then risking driving under the influence? Isn’t it better to hire a driver who knows where he or she is going instead of driving in an unfamiliar city?
Sure, those are all smart reasons to consider a rideshare service. However, risks are involved whenever you accept a ride from someone you don’t know. This is especially true if the driver poses as an Uber or Lyft driver but is not a registered driver with either service. Unfortunately, this has happened in Honolulu already.
If you were injured in an incident with an Uber or Lyft driver, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact a Honolulu car accident lawyer at Recovery Law Center today for a free consultation to learn about your legal rights.
Common Scams Involving Fake Uber or Lyft Drivers
Scammers posing as Uber or Lyft drivers use deceptive tactics to trick riders. These scams often happen near busy airports, bars, and event venues. Knowing how they operate can help you stay safe. Here are the common fake driver scams to watch out for:
- Impersonation: Some scammers pose as rideshare drivers, waiting near pickup zones and calling out common names. They rely on confusion, hoping a distracted rider will get in. Always check the app for your driver’s details before entering a car.
- Fake Apps or QR Codes: Scammers may place stickers with fake QR codes near official rideshare pickup spots. When scanned, these codes lead to phishing sites that steal payment information. Only use the official Uber or Lyft app to request a ride.
- Surge Pricing Lies: Some impostors claim the app’s prices have surged and offer a “better” deal for cash. Real rideshare drivers never negotiate fares. The app sets the price.
- Locked Doors and Forced Payments: A fake Uber driver may demand payment before unlocking the doors. Legitimate rides only charge through the app. If a driver asks for cash upfront, get out immediately.
- Card Skimming: Some fake drivers install skimming devices inside cars. If a driver insists on swiping your card instead of using the app, it’s a scam. Use digital payment methods within the app.
- GPS Manipulation: Some scammers take longer routes to overcharge riders. Check the app’s map and speak up if the route seems suspicious.
Safety Tips for Uber and Lyft Passengers
Rideshare services have a series of safety guidelines to help keep their customers and drivers safe. Many of their recommendations are common sense for any car ride. Some of them are designed to help their users avoid driver fraud. To prevent fake drivers, it’s recommended that you:
- Call your car from inside your current location so no one can see you and attempt to pick you up.
- Notify a friend or family member of where you plan to go.
- Check the details when you get your car notification. Do the make, model, and license plate match?
- Make the driver identify you. They should know your name when you ask who they’re picking up, and if they don’t, don’t get in.
- Always sit in the back seat.
- Wear a seat belt. Car accidents can happen anytime and anywhere.
- Call 911 in an emergency. Calling through the Uber app will display your live location and trip details to the dispatcher.
Safety is your No. 1 priority in any rideshare vehicle. If you suspect your driver is a fake or are worried about being in an Uber/Lyft accident, don’t hesitate to ask the driver to stop in a public location or call for help.
Legal Rights and What to Do If You’re a Victim
Rideshare companies must follow safety regulations to protect drivers and passengers. If an accident or incident occurs, you may have legal options.
- Car Accidents: If you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you can file a claim against the at-fault party. Rideshare companies have insurance coverage, but the details depend on the trip status.
- Fake Drivers: Always check the driver’s profile, license plate number, and trip details in the app. Report it immediately if you get into a car with a fake driver.
- Driver Misconduct: If a rideshare driver harasses or harms you, report it to the company and law enforcement.
- Data Privacy: Rideshare apps collect data through essential cookies, similar technologies, and optional cookies. You can adjust settings in your browser for a safer experience.
How Can Recovery Law Center Help Me?
If you were the victim of someone posing as an Uber or Lyft driver, you could be entitled to personal injury compensation if you can prove that the driver assaulted you. Rideshare companies carry liability insurance that could be a source of compensation for you in a personal injury claim involving fake drivers, but these types of claims can be complex.
Let a compassionate Honolulu personal injury attorney at Recovery Law Center help you. We know you’ve been through a terrible ordeal. We can investigate your Uber injury claim and outline your legal options in a free consultation.
Call or contact our Oahu law firm today to get started.
