Uber Riders in Danger because Rideshare Apps Distract Drivers

Romanucci & Blandin, LLC announced today the filing of a new lawsuit that draws attention to the risk of distracted rideshare drivers using their companies’ app while operating a vehicle.  The complaint, filed in Cook County, says client John Barakat was injured when an Uber driver caused a multi-car accident in Homer Glen. Video and witnesses indicate the Uber driver was engaging with the Uber application at the time of the accident. 

According to the Chicago Tribune, a 2018 report indicated there were 67,000 Uber and Lyft drivers in the Chicago area.  Last year, Governor J. B. Pritzker signed a law which makes it a Class A misdemeanor to use an electronic device while driving and cause great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement to another person.  If such an accident results in death, the charge is upgraded to a Class 4 felony.   

To learn more about legal options related to automobile accidents please click here.