Ridesharing has grown in popularity as one of the more preferred modes of transportation. Despite being a practical choice for passengers, studies have shown that rideshare cars have raised the frequency of collisions, injuries, and even fatalities on the road. Tragically, these collisions have also resulted in the fatalities of pedestrians and passengers.
Ridesharing drivers are directly responsible for several accidents and their indirect impact on road safety. Even though carpool services reduce stress, there has been a 2–3% rise in traffic fatalities since rideshare usage increased in 2011, according to a University of Chicago study. Proving liability is one of the most important elements in any case involving a personal injury or car accident. To help you identify potential areas of negligence, we’ve curated a list of the most common causes of ridesharing accidents. If you’ve been a victim of any of the following due to someone else’s carelessness, reach out to a rideshare lawyer, and you may be entitled to compensation.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major contributing factor in rideshare accidents. Drivers usually use the rideshare app, which provides information about the passengers, the pick-up location, and the drop-off location. Receiving updates about new passengers is one of the biggest distractions for rideshare drivers. Not only do they get notifications on their phones, but the driver also has to accept or decline the passenger personally, combining manual, visual, and cognitive distractions. A brief diversion can result in a serious crash, even if it only lasts a few seconds.
2. Speeding
Numerous accidents include speeding, whether they use ridesharing vehicles or not. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that speeding accounts for over 26% of all accidents. Getting passengers to their destinations as soon as possible is one method rideshare drivers depend on to achieve five-star reviews for their ridesharing businesses. This frequently leads to drivers speeding, which sadly can cause numerous accidents on the road.
3. Lack of Experience
According to research, rideshare accidents are frequently caused by inexperienced drivers. Rideshare businesses have relatively flexible rules for drivers. Additionally, drivers for ride-sharing services don’t need to be familiar with the area they are driving in. Sadly, this inexperience causes numerous accidents every year with drivers who are ill-prepared for the road. While selecting your next rideshare, focus on the reviews from passengers to protect yourself against novice drivers.
4. Disobeying Traffic Rules
Drivers must abide by traffic rules whether or not they are operating their vehicle for a ridesharing service. Drivers can be considered negligent if they violate traffic laws and may also be held legally accountable if their activities result in injuries or fatalities.
Rideshare drivers frequently violate traffic laws by driving past red lights, passing through no-passing zones, failing to stop at stop signs, changing lanes without signaling, and more. Severe weather can also play a role in accidents, but the driver must slow down and drive more cautiously when the weather is terrible.
5. Driver Fatigue
Driving while fatigued can be as risky as driving while intoxicated. 20% of drivers acknowledge that they have dozed off behind the wheel, and about half of all drivers say they drive when feeling sleepy.
Many drivers work excessive hours due to long ridesharing shifts or driving as side employment. Additionally, many ride-sharing trips take place early in the morning or late at night, which implies the drivers are drowsy when operating the vehicle.
What to Do in a Rideshare Accident
A ridesharing driver may cause an accident if they are tired, intoxicated, or distracted. If this happens, the driver may be held responsible for your damages if there are fatalities or serious injuries. When involved in a rideshare accident, there are several actions you should take. However, seeking medical help and contacting a lawyer should be a priority.
The ride-sharing businesses are frequently at fault and may make excuses when an accident occurs. With the help of a personal injury attorney, you can protect your rights, negotiate with the ridesharing business, and receive the compensation you deserve following an accident.
Final Words
In recent years, ridesharing services have expanded in American cities. While these services have been credited for keeping drunk drivers off the road, research indicates that their existence makes traffic congestion and accidents worse. The introduction of ride-sharing is also linked to an increase of about 3% in the number of fatal motor vehicle crashes.