The Risks of Rideshare

Did you know that rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are technology companies, not transportation companies? Also, their drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees. These distinctions allow the rideshare companies to take advantage of loopholes when it comes time to take responsibility for injuries sustained in a rideshare accident.

The Risks

Uber and Lyft, two of the most popular rideshare companies, have a combined 123 million customers and 5.5 million drivers. The drivers that work for these companies are not necessarily employed based on their driving abilities.

• Many rideshare drivers work the job as a second or even third source of income, meaning that they are most likely driving fatigued. There are many side effects of drowsiness that can negatively impact a person’s ability to drive, including delayed reaction times and lack of awareness. Those who drive while drowsy are three times more likely to be in a car accident.
• Rideshare drivers are often in a hurry to deliver their passengers from point A to point B as quickly as possible. The faster they complete a ride, the sooner they can pick up another, putting more money in their pocket. This causes rideshare drivers to drive recklessly which greatly increases the chances of being in a car accident.
• Whether they are talking on their phone, checking their GPS, or adjusting the radio, rideshare drivers are often distracted by a myriad of things. Distracted driving puts everyone on the road at risk. In any given year, distracted driving results in over 3,000 deaths.

The Result

The more cars that are on the road, the greater the chances there will be a car accident. The risks that rideshare drivers bring to the table substantially increase the chances that they and their passengers will be in a rideshare accident.

• Research shows that rideshare services have caused a 3% increase in car accident fatalities since 2011, accounting for approximately 1,000 car accident fatalities each day.
• In a single year, Uber alone was involved in 97 fatal crashes, resulting in 107 deaths. Of these deaths, 21% of the crash victims were the rider, 21% were the driver, and 58% were third parties.

Car accidents can leave a person with temporary injuries or life-altering disabilities. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, contact Rob Levine & Associates. You can rely on our experienced legal team to investigate your case, negotiate with the insurance company, and get you the compensation you deserve!