Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Uber and Lyft have become an integral part of our day-to-day travel. Whether it’s a daily commute, a night out with friends, or a trip to the airport, these convenient services have made moving around easier than ever before. However, along with this new way of getting around comes a new set of risks. Accidents involving rideshare vehicles have been on the rise, with many victims left wondering how to navigate the complex legal and insurance landscape that follows such incidents. Our team of seasoned legal professionals has put together this comprehensive guide to shed light on the most common causes of rideshare accidents and provide some clarity on what to do if you find yourself a victim.

When looking at the root causes of rideshare accidents, a few key factors stand out. These can broadly be classified into categories related to driver behaviors, vehicle conditions, and external circumstances. However, in many cases, it is a combination of these factors that culminates in a mishap.

Driver Distraction: With the advent of rideshare services, distraction takes on a new form. Rideshare drivers juggle multiple tasks at once – navigating via their GPS, responding to ride requests, and maintaining communication with their passengers. This constant multitasking can divert their attention from the road, leading to preventable accidents.

Driver Fatigue: To maximize earnings, many rideshare drivers clock in long, unsociable hours, often working for more than one rideshare company. This grueling routine can lead to fatigue and decreased alertness, impairing their driving skills and judgment.

Speeding and Reckless Driving: The pressure to complete as many rides as possible can lead to reckless driving behaviors like speeding, making unsafe lane changes, or not observing traffic rules. All these raise the risk of accidents.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Rideshare drivers use their own vehicles, and while there are basic requirements these vehicles must meet, ongoing maintenance is the driver’s responsibility. Failing to regularly service and maintain their vehicle can lead to malfunctions, potentially causing accidents.

Lack of Adequate Training: Rideshare drivers are not professional drivers. Beyond possessing a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record, they are not subjected to any additional training. This lack of advanced driving skills can prove disastrous in challenging driving scenarios.

So, what should you do if you’re involved in a rideshare accident? First and foremost, seek immediate medical help. Not all injuries are immediately apparent, and a timely medical evaluation can identify and address any hidden injuries. Plus, medical records serve as crucial evidence in personal injury claims.

After ensuring everyone’s safety, report the accident to the rideshare company. It is also a good idea to gather as much information as possible about the incident. Photographs, eyewitness accounts, driver details, and trip records can all be instrumental in subsequent insurance or legal proceedings.

Perhaps the most crucial advice is to refrain from admitting fault or discussing the accident’s specifics with anyone, including insurance adjusters, without consulting a lawyer. Remember, anything you say can potentially be used against you later. Considering legal advice is key. Contact us to schedule a consultation to discuss your case. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is always ready to help.