Over the past few years, rideshare services have transformed the transportation industry. With these platforms' convenience and affordability, thousands of Californians rely on rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft to get around their towns and cities.
However, this growing popularity also increases the risk of car crashes, accidents, and personal injury.
Although rideshare applications may be a convenient way for users to find an affordable ride, they can also pose a significant threat to rider safety. Rideshare accidents most commonly occur as a result of the following issues:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes in general, and it’s no surprise that rideshare drivers are often involved in these kinds of accidents.
Rideshare drivers rely heavily on their phones and other digital technology to pick up passengers and navigate to their destinations. These activities can cause dangerous distractions.
The risk of an accident increases significantly when drivers lose spatial awareness or take their eyes off the road or their hands off the wheel.
Speeding
Rideshare drivers often try to complete as many rides as possible in a short amount of time, and this mindset can naturally lead to dangerous speeding. Although these companies offer drivers a convenient alternative to traditional taxi services, the work can be demanding.
When drivers fail to follow posted speed limits, they have less time to react to potential hazards and may not be able to stop to avoid a collision with another vehicle, bicycle, or even pedestrian.
Fatigue
Rideshare drivers often work long hours to earn more money or meet platform-specific goals to earn bonuses. Fatigue can impair drivers' judgment and reaction time, making them more prone to accidents. Some studies show that driving while sleepy can be just as dangerous as DUI. Tired drivers can cause severe crashes and collisions.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Regular vehicle maintenance is critical for driver safety, and failure to do so can lead to rideshare accidents. Worn brakes, tires, or other parts can fail and contribute to traffic crashes and fatalities.
To prevent accidents caused by poor vehicle maintenance, Uber and Lyft drivers should ensure that their cars are well-maintained and up to date on all necessary repairs.
Liability for Rideshare Accidents
Recently, California lawmakers passed a law requiring Uber and Lyft drivers to carry insurance with minimum limits of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $30,000 for property damage.
Although this requirement can’t prevent accidents, it’s designed to protect victims after a crash.
Recovering Damages a Rideshare Crash
Knowing the most common situations contributing to rideshare accidents is essential whether you’re a driver or a passenger. Distracted driving, violating traffic laws, and failing to fix a vehicle’s components are all dangerous behaviors.
If an Uber or Lyft driver has injured you, contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers to learn how we can help you recover the damages you deserve.
