Almost everyone has used a ridesharing service in the last 12 months, and the popularity of services like Uber and Lyft has skyrocketed in recent years. In 2022, there were over 111 million active Uber users in the United States alone. This popularity has led to increased accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers.
In 2019, a study by the University of Chicago found that Uber and Lyft were associated with a 3% increase in traffic fatalities. The study’s authors attributed this increase to some factors, including that ride-sharing drivers are often younger and less experienced than traditional taxi drivers.
In addition to the increased risk of accidents, many legal issues surround Uber and Lyft accidents. For example, it is often unclear who is liable in the event of an accident involving a ride-sharing driver. In some cases, the ride-sharing company may be liable, while the driver may be liable in other cases.
The legal landscape surrounding Uber and Lyft accidents is constantly evolving. In recent years, several lawsuits have been filed against Uber and Lyft concerning accidents involving their drivers. In some cases, these lawsuits have been successful, resulting in large settlements for the plaintiffs.
As ridesharing’s popularity continues to grow, the number of accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers will likely increase. This means that it is important for both drivers and passengers to be aware of the risks involved and to take steps to protect themselves.
High Profile Accidents
In recent months, there have been several high-profile Uber and Lyft accidents. In one case, an Uber driver was accused of driving drunk and killing a pedestrian. In another case, a Lyft driver was accused of using her phone while driving and causing an accident that resulted in serious injuries.
Accidents involving professional drivers and members of the public understandably cause alarm and lead people to wonder about the safety of ridesharing services. Both Uber and Lyft have highlighted their understanding of these concerns. Both companies assert they are taking steps to improve safety by adding further background checks and driver education to their driver requirements.
Help and Support after a Ridesharing Accident
The aftermath of a car accident is always worrying, and it can feel even more confusing and difficult if you are not the driver. Reaching out for help from experienced Uber accident attorneys ensures you have professional support from those who know how to handle your case effectively.
No ridesharing service can guarantee that accidents will not happen. They carry out due diligence and seek to hire only qualified and safe drivers, but no one is immune from road traffic accidents.
If you are involved in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, it is important to seek legal advice immediately.