While rideshare transportation provides commuters with convenient pick-up and drop-off options at any time of day or night, this service has unfortunately accelerated the number of accidents, with various states reporting increased concerns. Risks such as fatalities and loss of damage are some of the impacts of these rideshare accidents, resulting in nationwide outcries. Listed are some of the common causes of rideshare accidents.

Driving While Drowsy

Due to the hectic schedules that numerous rideshare drivers often work on, they face a risk of getting drowsy while driving, putting them and their passengers at risk. According to statistics, 1550 fatalities are reported yearly due to drowsy driving incidences, with rideshare drivers accounting for a significant part of these statistics.

Unfortunately, rideshare apps continually offer bonuses for completing many trips, putting more passengers and pedestrians at risk. If your designated driver is liable for such an offense, a rideshare accident lawyer from Buckhead Law can help you file the necessary documentation, helping you get the compensation you are owed.

Driving Under the Influence

Drunken driving is another cause of rideshare accidents, with approximately 32 deaths reported daily due to driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. Unlike other transportation means requiring their drivers to undergo screening, rideshare drivers operate without supervision, increasing the risk of drunken driving.

In addition, drivers in this sector can work at any time of day or night, with the latter often accompanied by late-night escapades for numerous individuals. Unfortunately, this leads to low reaction times, with cognitive capabilities impaired when this happens.

Inexperienced Drivers

While average taxi drivers are required to have some training and a minimum period for driving passengers, rideshare drivers often have minimal driving requirements, increasing the risk of hazards while on the road. Numerous rideshare drivers will often be inexperienced individuals with a new license, with limited knowledge and skills for navigating various aspects of driving protocols. Some states have set legislation directives for rideshare companies to protect passengers from reckless driving, ensuring limited incidences.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is another cause of rideshare accidents, with mobile devices accounting for numerous road mishaps. Drivers enrolled in rideshare companies often use their phones to navigate the locations for their pickups and drop-offs, resulting in distracted driving. If this is combined with speeding, it could result in fatalities for the driver and other pedestrians.

While minimal ways exist to avoid this issue, drivers are encouraged to slow down when navigating the route on their phones, giving them enough time to react to impending risks. Other issues linked to distracted driving include grooming, eating and playing loud music.   

Overdriving in Extreme Weather Conditions

Various states have their driving speed limits for extreme weather conditions, acting as a guideline for rideshare drivers when they find themselves in foggy, rainy, and snowy conditions. Numerous drivers, however, choose to ignore these limits, overdriving even when their visibility is reduced. This makes breaking and acting accordingly impossible when other drivers are in close range, resulting in accidents. 

Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents in traditional and ridesharing transportation, with the National highway traffic safety administration reporting 9,000 fatalities caused by high speeds. Since ridesharing often involves multiple passengers, this figure will likely increase when drivers violate the speeding limits, with significant damage also reported.

Ignoring Traffic Signs

Traffic signs are designed to keep motorists safe while on the road, an aspect that numerous rideshare drivers have been noted to ignore. Injuries and vehicle damage are likely to occur when drivers flaunt rules such as stopping at a stop sign, indicating turn signals, and signaling when changing lines.

If you find yourself in a rideshare accident due to any of the above reasons, make it a point to consult with a professional accident lawyer. A few incidences can help include instances when your rideshare driver is under the influence of drugs, ignores the traffic signs, and is liable for speeding. Additionally, if your driver causes an accident due to inexperience or causes property damage when overdriving during stormy conditions, legal help will be your go-to.