Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, are increasingly dominating California roads. Their usefulness and accessibility have altered the way people travel, especially in popular cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. But, as demand continues to grow, the number of accidents has as well. 

According to Uber’s most recent safety report, between 2021 to 2022, there were 153 deadly motor vehicle crashes, and a fatality rate of 0.87 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. Although this translates to a small percentage of total trips, it does demonstrate an upward trend compared to the company’s previous numbers dated back to 2019 to 2020, which had a total of 101 fatalities across 91 crashes. 

Lyft’s recent data shares a similar story. From 2020 to 2022, the company experienced 111 motor vehicle fatalities, representing a 14 percent rise in the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, and a 31 percent rise in incident frequency rate from their previous report.  

So, what is leading to the spike in rideshare accidents? It could likely result from multiple factors, ranging from driver behavior, vehicle upkeep, and traffic conditions. 

Distracted Driving

A common issue that persists with rideshare drivers is distracted driving. Navigating between apps to access directions, ride requests, and communication with passengers will require them to be on their phones constantly. This will create a dangerous multitasking environment, involving quick glances away from the road. Even if it is for a few seconds, it can still lead to severe or fatal collisions. 

This particular action can create life-threatening conditions for the rideshare driver, and may be in violation of California traffic laws (CVC 23123 & CVC 23123.5). Alternative options to maintain safe driving will require hands-free or voice-operated features to be used. 

Speeding

Once an Uber or Lyft driver accepts a ride request, they will need to pick up and drop off passengers according to the estimates provided on the app. This will put them under pressure since they will be expected to complete tasks based on the amount of time presented. In addition, rideshare drivers will want to complete a trip quickly to accept additional rides in order to make more money. Unfortunately, these factors can encourage speeding and aggressive driving behaviors. This can ultimately result in unsafe conditions, especially in high traffic areas across California. 

Driver Fatigue

Although Uber and Lyft drivers have a flexible schedule, many of them are willing to work long hours to meet financial goals, often driving late at night or early in the morning. This will gradually cause them to develop fatigue, thus reducing their reaction time and judgement to sudden changes or road hazards. Studies have shown that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), being awake for 17 hours is equivalent to having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05 percent, whereas 24 hours would be similar to a BAC of 0.10 percent. To prevent inadequate sleeping patterns, adults must have 7 to 9 hours of rest to properly function the following day. 

Vehicle Maintenance Issues

Uber and Lyft drivers are required to keep their vehicles in good condition before fulfilling ride requests. Some may try to skip regular maintenance to save time or money. However, operating a vehicle with worn brake pads, bald tires, or broken headlights can all lead to an avoidable accident. Without proper upkeep, such vehicles will not meet Uber and Lyft safety standards, thus disqualifying rideshare drivers from remaining as active workers under either company.

Unfamiliarity with Roads

Many rideshare drivers will find themselves accepting requests located in areas outside of their usual neighborhoods or cities. In this case, they will rely heavily on GPS to guide them to the pick-up and drop-off destinations. Unfamiliarity with roads and high-risk intersections could cause erratic driving, abrupt stops, and missed turns. Each of these factors could increase the likelihood of a rideshare crash. 

Unsafe Pick-Up and Drop-Off Practices 

Finding a safe area to pick up or drop off passengers is not always easy. This especially applies to crowded cities, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. Some will try to park in bike lanes or even stop in the middle of the road to complete a trip. Doing either of these can put the rideshare driver and passenger at risk of an accident with other road users, like another driver or cyclist. 

Involved in a Rideshare Accident? Schedule a FREE Consultation with West Coast Uber and Lyft Lawyers Today

As rideshare services remain in high demand across California, so does the risk of being involved in a crash. If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation. At West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers, our team is equipped to uncover the at-fault party and hold them accountable for the damages you incurred. We will work diligently on your behalf to ensure we secure full and fair compensation. 

To get started on the legal process, you can schedule a FREE consultation by calling (213) 465-8682 or filling out our quick online contact form.