5 Common Causes of Uber Accidents and How to Prevent Them

Ridesharing has become a popular mode of transportation in many countries around the world. The convenience and affordability provided by companies like Uber and Lyft make it easy for people to get around without owning a car or using public transportation.

However, with this convenience comes an increase in rideshare accidents. This post will discuss five common causes of rideshare accidents and how to prevent them.

Also, you can learn more here about what you can do to protect your legal rights in the event of a rideshare accident.

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of all types of car accidents, including those involving rideshares. Drivers who use their phones while behind the wheel are not only breaking the law but also putting themselves and their passengers at risk.

Drivers should put their phones on silent or Do Not Disturb mode while driving to avoid distracted driving accidents. They can also use hands-free devices to take calls or voice-activated commands to send texts.

2. Driver Fatigue Can Cause Uber Accidents

Long hours spent on the road can lead to driver fatigue, resulting in poor judgment and slower reaction times – increasing the risk of an accident.

Rideshare companies have implemented limits on how many hours drivers can work at a stretch. However, some drivers ignore these rules, putting themselves and their passengers at risk.

Passengers can do their part by only requesting a ride from a driver who has been online for less than 12 hours.

3. Speeding

Speeding is another common cause of rideshare accidents, especially since most Uber/Lyft drivers tend to be paid according to distance traveled rather than time spent on trips. They tend to drive fast to complete more trips, earning more money, just as there are instances where they would be late for scheduled pick-ups/drop-offs.

Unfortunately, this recklessness may result in collisions. To avoid speeding-related crashes, drivers should always adhere to speed limits, even if it means arriving late for their next trip. Passengers can also do their part by speaking up if the driver is driving dangerously or erratically.

4. Driver Inexperience

New rideshare drivers who may need to become more familiar with the area they're working in could accidentally cause collisions by making bad decisions about one-way streets or narrow roads.

The app usually directs drivers on where to go. However, some circumstances may arise that require a driver to make decisions quickly and safely. It is up to the driver to be well-equipped to handle such situations. 

5. Rideshare Company Negligence

Ultimately, all of these risks boil down to corporate responsibility, i.e., Lyft/Uber must ensure its fleet isn't composed of inexperienced drivers or those caught violating traffic rules relentlessly.

Plus, vehicles need regular maintenance. Tired brakes and bald tires can lead to accidents even without fault from the driver/passenger.

Loopholes within background checks or nonchalance towards customer complaints about unsafe conduct from drivers all contribute grossly to negligence from rideshare companies. To prevent accidents and other safety concerns related to human error, ridesharing companies should practice thorough screenings on prospective drives and measures in place for customer feedback.

Watching out for defects under the vehicular inspection platform reassures customers as well lets Uber/Lyft intervene immediately when problematic occurrence arises.

Conclusion

Understanding the common causes of Uber accidents and taking proactive measures to prevent them is essential for promoting safety and minimizing the risk of accidents. By identifying the key factors contributing to these incidents, Uber drivers and passengers can work together to create a safer transportation environment.