5 Reasons Your Uber Driver Got Into a Collision
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have set down roots in Sioux Falls and have changed how people move around. These companies are especially convenient for young people who don’t want to buy a car or older residents who need help getting to appointments or running errands. But like other vehicles, they get into many accidents, and you can seek financial compensation if you are injured while riding as a passenger. Our legal team looks at five of the main reasons your driver caused an accident.
Your Driver is Tired
Many people are working gig jobs like Uber or Lyft to cobble together income. Some are even working shifts after finishing a full shift at their regular job. According to one study, around 30% of Uber drivers had other full-time jobs and were driving for supplemental income. Another 30% were working part-time in another job, too. Your driver is probably fatigued, which can increase the risk of a crash. Tired drivers often fall asleep and run a red light or slide off the road.
Your Driver is in a Hurry
Rideshare drivers have an incentive to speed. The faster they reach a destination, the more rides they can accept in a day, which means more money. Unfortunately, speeding is a major contributor to motor vehicle accidents. A speeding driver can rear another vehicle, run a red light, or cut off another driver. Your rideshare driver is usually at fault when they are speeding or have taken risky actions.
Uber Drivers Are Distracted
Rideshare drivers rely on their phone to pick up rides. However, the driver might be looking at their electronic devices when they should have both eyes solidly on the road. They can easily crash into other vehicles.
Other drivers are distracted because they are engaged in a conversation. Although a chatty Uber driver is sometimes nice, these conversations can be distracting.
Some Drivers Are Lost
Not every Lyft or Uber driver in Sioux Falls is a long-time resident. Some people come only for the summer but decide to try their hand at rideshare driving to make extra money. Drivers who are lost might turn to GPS devices or their phone for directions. Taking their eyes off the road, they are at greater risk of crashing into someone else.
The Vehicle is Not Serviced
Finally, some accidents are caused because the vehicle breaks down. An Uber or Lyft driver might fail to make necessary repairs, like fixing the brakes when they begin to squeak. A defect on the car could cause it to go out of control. Many drivers delay repairs because money is too tight. That’s why they are driving for Uber and Lyft in the first place!
Reach Out to Our Law Firm after a Crash
Hoy Law can help anyone involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft. Our team is available to answer questions and explain what evidence you need to bring a claim. Call us or send information online. You can schedule a free consultation with a Sioux Falls rideshare accidents lawyer.
Source:
forbes.com/sites/ellenhuet/2015/01/22/uber-study-workforce/
