Whether you’re a pedestrian, another driver on the road, a bicyclist, or even a passenger in a ridesharing vehicle, there are plenty of risks involved. It’s important to understand the potential dangers of Uber or Lyft drivers and how they can cause significant accidents.
It’s important for individuals to be aware of the potential causes of ridesharing accidents, and to take legal action to hold the responsible party accountable. Here are the common reasons for these types of accidents.
Distracted Driving
The most common cause of Uber or Lyft accidents is distracted driving. There are a number of factors that can cause the driver to be distracted, aside from having a passenger in the vehicle and attempting to strike up conversation.
For instance, the driver may be paying more attention to the sidewalk than the road, looking for their passenger. They may also be checking their phone when they are pinged with a new potential ride. They always check the phone when pinged because a new ride means more money.
Uber and Lyft drivers are often driving in neighborhoods with which they are unfamiliar. Instead of focusing on the roadway in front of the driver, the driver may be looking at Waze or Google Maps on the driver’s cell phone. This puts everyone at risk – the rideshare passengers and anyone on the roadway near that vehicle.
Drunk Driving
Even though we expect Uber or Lyft rides to be safer than drinking and driving, there are times when the driver of the rideshare vehicle is negligent as well. This can result in serious accidents that cause significant harm to passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, or bicyclists.
Unexpected Stopping
Uber and Lyft drivers are always looking for their passengers and checking their phones for the next ride. If they come upon an area where their passengers are but there’s no place to park, they may stop unexpectedly on the road. This can cause traffic to pile up and result in multiple cars crashing.
Knowing the potential cause of an Uber or Lyft accident can help injured people understand liability and who may be held accountable for the damages they have sustained. Most often, though, liability falls on rideshare drivers whose negligent actions cause serious harm.
At McGee Lerer, we take these matters very seriously. Our Long Beach rideshare accident lawyers work hard to protect your rights when you’ve been hurt, and we are committed to helping you reach the most favorable outcome you deserve.
Call our firm today at (562) 270-0546 to discuss your potential case.