Uber and Lyft are seen in the marketplace as a more convenient option. Ridesharing is a current trend for people who want to commute, but these apps are equally popular amongst those who own a vehicle and simply want convenience in their lives. However, the Lyft and Uber driver accident rate might give you some pause.
The biggest concern with Uber and Lyft is safety. With just about anyone being able to become a driver, there are minimal background checks or training, which doesn’t always ensure safety. Not only are accidents common, but riders are also at risk because of the poor customer service to take care of any issue they may have.
What is the Lyft and Uber Driver Accident Rate?
According to researchers from the University of Chicago and Rice University, rideshare services led to a 3% increase in accident-related deaths, which includes both passengers and pedestrians. With so many more cars on the road and less public transportation, it’s no wonder these rates have risen so dramatically.
Since the launch of Lyft and Uber in many major cities, almost 1,000 fatal accidents occur daily due to the number of rideshare vehicles on the road. This accident rate persists, regardless of whether it happens during the weekday or weekend (both day and evening).
The issue has gotten so bad that other cities, like New York City, are placing a cap on how many Uber and Lyft drivers are allowed in a city.
Here are a few other statistics to give you pause:
- In 2010, the U.S. experienced the lowest number of road deaths since 1949 — 32,885 deaths occurred that year.
- In 2016, that number increased by a sizeable amount. The U.S. experienced 37,400 fatalities. Researchers believe that the rise in popularity of rideshare companies have contributed significantly to this number.
Are Uber and Lyft Liable for Auto Accidents in Florida?
Due to legal requirements, the two rideshare companies do provide insurance for their drivers. The level of coverage depends on the circumstances. If a driver gets into a collision while logged into their respective rideshare app and waiting for a passenger request, here is the level of coverage Uber provides:
- $50,000 per person in a covered accident
- $100,000 per covered accident
- Property damage liability for $25,000 per covered accident
However, the liability coverage increases to $1 million once a driver accepts a passenger request.
Keep in mind that neither company will cover an accident that occurred while a driver was offline, or not on the app.
Were You in a Rideshare Accident?
Considering the Lyft and Uber accident rate, there is a high chance that you have gotten into an accident as a passenger or as another driver in a collision. As soon as you report the accident, be sure to call a car accident attorney to begin gathering evidence for your claim and get the compensation you deserve.
