More Than 30% of Rideshare Drivers Have Been in Accidents
Many people rely on rideshare apps to get from place to place. In fact, 36% of adults in the United States have used Uber, Lyft, or some other app to catch a ride. Ride sharing is often hailed as a safe form of transportation, but is it really?
A third of ride-share drivers have been involved in a crash while working, according to a new study from University of Illinois Chicago researchers. The study, published in the Journal of Safety Research, is the first of its kind to measure crash frequency among rideshare drivers.
The study surveyed 277 ride-share drivers, revealing that factors like cellphone use, fatigue, and navigating unfamiliar roads significantly increased crash risk. This may not seem like a large percentage of participants, but keep in mind that being a rideshare driver is a relatively new profession, so there’s limited data on injury and health risks among these workers.
While all drivers face risks from fatigue and distraction, rideshare drivers are particularly vulnerable. They often rely on their phones for real-time passenger information and frequently drive as a second job, increasing the likelihood they’re tired behind the wheel.
But it’s not just the phone. Passengers themselves can be a major distraction. Rideshare drivers are letting strangers into their vehicles, and some may be intoxicated or aggressive. That creates a whole new level of stress and unpredictability.”
The stress is compounded by the fact that many drivers use their personal vehicles, which adds pressure to maintain both their car and professionalism under potentially difficult circumstances.
Though the study was based on a relatively small sample, the team has secured grants for broader research, including funding from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to survey more drivers in the United States and Australia. They’re also analyzing crash data from the Illinois Department of Transportation to explore additional risk factors, such as weather and passenger behavior.
Even without the expanded data, researchers say it’s evident that working conditions for gig drivers need improvement. Better pay, for instance, could reduce excessive work hours and allow for more frequent breaks.
There’s a range of stressors, including shift work, verbal abuse from passengers, low job satisfaction, and minimal support from ride-share companies. Addressing these challenges could go a long way toward making the job safer for both drivers and passengers.
Contact Us Today
While Uber and Lyft drivers are hired to drive people, they are not necessarily professionals and they are not perfect. Accidents can still occur at any time. They are not immune.
A rideshare crash can be complex. A Mt. Juliet Uber & Lyft accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC can assist you if you have been a victim. We are ready to build a case for you to ensure you receive the maximum settlement possible. Schedule a consultation with our office today by filling out the online form or calling (615) 622-6060.
Source:
today.uic.edu/rideshare-crash-research/
