The growing popularity of rideshare vehicles changed when the coronavirus pandemic hit. However, some drivers are still out there, and rideshares tend to become even more prevalent around the holiday season to assist with drunk drivers.
Rideshare accidents can be devastating to experience, and drivers may not always be willing to report the crash. However, if you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident, you should recognize some of the common causes and how this situation can lead to filing a claim.
Distractions
When a rideshare driver receives a new fare, they get a ping to their smartphone. Drivers must manually accept or decline this notification. When they do this, they have to look away from the road, take at least one hand off the steering wheel, and focus on their response. These actions combine all three forms of distracted driving.
Unfamiliar Territory
Rideshare drivers may not always be from where they take fares. They go to busier areas to get more passengers, which means they may not be familiar with streets, traffic patterns, and other situations that can cause confusion.
Scanning for Passengers
Rideshare drivers spend 40-60% of their time on the road distracted. Not only because they’re checking their smartphone, but also because they scan sidewalks looking for their passengers. Doing this causes rideshare drivers to drive slowly, creating potential dangers for those around them.
Negligence
Rideshare drivers should be responsible, but they are not immune to negligence. They may speed, drive unsafe for weather conditions, or otherwise act recklessly on the road. They may also make illegal U-turns if they need to get to a passenger.
Our Austin car accident attorneys at Briggle & Polan, PLLC work hard on your behalf. We aim to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve to move forward after an injury stemming from a rideshare accident. We stand by your side, advocating against large insurance companies when you need it most.
Call our firm today at (512) 400-3278 to discuss your rights in a free consultation.