October 10, 2024
Top Causes of Uber/Lyft Accidents in Philadelphia
With 21.4 million active Lyft riders and 9.4 billion active Uber rides in 2023 nationwide, commuters across the 50 states have turned to rideshare services for their convenience and speed. Especially in traffic-heavy areas like Philadelphia, Uber and Lyft give residents and tourists a way to navigate the city without worrying about tight roads, potholes, and—presumably—the risk of accidents.
However, Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. has had a different experience. We have seen and helped many clients whose Uber or Lyft drivers got into a collision during their active ride. If this sounds like you, let us tell you what you need to know.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Uber/Lyft Accidents?
As with all other vehicles, Uber and Lyft drivers engage in distracted driving that takes their attention off the road and prevents them from responding to oncoming danger. However, normal passenger vehicles do not need to deal with dedicated apps while driving—rideshare drivers, on the other hand, need to deal with the pressure of accepting new rides on the app to maximize their income. This pressure incentivizes Uber and Lyft drivers to drive distracted, on top of needing to pay attention to their GPS and, at times, converse with passengers.
To add to the pressure, the more passengers a driver picks up and drops off, the more money they make—and the faster they drive to increase their income. Many Uber and Lyft drivers resort to speeding, running red lights, or making illegal turns to complete rides as quickly as possible, which endangers you, the driver, and everyone around them.
Additionally, while professional taxi drivers typically undergo rigorous training and possess veteran driving experience, many Uber and Lyft drivers lack this training and do not share that experience. Under high-pressure situations, this lack of experience can result in poor decisions, which increases the likelihood of accidents.
Lastly, many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours or drive as a second job, which can contribute to accumulating exhaustion. This fatigue can impair their reaction speed and decision-making, which can result in serious accidents.
Can Poor Vehicle Maintenance Cause Rideshare Accidents?
Inflated and fresh tires, functional braking systems, and optimal vehicle maintenance all play important roles in protecting rideshare customers. Uber and Lyft drivers are responsible for upkeeping their own cars, yet they often overlook these mechanical requirements in the interest of saving money. Faulty systems can contribute to preventable accidents and injuries, especially in inclement weather or intense driving scenarios.
The Philadelphia Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. Can Help, No Matter the Cause
If your Uber or Lyft driver got into a collision while giving you an active ride, the Philadelphia Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. can help. Call us at 267-861-7100 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Our Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania offices serve clients in Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown.