Top 7 Causes of Uber & Lyft Accidents

When we use a rideshare company like Uber or Lyft, we expect drivers to abide by the laws and drive safely. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Uber and Lyft accidents have been on the rise as more and more people use rideshare services. Our Houston Uber and Lyft accident attorneys explain the top seven factors that contribute to rideshare accidents.

#1: Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of rideshare accidents. As rideshare drivers look and type in information to get directions, they aren’t paying attention to the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting or inputting directions takes your eyes off the road for five seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.

#2: Scanning for Passengers

Rideshare drivers aren’t always familiar with the areas they pick up passengers. This means they have to look and scan closely to find the right street and passenger on the side of the road. These driving habits result in slow driving, unexpected stops, and sudden accidents.

#3: Driver Fatigue

Rideshare workers often drive for many hours using several accounts. For others, being a rideshare driver is their side job – long work hours can contribute to driver fatigue. Research shows that driving fatigued is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

#4: Parking In Unsafe Areas

When rideshare drivers pick up or drop off passengers, they often park in unsafe areas. This can affect the surrounding traffic and can put vehicles and pedestrians in danger.

#5: Failure to Properly Maintain Vehicle

Car malfunctions are another common cause of rideshare accidents. When Uber or Lyft drivers fail to maintain their vehicles properly, they become a serious hazard on the road. Common issues include faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and more.

#6: Driving Intoxicated

Although most people request an Uber or Lyft to prevent drinking and driving, there are unfortunately cases when rideshare drivers are intoxicated on the job. Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, opioids, or other drugs severely impair a driver.

#7: Reckless Driving

Another common cause of rideshare accidents includes reckless driving. Common forms of reckless driving include speeding, tailgating, avoiding traffic signals, and abrupt lane changes.

If you or your loved one were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, get in touch with our Houston rideshare accident lawyers today at (888) 273-1045!