With younger generations choosing not to get their driver’s licenses and more car crashes occurring every year, it’s no wonder that people are transitioning into newer methods of transportation such as rideshare services. Since their implementation in the 2010s, these have become a staple in major cities and suburban areas alike.
However, the introduction of rideshare services has done little to combat the growing issue of motor vehicle accidents. In fact, research finds that there may be a correlation between introduction of these services and fatal crashes.
RESEARCH FINDINGS
Researchers from the University of Chicago and Rice University have studied the connection between ridesharing and crashes for the past several years. Their primary study analyzed quarterly nationwide crash data from 2001 to 2016. The results showed that after a service like Uber or Lyft launched in a city or region, there was a 3% increase in annual fatal car crashes, resulting in just under 1,000 fatalities.
However, it should be noted that the study did not find a causal relationship between ridesharing services and fatal car accidents. It only found a correlation between the two variables which means more research is needed to determine if one actually causes the other.
REASONS FOR INCREASED FATALITIES
There are several potential explanations for why the introduction of rideshare services may lead to an increase in fatal car accidents. First, there is the issue of distracted driving. Ridesharing drivers have to constantly be on their phones and tablets, checking maps and messaging passengers, which can lead to dangerous distractions while they’re behind the wheel.
Another issue is the lack of regulations and oversight that these services are subject to. Rideshare drivers don’t have to follow the same safety protocols as taxi drivers in most cities, which can lead to inexperienced or untrained drivers on the road. Furthermore, many of these services employ part-time workers who may not be familiar with local roads and traffic patterns.
RIDESHARE ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS IN HOUSTON
If you’re a victim of a rideshare accident in Houston, it’s important to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. At Potts Law Firm, our attorneys understand the intricacies of rideshare accidents and can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
We have over 250 years of combined experience handling motor vehicle accident cases and are committed to providing superior legal advocacy for our clients.
Contact us online to schedule a consultation or give us a call at (888) 902-6245.