Rideshare drivers take unnecessary risks

If you are like many in Texas, you have discovered the benefits of ridesharing. It is convenient, affordable, and easy to use. You don’t have to carry cash since the whole transaction occurs on your app. Often, an Uber or Lyft driver will arrive much faster than a cab or bus, and you can get the satisfaction of knowing you are helping someone who may be trying to earn a little extra cash at a time when the economy is so uncertain.

However, you may also know from experience that not every rideshare driver has your safety in mind. In fact, a recent survey shows that you are very likely to be involved in a rideshare accident caused by a driver who takes dangerous chances behind the wheel.

Not looking out for your safety

Ridesharing is most common for those who do not want to drive after an evening of drinking. You may hail an Uber or Lyft when you don’t want to deal with parking, or if you take rare trips by car and don’t want the bother of owning a vehicle. The odds that you will arrive safely are still in your favor, however, since the two largest ridesharing companies report safely completing billions of rides each year. Nevertheless, over 100 ridesharing passengers died in accidents between 2017 and 2018.

Most of the ridesharing companies do background checks and monitor their drivers by GPS for your safety. Still, more than a third of passengers surveyed report the following unsafe behavior by their drivers:

• Reckless driving, which may include running red lights, driving at speeds significantly higher than the posted limit, swerving between lanes or other life-threatening actions
• Texting or using social media while driving
• Watching videos while driving
• Responding to traffic situations with road rage, including tailgating or yelling at other drivers
• Driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol

You always have the right to end the ride and report the driver to the rideshare company. Drivers rely on positive ratings, and your comments on the app may protect other passengers. However, you may not be fortunate enough to finish your ride and leave your review. If you suffer injuries in a ridesharing accident, you may have many complicated issues to resolve, including obtaining the compensation you deserve for your injuries. You would be wise to seek legal advice about the most appropriate options for your situation.