Ridesharing Accidents Linked to Pick Ups and Drop Offs

Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we get around. After all, it’s hard to beat having your own personal driver as close as that app on your phone. While the convenience can’t be denied, it’s also important to consider the inherent dangers, including an increased incidence of traffic accidents – especially during the course of pickups and drop offs. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s time to consult with an experienced NYC rideshare accident attorney.

What do the Numbers Say?

Recent research out of Columbia University indicates that Uber and Lyft have provided more than 11 billion rides in the United States alone since they burst onto the scene in 2010. Past studies do indicate that, when a major rideshare company comes to town, the city typically realizes a decrease in alcohol-related crashes but not in traffic accidents overall.

After carefully accommodating for a variety of significant variables, the recent research out of Columbia demonstrates that an increase in rideshare trips are linked to an increase in traffic accidents that leave motorists and pedestrians injured. The research indicates that the decrease in alcohol-related crashes associated with Uber and Lyft is offset by an increase in other kinds of accidents. The study suggests that those cities that see a large number of rideshare trips, like NYC, should consider implementing infrastructure to help facilitate safer drop offs and pick ups.

Rideshare Trips

When you choose to take Uber or Lyft to get you where you need to be, the last thing you probably consider is any danger that might be involved. Often, we turn to these rideshare companies so we can go out, have a drink or two, and not worry about the risk of driving while under the influence of alcohol, and that’s a very responsible approach to take. There are, however, some dangers specific to this mode of transportation, including:

• Rideshare drivers are not professional drivers, and they aren’t held to the same strict rules and regulations that commercial drivers are. Further, rideshare drivers need no special licensure or experience to ferry you around the City.
• Rideshare drivers do a lot of picking up and dropping off, which means they enter and exit traffic frequently. Additionally, these drivers are tasked with looking for their fares as they maneuver through traffic – even as they may be driving through areas of the City that they aren’t used to.

Hailing rides with rideshare companies comes with its own unique risks.

Consult with an Experienced NYC Rideshare Accident Attorney Today

If a rideshare driver’s negligence leaves you injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, the dedicated rideshare accident attorneys at Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman in New York City have the experience, commitment, and resources to skillfully advocate for your case’s best possible outcome. Our firm is one of the oldest and best-established firms in the City, and we pride ourselves on helping clients like you obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact or call us at 212-285-3300 today.