Sep 15, 2022 | Uncategorized

Facts and Statistics to Know About Rideshare Accidents

There is no question that the rideshare industry has grown immensely since Uber and Lyft first began in the U.S. But this growth has not come without an increased safety risk to rideshare passengers and motorists. The facts and statistics on the topic are alarming. If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident involving an Uber or Lyft car, contact a skilled rideshare attorney now for assistance.

Ridesharing Statistics in General

The following are some statistics on ridesharing in general:

  • The ridesharing industry is worth an estimated $61 billion,
  • The ridesharing market value is projected to reach an estimated $220 billion by 2025,
  • About 25% of the entire U.S. population uses ridesharing at least once a month,
  • Uber and Lyft are responsible for up to 14% of Vehicle Miles Traveled in some US states,
  • Americans aged 18-29 use ridesharing more often than any other age group, and
  • The average price for an Uber ride is $16.16.

Statistics Involving Safety and Accidents

Uber and Lyft are typically quiet when it comes to releasing accident statistics. But the following are some statistics and facts concerning rideshare accidents and safety:

  • According to a study conducted by professors at the University of Chicago and Rice University, the launch of a ride-hailing platform like Lyft or Uber in a city is associated with a 2-3% increase in the number of fatal accidents and motor vehicle fatalities,
  • This above study translates to about an additional 1,000 motor vehicle fatalities per year,
  • The increase in rideshare accidents seems to persist (and in many cases increase) over time,
  • The accident rate has remained steady throughout weekdays, weeknights, weekend days, and weekend nights, and
  • Uber drivers are fully covered by the company’s auto insurance policy, which includes $1 million in property damage and $1 million in liability coverage

Note also that some research shows that Lyft and Uber drivers contribute to increased congestion on the roads in the cities where they provide their services due to “deadheading.” Deadheading refers to the time that rideshare drivers spend driving around to pick up passengers.  A problem with deadheading is that increased road congestion is linked to a higher rate of collisions. More cars on the road means more opportunities for crashes.

Suing Lyft or Uber for Accident Injuries

You can definitely file a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft if you were injured in an auto accident involving one of the company’s drivers. But keep in mind that to succeed in your legal case, you’ll have to prove that a driver was at fault for causing your injury. You can usually do this via:

  • Police reports,
  • Witness statements,
  • Testimony of the rideshare driver,
  • Your personal testimony, and
  • Photos of the accident.

Compensation in Rideshare Lawsuits

Just because Uber and Lyft carry $1 million insurance policies on their drivers does not mean you will receive the maximum compensation. The amount of money that you can win in an Uber or Lyft lawsuits simply depends on the facts of your case and the extent of your injuries. Note, though, that accident victims can often receive compensation for:

  • Medical expenses,
  • Lost wages,
  • Future lost earning capacity,
  • Property damage,
  • Out of pocket expenses, and
  • Pain and suffering.

Contact Premier Injury Law Firm for Help

If you or a loved one was injured in a rideshare accident, please know that Premier Injury Law Firm is here to help. Our team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let them shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today at 425-333-8888 for the quality legal help you deserve.