5 Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshares are something that have really taken hold and become quite the trend in the past few years. They offer people a quick and convenient way to get around, and are proving to be a great alternative to the traditional public transportation or cab option. Thanks to their rise in popularity, they are also more accessible than ever before, with many cities and towns across the country offering some sort of rideshare option.

But for all the convenience and benefits a rideshare offers, there are still some things to be aware of. Just like any other vehicle on the road today, rideshares aren’t immune to accidents. A car accident can happen to anyone at any time regardless of the weather and road conditions. But what are the most common causes of rideshare accidents? Let’s examine them closer.

Distracted Driving Plays a Huge Role

Just like with any other car accident, distracted driving can be a huge factor at play when it comes to a rideshare accident. Any time the driver becomes distracted by an electronic device, a passenger, or something not related to the road, it can result in an accident. Accidents happen in a blink of an eye, so that break in focus is all it takes. And because distracted driving happens at all speeds, weather conditions, and road conditions, it really tends to be a leading cause of accidents.

Rideshare drivers need to be alert and focused on the road at all times, which means tuning all distractions out.

Driving an Unsafe Vehicle

The condition of the vehicle can also play a role in accidents. Because rideshare drivers are using their own vehicles, you have to trust that they are actually performing the proper maintenance steps and paying attention to any issues.

The Driver Is Over-Tired and Not Focused

Rideshare drivers are just like any other driver, and they can get tired while at the wheel. This is especially true if they take long shifts, spending large amounts of time on the road. Dozing off at the wheel is incredibly dangerous, and is something that drivers always need to be mindful of.

Making Unsafe Decisions on the Road

Knowing the rules of the road is only half the battle; there is also the other side of things which is making smart and safe decisions on the road. Dangerous lane changes, not signaling to let other drivers know their intentions, speeding, and not driving to the conditions of the road and weather are all unsafe decisions on the road. Each and every one of these can lead to an accident. Some decisions may even be classified as reckless driving, which is a very serious offence.

Parking in a Dangerous Spot

Then there is parking the vehicle, which needs to be done in a safe manner. If the driver parks in a no parking zone, or a place where it’s unsafe to stop, it can result in an accident.

Each of these factors can most definitely play a role in rideshare accidents, which is why it’s so important for drivers to be responsible and safe at all times.