The Most Common Ways Uber and Lyft Drivers Cause Accidents
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way we travel, but they’ve also introduced new safety concerns. Accidents involving rideshare vehicles often happen for many of the same reasons as other car crashes, but there are unique risks tied to the rideshare industry.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving
Rideshare drivers constantly interact with the app — accepting rides, checking routes, or messaging riders. This split attention increases the chance of accidents. - Speeding and Reckless Driving
To maximize trips (and income), some drivers speed or take risks on the road. This behavior puts passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers in danger. - Fatigue
Many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours or drive late at night. Fatigue slows reaction time and can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. - Unfamiliar Roads
Because drivers may not know the area well, they often rely heavily on GPS. Last-second turns, sudden stops, or lane changes while navigating can easily cause a collision. - Improper Pickups and Drop-Offs
Stopping in unsafe places — like double-parking, blocking traffic, or letting passengers out in crosswalks — often leads to accidents. - Failure to Follow Traffic Laws
Running red lights, failing to yield, or ignoring pedestrian crossings are frequent causes of crashes.
Why This Matters for Rideshare Accident Victims
If you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in New Jersey, the case can be more complicated than a typical car accident. Insurance coverage depends on whether the driver was waiting for a ride, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone.
At Embden Law, LLC, we help injured clients navigate these unique legal issues, making sure insurance companies don’t take advantage of the confusion rideshare accidents can create.
