What Are Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Florida?

Rideshare companies have become increasingly more popular. Rideshare is the modern-day taxi, and individuals who are looking for additional income might work with rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft. However, as rideshare drivers increase, so do potential dangers for both the driver and the passengers.

Even if drivers are careful, various elements of rideshare driving contribute to auto accidents. For the safety of everyone, it’s critical to understand the most common causes of rideshare accidents.

5 Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Florida

Understanding the factors leading to an accident can help prove liability and hold the at-fault party accountable. In Florida, here are five common causes for rideshare accidents.

Distracted Driving

While distractions are common for many drivers, it’s arguably part of the job for rideshare drivers. Drivers often need to reference their phones, which means they need to keep them in clear view. Whether they’re answering the phone or sending a message to the individual they’re picking up, looking away from the road for that slight second can have dire consequences. Additionally, constantly reaching for their phones means driving with one hand, which can also be dangerous.

Speeding

Rideshare drivers usually get paid by fare instead of hourly. Some drivers may drive faster to a destination to get in as many fares as possible for the day. While it’s understandable that they are trying to earn more money, speeding can have severe consequences. Injuries in a speeding accident can include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and more.

Unfamiliar Locations

Rideshare drivers sometimes need to leave their neighborhoods or cities for fares. In some situations, they need to leave their areas to find more opportunities for fares. Unfortunately, because they are in unfamiliar areas, they are unfamiliar with that area’s driving and traffic habits, putting them at a disadvantage.

Illegal U-Turns

Illegal u-turns and sudden stops can cause some of the worst accidents. Drivers don’t have the time to prepare or react to a rideshare driver’s last-minute decision to slow down or make an illegal turn for the sake of their fare.

Fatigue

Many rideshare drivers may work late into the night or work long hours to make money. Unfortunately, driving while tired is dangerous because it negatively affects a driver’s cognitive function. A tired driver may not react as quickly to situations that can lead to a collision.

It’s impossible to completely prevent car accidents, but keeping these common causes of accidents in mind can help prevent rideshare accidents. In the event of an accident during a rideshare, whether you’re the driver or a passenger, you’ll want to contact a Florida rideshare accident lawyer.

Contact a Florida Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Car wrecks can be a traumatic experience. A rideshare accident can feel even more overwhelming due to a variety of other factors that need to be addressed after the accident. If anyone sustained any injuries or suffered emotional damages, trying to establish liability and file a claim can get complicated. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, contact a Florida rideshare accident lawyer to help you with your claim.

Robert Baker of Baker Legal Team is a board-certified personal injury attorney who is proud to provide award-winning legal services to his clients. Attorney Baker is committed to being there for his clients through every step of the Florida claims process. Call our office at (561) 320-0000 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.