Ride-hailing services, such as Lyft and Uber, are becoming increasingly popular in Ohio and around the country. In fact, the Pew Research Center reports that nearly 40% of Americans use these services.
The popularity of ride-hailing services does not make them inherently safe. Here are four common reasons ride-hailing vehicles end up in car accidents.
1. Distracted driving
Because distracted driving is always dangerous, it is illegal in Ohio. If your ride-hailing driver devotes too much attention to his or her GPS system, an accident may be imminent. The same is true if your driver engages in deep conversation, sends text messages or listens to fast-tempo music.
2. Speeding
To increase his or her pay, your ride-hailing driver must complete as many rides as possible. Because there are only so many hours in a day, your driver may push the speed limit or blow through changing traffic lights. These risky behaviors may put your life in danger.
3. Poor visibility
Ride-hailing services are popular at night, especially for riders who choose to imbibe in bars or clubs. Nighttime driving, though, may require maneuvering a vehicle with reduced visibility. Put simply, if your ride-hailing driver cannot see effectively, he or she may inadvertently cause a traffic accident.
4. Weather conditions
Because walking during snow and rain is not ideal, you may prefer to use a ride-hailing service during inclement weather. Amateur drivers, like those who work for ride-hailing services, may have limited experience driving on slippery roads.
Whether because of bad weather, poor visibility, speeding or distracted driving, a crash in a ride-hailing vehicle may leave you with life-altering injuries. Identifying the cause of the accident may be key in obtaining the financial compensation you deserve.