What Is the Cause of Most Rear-End Collisions in Denver?
The popularity of rideshare services has increased over the years. Many users utilize Uber and Lyft as their primary means of transportation for work commutes and other everyday activities. Conversely, others may use it as an alternative to taking a taxicab, renting a car, or establishing a driver. These services are so popular that there are more than 93 million active Uber users across the globe. That number is exponentially higher than the number of people using the service when it first launched in 2009.
However, with the increase in popularity has also come a higher number of rideshare accidents. While some accidents are minor, others could be catastrophic or deadly. You might not know what to do after sustaining injuries from a rideshare driver, so it will be in your best interest to contact a Denver rideshare accident attorney. They can investigate your claim and work to hold the liable party accountable for their negligent actions.
Important Uber and Lyft Accident Statistics
The University of Chicago recently conducted a study analyzing rideshare accidents and fatalities. Overall, the study found that services like Uber and Lyft have contributed to a 3% increase in car accidents. Researchers determined this figure by reviewing eight financial quarters for both companies and looked at passenger usage between 2010 and 2016, analyzing auto accidents, preferred transportation methods, and traffic volume.
The study found:
- Nearly 1,000 daily car accident deaths result from the increasing number of ridesharing vehicles on the road.
- Uber vehicles were in 97 fatal crashes between 2017 and 2018.
- The crashes resulted in 107 deaths.
- 21% were riders, 21% were drivers, and the remaining 58% were third-party accident victims, such as other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
- 90% of accidents occur in urban areas.
The study also mentions that an increase in rideshare accidents is due to more Uber and Lyft drivers spending a considerable amount of time on the roads. Drivers do not spend their time solely transporting passengers. Most drivers spend about half their time looking for fares or traveling to pick up passengers, contributing to road congestion.
What Do These Statistics Mean?
Researchers are still debating what these statistics mean, but many seem to agree that ridesharing services have helped reduce the number of drunk drivers on the road. Fewer drunk drivers on the road mean fewer drunk driving accidents, which are among the country’s most common, dangerous, and deadly auto accidents. Even so, while the number of drunk driving accidents has decreased, the overall amount of car accidents has increased.
What to Do after a Rideshare Accident in Colorado
The aftermath of an accident in an Uber or Lyft can be disorienting, but the steps you take next may be vital to your case. Report the accident to the police and the rideshare service. There is a button on both apps that allow you to report a crash. If you do not report the accident to Uber or Lyft, their insurance provider might question the legitimacy of your injuries.
Collect as much information as possible about the accident scene and the drivers involved. This includes taking photos of the location and damage to the vehicles, collecting names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information for all the drivers involved in the crash.
How Drivers and Pedestrians Can Stay Safe from Rideshare Vehicles
Since ridesharing is so popular, drivers and pedestrians must be mindful when they are present. Fortunately, Uber and Lyft require drivers to park their vehicles, so you can quickly identify these vehicles. To stay safe, drivers and pedestrians should keep the following in mind.
Drivers
Be aware that rideshare vehicles may drive slowly or suddenly pull over to pick up or drop off passengers. Additionally, understand that Uber or Lyft drivers may rely on GPS to get them to where they are going, causing them to be distracted.
Pedestrians
Uber and Lyft vehicles may enter or exit parking lots or driveways suddenly and quickly. Additionally, many use roadside parking, which may cause a collision. Never assume that a driver can see you. Ensure you always stand or walk in well-lit areas, especially at night.
Skilled Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Colorado Will Fight For You
If you were involved in a rideshare accident in Colorado, contact the injury attorneys at Mintz Law Firm. Whether you were a passenger, a pedestrian, or another driver, our team of legal professionals will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Our car accident attorneys and pedestrian attorneys will launch a thorough investigation into the collision and the circumstances leading up to it. We will stop at nothing to ensure that the responsible party is held accountable for their actions. To schedule a free consultation, call (303) 462-2999 or complete our contact form.