Uber Accidents: The Cost of Convenience

For many people, using a ride-share application like Uber can be a much safer alternative to driving under the influence of alcohol. According to a 2017 study by Stonehill and Providence Colleges, the use of Uber has reduced DUI’s and alcohol-related accidents by as much as 62 percent in observed areas.

However, those who use the ridesharing services or who share the road with Uber drivers are still at risk of being involved in severe and potentially fatal collisions. According to a 2016 report from the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), Uber-affiliated vehicles were involved in 753 injury-causing accidents. Although a representative from Uber stated that this data was inaccurate, TLC spokesman Allan Fromberg stood by the organization’s studies.

 “Measuring incidents solely by a vehicle’s base affiliation attribute incidents to Uber bases even when other services are dispatching drivers,” said Wing from Uber. However, Fromberg highlighted the importance of matching cars to bases, stating that the agency’s methods “[provide] a level of accountability that is central to public safety and consumer protection.”

Since 2016, the monthly number of Uber’s active global users has increased from 50 million to 110 million, providing nearly 15 million rides per day to customers worldwide. In New York alone, ride-share applications like Uber gave an average of over 15 million trips per month by the end of 2017. With more and more consumers gravitating toward ride-share apps like Uber, a new report from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business estimates that as much as 2 to 4 percent of collisions in a studied area may be due to ride-sharing applications. According to this study, ridesharing services like Uber increase the number of cars out on the road, effectively contributing to traffic congestion and crowding on the road.

Because Uber drivers are technically considered contractors instead of employees, Uber can deny liability for collisions. In their terms and conditions, the company states that it cannot be held responsible for the negligence of its drivers. However, there are some cases in which Uber may be held responsible.  

Contact a New York Uber Accident Attorney

Have you been injured in a collision because of the negligent actions of an Uber driver? Hach & Rose, LLP wants you to know that you have the right to seek compensation if your accident was caused by negligence. Although ridesharing services and injury lawsuits against them are relatively new, our experienced team of attorneys has the knowledge to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our Uber Accident lawyers at Hach & Rose, LLP to discuss your rights and legal options. We’re here to support you, so call us at (212) 779-0057 or reach out to us online.

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