Ridesharing and Drunk Drivers: Are the Potential Benefits Worth the Risk?

 Posted on December 27, 2016 in Personal Injury

Drunk driving is a serious and pervasive issue in the United States. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as 28 people are killed in drunk driving accidents per day. That is approximately one death every 53 minutes. Thousands more are seriously or permanently injured by a drunk driver. Ridesharing programs claim to have made an impact – but have they really? Or are they simply contributing to more accidents?

Studies on Rideshares and DUIs Have Mixed Results

While a few studies on the potential benefits (or lack of benefits) of rideshare programs like Uber and Lyft have been done, they continue to come up with mixed results. Some indicate that rideshare programs have not had an impact on the number of drunk driving accidents. These studies posture that it is only those who might have otherwise taken a taxi or bus that are using the popular non-driving option – not those that would have otherwise driven intoxicated. Others have determined that drunk driving accidents – particularly nighttime accidents – have declined since the conception of rideshare programs.

Unfortunately, it is next to impossible to determine who is right or wrong. Results have not been duplicated, and there are not enough rideshare drivers to get a truly accurate analysis. So, truthfully, only time will be able to determine for certain whether or not these alternatives to driving are helping to cut back on the number of intoxicated drivers in America.

Possible Issues with Rideshare Programs May Negate Benefits

All across the country, issues with rideshare programs have begun cropping up. There have been accidents that have led to serious injury or death. Then, there have been incidents of rape, assault, and other violent acts committed by rideshare drivers, as well as people posing as rideshare drivers. Both these issues suggest that the risks of rideshare could very well negate any potential benefits they may offer. Add that to the extreme difficulty that many victims have experienced when trying to obtain compensation and the rideshare programs certainly raise a cause for concern.

Obtaining Fair Compensation After an Auto Accident

If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver or rideshare driver, it is important that you seek experienced legal assistance with your case. Insurance companies may try to minimize the impact that the accident has had on your life. Some may even attempt to completely deny your claim. Our experienced DuPage County personal injury attorneys can protect your rights, and we will help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Schedule a personalized consultation with us today.

Sources:

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2783797

http://money.cnn.com/2016/07/29/technology/uber-drunk-driving/

http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/318793/uber-encouraging-insurance-fraud-driver