Are Ridesharing Companies Really Reducing Drunk Driving Accidents?

 Posted on March 10, 2021 in Car Accident

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 services such as Uber and Lyft claim to have made an impact, but have they really? Or are they simply contributing to more accidents? The following explores both sides and provides important information for car crash victims.

Studies on Rideshares and DUIs Have Mixed Results

While numerous studies on the potential benefits (or lack of benefits) of rideshare programs have been done, they continue to come up with mixed results. Some indicate that rideshare programs have not had a significant 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 who are using the popular non-driving option—not those who would have otherwise driven intoxicated. Others have determined that drunk driving accidents—especially at night—have declined since the inception 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 are traffic accidents that have led to serious injury or death. Then, there are issues with rape, assault, and other violent acts committed by rideshare drivers, as well as people posing as rideshare drivers. Both of 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 services certainly raise a cause for concern.

Obtain Fair Compensation After an Auto Accident With Help From a San Jose Injury Lawyer

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. Contact an experienced Santa Clara County car crash attorney at Fuller Law Office to get the help you need. Call 408-234-7563 to schedule a free consultation today. We will work hard to protect your rights, and we will help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Schedule a personalized consultation with us today.

Sources:

https://www.safety.com/ridesharing-reduce-drunk-driving-incidents/

https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/05/10/drunk-driving-arrests-decline-in-some-cities/