Ridesharing Car Accidents in Orlando

The emergence of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft has dramatically transformed Orlando’s transportation landscape, and ridesharing car accidents are up. As these platforms gain popularity among both residents and tourists, they’re changing how people move around the city, impacting traffic patterns and raising new questions about accident liability.

Impact of Ridesharing Car Accidents

While comprehensive data is still emerging, the increase in ridesharing car accidents in Orlando has influenced overall car crash rates in several ways:

1. Distracted Driving:
   Rideshare drivers often need to check their phones for directions or new ride requests, potentially increasing distracted driving incidents.
2. Unfamiliar Roads:
   Many rideshare drivers may be operating in areas they’re not familiar with, especially around tourist destinations, which can lead to hesitation or sudden maneuvers.
3. Fatigue:
   Some drivers work long hours to maximize earnings, potentially leading to driver fatigue and increased accident risk.
4. Passenger Behavior:
   Intoxicated passengers or those in a hurry can distract drivers or encourage unsafe driving practices.

The rise of ridesharing car accidents has complicated the landscape of accident liability:

1. Insurance Coverage Gaps:
   Questions can arise about whether the rideshare company’s insurance or the driver’s insurance is responsible in the event of an accident.
2. Driver Status:
   Liability can depend on whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger, en route to pick up a passenger, or logged into the app but not yet matched with a ride.
3. Company vs. Independent Contractor:
   The classification of drivers as independent contractors rather than employees can affect liability in accident cases.
4. Passenger Responsibility:
   In some cases, passengers may bear some responsibility if their actions contributed to an accident.

Preventing Ridesharing Car Accidents

For Passengers:

1. Verify your driver and vehicle before entering.
2. Always wear your seatbelt.
3. Monitor your ride’s progress and share your trip details with a friend.
4. Report any unsafe driving behavior to the rideshare company.

For Drivers:

1. Minimize phone use while driving; use a mount for GPS navigation.
2. Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
3. Familiarize yourself with high-traffic areas and common destinations.
4. Understand your insurance coverage and when it applies.

For Other Motorists:

1. Be aware of common rideshare pickup and drop-off points.
2. Exercise patience with drivers stopping frequently or driving slowly while searching for passengers.
3. Stay alert for passengers entering or exiting vehicles, especially in busy areas.

If you’re involved in ridesharing car accidents:

1. Ensure everyone’s safety and call emergency services if needed.
2. Document the scene thoroughly, including photos and witness information.
3. Report the incident to the rideshare company immediately.
4. Consider consulting with a car accident attorney familiar with rideshare cases.

The Future of Ridesharing in Orlando

The rise of ridesharing in Orlando has brought both convenience and challenges. While it offers flexible transportation options, it also introduces new complexities in traffic management and accident liability. As both a hub for tourism and a growing metropolitan area, Orlando serves as a microcosm for the broader impacts of ridesharing on urban environments.

By staying informed about these changes and practicing safe driving habits, Orlando’s residents and visitors can help ensure that ridesharing continues to be a positive addition to the city’s transportation options while minimizing the risks of car accidents and related liabilities.

Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida, including Orlando, Kissimmee, Apopka, Palm Bay, Ocala, and Haines City.