How improper parking increases rideshare crash risk

Rideshare services advertise themselves as a way to enhance public safety. In theory, providing transportation for people who are sick, inebriated or unfamiliar with the area can reduce collision risk.

However, rideshare drivers generally need to move quickly to optimize the number of trips they complete and keep their passengers happy when the time comes to leave a gratuity. In addition to driving aggressively, rideshare drivers may also make the mistake of parking in hazardous locations, which can lead to increased crash risk for their passengers.

Unsafe parking is a known issue

Rideshare drivers often do not circle the block looking for a safe and legal place to park when picking up a passenger or dropping them off at their destination. They may double park or turn on their emergency flashing lights while occupying a driving lane.

Parking in the most convenient location can block traffic. The issue is so widespread that municipal authorities in California have previously demanded information from rideshare apps regarding the frequency with which drivers engage in unsafe parking and other dangerous practices.

If a crash occurs while a rideshare vehicle is parked for drop-off or pickup, the passenger is at risk of the crash occurring before the driver starts the ride or after they technically end the ride. They may then need to file a claim against the individual rideshare driver’s coverage instead of against the corporate policy for the rideshare app.

Reviewing the circumstances of a recent rideshare collision can help injured passengers understand their rights. Insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits are both possible when they ride share trip results in a collision instead of safe transportation.