A recent study conducted by the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) reveals a concerning trend: one in three (or 33 percent) of all rideshare drivers have been involved in a crash while on the job. Published in the Journal of Safety Research, this study analyzed survey responses from 277 rideshare drivers, shedding light on the unique challenges and hazards faced by this growing workforce.
The research identified several factors contributing to these alarming crash rates.
Cellphone use, driving while fatigued, and navigating unfamiliar roads were all cited as behaviors increasing the likelihood of a collision. Many drivers, who often work long hours, experience fatigue due to irregular schedules and the demanding nature of the job. Distractions such as responding to calls or texts while driving further exacerbate the risks.
Additionally, the study highlights the impact of passenger behavior on driver safety. Disorderly or intoxicated passengers can create stressful situations for drivers, leading to impaired focus on the road. This stress is compounded by the fact that many rideshare drivers work part-time, increasing the likelihood of fatigue while driving.
“You’ve got a stranger entering your vehicle. They may be unruly. They may be drunk,” explains coauthor Lee Friedman, a research professor with the UIC School of Public Health, in a statement.
If you ask any Lyft or Uber driver, chances are they can recount at least one dreadful experience with a passenger who was excessively intoxicated or simply behaved uncivilly. Dealing with a rider who seems on the brink of vomiting or passing out in the back seat can seriously disrupt the driver, particularly since it’s all happening within their own vehicle.
To address these issues, the authors suggest implementing measures such as higher pay rates or allocating a larger percentage of fares to drivers. This could potentially reduce driver fatigue by allowing for fewer working hours and more breaks. Furthermore, more research into the psychological and physical stressors faced by rideshare drivers is needed to improve working conditions.
Moving forward, the UIC team plans to conduct further surveys and analyze crash data to better understand the factors contributing to accidents involving rideshare drivers. With better data and collaboration between companies and lawmakers, improvements in working conditions can be achieved, ensuring safer experiences for both drivers and passengers alike.
