Accidents in Rideshares: Is Uber or Lyft Safer? (2024)

Accidents in Rideshares: Is Uber or Lyft Safer? (1)

Company Information

Both Uber and Lyft drivers provide millions of rides daily, offering a robust alternative to traditional taxi services. Uber, launched in 2009, currently has over 1 million US Uber drivers. It is globally known and operates in numerous countries. Lyft, founded in 2012, is primarily active in the United States with 700,000 Lyft drivers.

Uber and Lyft Accident Statistics

Data for non-fatal accidents involving Uber and Lyft remains undisclosed, as these companies do not publicly share all accident statistics.

Rideshare Fatality Data

Accidents in Rideshares: Is Uber or Lyft Safer? (2)Uber released safety reports in 2019 and 2021, revealing that there were 208 fatalities in Uber-related accidents in the US in 2017–2020. The Uber-related motor vehicle fatality rate for 2017 was 0.59 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. It was 0.57 fatalities per 100 million miles traveled in 2018.

Lyft’s safety report from 2021 showed 105 fatalities from 2017–2019. The Lyft-related motor vehicle fatality rate for 2017 was .78 fatalities per 100 million miles traveled. It was .72 in 2018; and .79 in 2019.

When comparing these numbers, Lyft reported fewer yearly fatalities than Uber, but Uber had a lower fatality rate per 100 million miles traveled. As a comparison, according to 2021 data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the fatality rate in DC was 1.26 deaths per 100 million miles traveled and 1.37 deaths per million miles traveled in the United States.

A Rise in Traffic Fatalities in US Cities with Rideshare Services

According to a Study by the University of Chicago and Rice University, cities where Uber and Lyft operate have seen a roughly 3% increase in traffic-related fatalities including pedestrians each year since their introduction. Still, without direct comparative data between the two, it’s challenging to definitively state which service is safer based on this data point.

Other Factors that Contribute to Rider Safety

Both Uber and Lyft have similar policies about other factors that contribute to their riders’ safety.

The Driver’s Competence and Experience

Both Uber and Lyft potential drivers must be 25 years old and have licensed driving experience over 1 year.

The Vehicle’s Condition

The vehicle should undergo regular vehicle maintenance and possess adequate safety features. Both rideshare services require their independent contractors to drive a late model car accommodating four or more passengers with seat belts.

Adherence to Traffic Rules

Both services require drivers to maintain a clean driving record obeying speed limits and traffic signs.

What Role Does the Passenger Play in Rideshare Safety?

Both services acknowledge that passengers also have a role in ensuring their safety and encourage riders to wear seat belts and avoid distracting the driver. Both companies required mask wearing of both drivers and passengers during the pandemic.

How Do Uber and Lyft Select Their Drivers?

Uber’s Selection Criteria: Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license, an eligible vehicle that meets Uber’s standards, and pass a background check, which probes for any criminal history and serious traffic violations.

Lyft’s Selection Criteria: To become a Lyft driver, applicants must hold a valid driver’s license and own a car that meets Lyft’s age and condition requirements. They must also have a clean driving record and successfully pass a background check.

Uber and Lyft Driver Vetting

To further compare these two rideshare services, let’s delve deeper into the vetting process for Uber and Lyft drivers. Both services:

  • Include initial driving and criminal record checks for potential new drivers using third-party services.
  • Require annual driving and criminal record checks with continuous monitoring.
  • Hire drivers as young as 25 years of age with only 1 year of licensed driving experience.
  • Do not mandate drug testing for new drivers.
  • Could hire drivers with a felony conviction that happened only eight years ago.
  • Do not require specialized driver training or testing like that required for Washington, DC taxi drivers.

What Are the App Safety Features in Uber and Lyft?

The Lyft and Uber safety features in the apps include:

  • GPS Tracking: Uber and Lyft both use GPS tracking to monitor rides in real-time, enhancing safety and transparency.
  • Emergency Button/ 911 in App: Both platforms have an in-app emergency button to contact local law enforcement and emergency services instantly if they feel unsafe.
  • Share Route: This feature allows riders to share their trip details with friends or family.
  • RideCheck and Smart Trip Check In: RideCheck with Uber and Smart Trip Check-In with Lyft detect trip irregularities and checks on the rider’s and driver’s safety.
  • Trusted Contact: Trusted contacts can be set up in both apps to easily share ride info.
  • Driver ID: Available in both Uber and Lyft, displays the driver’s verified identity.

How Common Are Sexual Assault Complaints Against Rideshares?

In their 2019 Safety Report, Uber reported 5,981 sexual assaults in 2017 and 2018 from 2.3 billion trips. Released in 2021, the Community Safety Report from Lyft reports 2,351 sexual assaults in 2017 and 2018 from 975 million trips.

Following these reports, Uber and Lyft implemented added safety precautions including a discreet panic feature for passengers to notify the company and police during emergencies. Additionally, Uber launched the Industry Sharing Safety Program, enabling rideshare companies to exchange information on drivers involved in harassment, sexual assault, or sexual offenses.

Is Uber or Lyft Safer?

Both Uber and Lyft have similar fatality rates which are better than the population as a whole. They also have similar passenger safety policies and app features. Based on this comparison, rideshare safety primarily depends on the individual Uber driver or Lyft driver rather than on the safety records of the companies themselves. It is important for riders to keep this in mind and be sure to utilize these safety tips.

How Can I Be Safe When Riding with Uber or Lyft?

Here are some safety measures you can take to assuage your safety concerns and ensure a safe and pleasant journey with either an Uber or Lyft driver:

  • Verify the driver’s identity and car details including license plate number before boarding.
  • Always ride in the back seat and keep personal details private.
  • Use the in-app safety features such as sharing your ride with trusted contacts.
  • Never ride while incapacitated by drugs or alcohol.
  • Always wear your seatbelt.

Get Help If You Are Injured in a Rideshare

If you were injured in an Uber or hurt in a Lyft, Regan Zambri Long PLLC is here to help. Contact our rideshare accident attorneys today for a free consultation.

Accidents in Rideshares: Is Uber or Lyft Safer? (2024)

FAQs

Accidents in Rideshares: Is Uber or Lyft Safer? ›

GPS Tracking: Uber and Lyft both use GPS tracking to monitor rides in real-time, enhancing safety and transparency. Emergency Button/ 911 in App: Both platforms have an in-app emergency button to contact local law enforcement and emergency services instantly if they feel unsafe.

Which one is safer, Uber or Lyft? ›

Both Uber and Lyft have had their share of reported incidents—Uber alone faced nearly 6,000 reports of sexual assault over a two-year span while Lyft revealed more than 4,000 assaults between 2017 and 2024.

What app is safer, Uber or Lyft? ›

In 2019 and 2020, Uber had a lower motor vehicle fatality rate but a higher physical assault rate compared to Lyft. Both companies, however, ensure that over 99.99% of rides occur without any safety issues.

How do I stay safe with Uber or Lyft? ›

Here are 8 essential safety tips to empower rideshare users, so you can feel protected throughout your journey.
  1. Verify Your Ride. ...
  2. Share Your Trip Details with Someone You Trust. ...
  3. Ride in the Back Seat. ...
  4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings. ...
  5. Don't Share Personal Information. ...
  6. Trust Your Instincts. ...
  7. Call for Help.
Apr 4, 2024

Are taxi drivers safer than Uber? ›

Choosing a taxi over a rideshare service can offer several benefits, particularly in terms of safety and reliability. Monitoring and Maintenance: Taxi companies typically employ full-time drivers, subject to ongoing supervision.

Which ride service is safest? ›

Both Uber and Lyft have similar fatality rates which are better than the population as a whole. They also have similar passenger safety policies and app features.

Is Uber or Lyft safer for female riders? ›

Ridesharing comes with risks like sexual assault, car crashes, traffic fatalities, and physical assault. In the most recent data, Uber had lower rates in all categories when compared to Lyft, except for physical assault. Overall, in 2019 and 2020, Uber's safety incident rate was 46 percent lower than Lyft's.

Can you request a female Lyft driver? ›

When turned on, Women+ Connect will allow you to be matched with more women and nonbinary drivers. Who has access to Women+ Connect? Women+ Connect is currently only available to women and nonbinary riders.

Why should I choose Lyft over Uber? ›

Pros and Cons of Lyft and Uber

There are some key differences between Uber and Lyft. Research shows Uber can be less expensive than Lyft in most of the country. Uber has better pricing in 33 states while Lyft is more affordable in western and northeastern states, particularly New York.

Has Uber gotten safer? ›

As our report shows, Uber received 3,824 reports across the five most severe categories of sexual assault and misconduct. Compared to the first Safety Report, which covered 2017 and 2018, the rate of sexual assault reported on the Uber app decreased by 38%.

Where is the safest place to sit in an Uber? ›

Ride in the backseat

Sitting in the back seat of an Uber — especially if you're alone — allows you to safely exit using either of the doors if you're being attacked or you are in danger. Doing this also gives you more personal space and ensures that the driver can't see your phone screen.

Is Uber or Lyft safe at night? ›

Using Uber or Lyft for rides at night can be safe, but it's important to take precautions. Always ensure you're using the official app, verify the driver's identity before getting in the car, and share your trip details with someone you trust.

How do I know if an Uber is safe? ›

Uber safety tips
  1. Request your ride inside. ...
  2. Check Your Ride. ...
  3. Have the driver confirm your name. ...
  4. Be a back-seat rider. ...
  5. Always wear your seat belt. ...
  6. Share your trip details with loved ones. ...
  7. Protect your personal information. ...
  8. Follow your intuition.

Can I request a female driver with Uber? ›

To keep from taking chances with Uber and Lyft, which do not allow passengers to choose their driver's gender, female passengers may prefer to hail a ride from companies that only work with female drivers.

Do I sit in front or back of Lyft? ›

In the back seat, on the passenger side. If you're the only passenger, the back seat on the passenger side is best. You have access to both doors if needed. Plus, you really shouldn't sit directly behind the driver in an empty car.

Is taking an Uber alone safe? ›

Whenever possible, sit in the back seat, especially if you're riding alone. This helps ensure that you can safely exit on either side of the vehicle to avoid moving traffic, and it gives you and your driver some personal space.

Why is Lyft better than Uber? ›

Pros and Cons of Lyft and Uber

Uber has better pricing in 33 states while Lyft is more affordable in western and northeastern states, particularly New York. 45 Also, Uber can be used around the world, whereas Lyft is only available in the U.S. and Canada.

What are the risks of Uber and Lyft? ›

Understanding the Risks

From car collisions to assaults and scams, passengers can find themselves in vulnerable situations when they enter a rideshare vehicle. According to the most recent U.S. Safety Report published by Uber (2019-2020), incidents of crashes, sexual assault and misconduct remain a prevalent concern.

Are Lyft rides safe? ›

Whether you're in the driver's seat, in the back seat, or on a bike seat, we'll always treat you with respect and look out for your safety. We do this by maintaining high standards, which start before your very first ride. Our proactive safety measures are always on.

What type of Uber is the safest? ›

Traditional Uber also tends to be the safest option because of the app's built-in safety features and also because the company does background checks on its drives. Although there are a number of competitors out there, they may not all have the safety features and driver screening that Uber offers.

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