The increase in rideshare services in Atlanta and across Georgia has been beneficial in some ways, expanding access to transportation for many people throughout the state. However, despite the advantages, there are still concerns involving safety, specifically, the potential for accidents and the complicated method for determining who to seek damages from after an accident.
Rideshare Accident Statistics and Facts
Many people use ridesharing after they’ve consumed alcohol, and these services are beneficial for helping adults avoid the dangers of drunk driving. In fact, ridesharing has contributed to a 6.1% decrease in alcohol-related traffic deaths. Hailing a ride with services like Lyft and Uber has also led to an overall reduction of 4% in traffic deaths.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Georgia is 0.08%, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that a BAC as low as 0.02% can cause:
- Decrease in visual functioning
- Difficulty with multitasking
Ridesharing has created an alternative method of transportation for people who responsibly decide they shouldn’t drive after drinking.
The statistics of ridesharing are not all positive, though. The National Bureau of Economic Research has linked rideshare services with a 3% annual increase in car accident deaths.
Regardless of what the rideshare accident statistics say, a car accident can be devastating to everyone involved. An Uber car accident lawyer will have the unique experience you need to help you navigate your injury claim.
Common Injuries Caused by Rideshare Accidents
From minor soreness or light bruising to catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries, car accidents can cause harm that spans across the entire spectrum. While nearly every type of injury is possible after a rideshare accident, there are some that occur more frequently.
Neck Injuries
Whiplash is commonly associated with car accidents. It is a neck injury that occurs when the head experiences forceful and sudden changes in movement that cause damage to soft tissue. Symptoms include:
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Dizziness
- Shoulder pain
- Numbness or pain in your arm or hand
- Sleeplessness
- Difficulty turning your head
- Irritability
Spine and Back Injuries
Back injuries like herniated disks, fractures, and sprains are also common in car accidents, including rideshare crashes. Depending on the severity of your back injury, you may be facing a long road to recovery. Limited mobility, pain, and weakness are symptoms frequently caused by back and spine injuries.
Brain and Head Injuries
Head injuries can range from a mild concussion to a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and these types of injuries frequently occur in car accidents. Despite the range of severity, even a mild head injury can cause significant health concerns. If you experience a brain injury, your symptoms may include:
- Memory loss
- Headaches
- Emotional changes
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
Broken Bones
As with most other injuries, the severity of fractures ranges considerably and depends on the type and location of the break. Not only can fractures cause intense pain, swelling, and movement difficulty, but the complications of broken bones could include severe issues such as bone infections and acute compartment syndrome.
Contact an Atlanta Uber Car Accident Lawyer
Rideshare accident statistics may not have any impact on you personally or how you recover from your injuries, but having a trusted car accident attorney on your side will positively affect your case.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, navigating the complex legal landscape can be overwhelming. The attorneys at Flanagan Law are proud to deliver compassionate counsel and dedicated representation to our injured clients. When you are ready to discuss your rideshare accident case, contact us to schedule a free consultation.
