As a rideshare driver, you spend countless hours navigating through dense traffic to pick up and drop off riders. That puts you at higher risk when it comes to getting into a car accident on the streets of New York City.
Based on the NYPD’s yearly report, here’s a list of the top ten causes of car accidents in New York City in 2023:
1. Driver Inattention/Distraction – Mind wandering or phone use while driving. (1,975 collisions)
2. Failure to Yield Right-of-Way – Driver doesn’t stop when they should. (620 collisions)
3. Following Too Closely – Not enough stopping distance between vehicles. (528 collisions)
4. Unsafe Speed – Driving too fast for conditions or roads. (348 collisions)
5. Improper Passing or Lane Usage – Making illegal or reckless lane changes. (337 collisions)
6. Backing Unsafely – Not checking surroundings before reversing. (251 collisions)
7. Passing Too Closely – Not leaving enough space when passing. (250 collisions)
8. Traffic Control Disregarded – Ignoring signs, signals, or markings. (230 collisions)
9. Driver Inexperience – New driver unfamiliar with the road or car. (206 collisions)
10. Turning Improperly – Wrong signal, not checking blind spots, cutting off other drivers. (194 collisions)
Driving Safe on NYC Streets
For a rideshare driver, getting into an accident means extra costs, less income, and potential legal problems. Even worse, is suffering from injuries as a result of an accident. You might not be able to control how other drivers operate their vehicles, but by staying alert and following these golden rules you can reduce the risk of getting into an accident:
- Put down the phone. Keep your phone away while driving and focus on the road.
- Obey traffic laws. Always follow speed limits, respect traffic signals, and yield the right of way.
- Maintain a safe distance. Leave ample space between your car and the vehicle in front of you.
- Be predictable. Signal well in advance of turns and lane changes.
- Stay alert. Avoid driving when fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Car Accident and Injury Support from IDG Legal
If you are ever involved in a car accident, we can help. IDG Legal offers rideshare drivers access to a trusted network of lawyers who are skilled in these types of accidents, and workers’ compensation cases with The Black Car Fund.
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