Rideshare services are important because they help drivers make money and make it easy for people to get around. The way these platforms let drivers choose their hours is incredible, but it might also make them work way too much. Lots of drivers really push hard to make money, and that makes them extremely fatigued and more likely to get worn out. Being extremely fatigued while driving can be very dangerous.
If a rideshare driver is very tired, they might have a way higher chance of getting into an accident because they can’t pay attention. Being fatigued is just as bad as driving while drunk because it can make you slow to react and mess with your thinking, which can lead to bad choices.
If someone gets hurt in an accident, victims should get help from rideshare accident attorneys to figure out who’s responsible and get the money they deserve.
This article discusses the connection between fatigue and rideshare accidents.
Why Rideshare Drivers Are at High Risk of Fatigue
When you have a regular job, you have to work at certain times, but with this driving job, you can choose when to work. But sometimes, drivers might feel like they have to work extra long to make more money, which is kind of stressful. Lots of drivers work for different ridesharing companies, so they end up spending more time on the road.
- Some drivers keep going even when they’re very tired because they really need the money from ridesharing.
- Irregular work hours can disrupt their sleep, making it hard to get good rest.
- Night shifts make you very tired because your body usually wants to sleep at that time.
The Dangers of Fatigued Driving
Similar to alcohol impairment, fatigue reduces driving ability. A too-weary driver may find it difficult to concentrate, react slower, and misjudge distances. This might cause major accidents, harming other road users as well as passengers.
- Drivers who are tired could stray into other lanes or overlook traffic lights.
- Slower reaction times can complicate the avoidance of unexpected obstacles.
- Extreme tiredness can cause a driver to nod off behind the wheel, causing catastrophic crashes.
Signs That a Rideshare Driver May Be Fatigued
Passengers should stay vigilant and watch out for signs that a driver could be too fatigued to drive safely. If you believe your rideshare driver seems tired, it’s advisable to speak up and ask for a break or maybe call off the ride.
- Yawning often and struggling to keep their eyes awake.
- Wandering between lanes or suddenly braking without thinking.
- Sluggish responses and difficulty maintaining a conversation.
How Rideshare Companies Address Fatigue
Although their procedures to address driver tiredness vary, Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies have them in place. These measures help, but they might not completely stop drivers from overworking.
- Uber allows drivers to work 12-hour shifts; before they can start again, they must take a six-hour rest.
- Lyft sets a 14-hour limit before a driver has to rest for at least six hours.
These limits might not prevent drivers from working for several companies or picking up extra employment.
Preventing Fatigue-Related Rideshare Accidents
Drivers and passengers alike can help to reduce their chances of fatigue-related accidents. Awareness and responsible decision-making play key roles in making rideshare travel safer.
- Drivers should give rest a priority and steer clear of working too lengthy shifts.
- Any signs of unsafe driving conduct should be reported to rideshare firms by passengers.
- Rideshare platforms should enhance monitoring systems to help track driver fatigue.
