Ride-Sharing Services Linked to Decreased Fatalities, DUIs
Virginia DUI Related Fatalities Down
Early data for 2015 shows a decrease in DUIs and alcohol-related fatalities in Virginia, the DMV said in a recent report. The cause? Education, enforcement – and Uber, the agency speculates. Though there’s no definitive way of knowing that ride-sharing services directly prevented drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel, experts say there’s a casual connection between the two. Data shows a four percent reduction in alcohol-related crashes and a 22 percent drop in alcohol-related fatalities.
More People Using Ride-Sharing Services
With the rising popularity of services like Lyft and Uber, getting home after a night out on the town is easier, safer and more affordable than ever. Just a tap or two on your smart phone sends a driver near you a notification of your request for a ride home. No need to worry about credit cards or cash – even your tip is included and processed all through the service’s app.
More Research Is Needed
The Virginia DMV is hardly the first organization to notice the positive impact ride-sharing services can have on communities. Uber and MADD recently teamed up for an in-depth study on the impact. Unsurprisingly, they found that requests for rides spiked at 2 A.M., when bars close. This trend repeated in every city where Uber can be found. When taxis are in high demand, many people choose to drive home regardless of how much they’ve had to drink. With Uber, much shorter wait times ensure service to a wider population of late night partiers.
As the research continues, we’ll learn more about the way ride-sharing services impact our communities. If these initial facts and figures are any indication, Uber, Lyft and other ride-sharing services show that given the opportunity to make smart, safe choices, most people will. And that’s great news.
Injured by a Drunk Driver?
Car accidents and wrecks, especially those that result in the wrongful death of an innocent victim, are horrific events – and the event is made all the more awful when it turns out that the at-fault driver was driving drunk.
Our attorneys have been helping victims injured in accidents caused by someone else’s negligence for over 28 years. We are sensitive to the need to conduct a prompt investigation, which is necessary to prevail in the case against the person responsible for your injuries. If you’d like to speak with us about your situation contact us for a free case evaluation 877-544-5323.