Uber released its first safety report, revealing a staggering number of serious and fatal incidents involving Uber drivers and passengers in 2018.
Overall, there were nine murders, 58 people killed in traffic accidents, and 3,045 victims of sexual assault who were either Uber riders or drivers in 2018. In 92 percent of the rape cases, Uber said, drivers were the victims.
In 2017, there were 49 Uber-related traffic fatalities over 8.2 billion miles traveled. In 2018, there were 58 over 1.3 billion miles traveled, or 0.57 per 100 million miles. While the overall number of fatal crashes involving Uber cars is low compared to the national average (1.1 per 100 million miles), the high number of incidents overall indicates that the risks should not be ignored.
After releasing the report, the ride-share company defended its safety track record, saying that the reported incidents reflect the world in which we live, not anything that is caused specifically by Uber. Despite the company’s claim, Uber’s chief legal officer, Tony West, admitted that the report makes for a tough reading.
“The numbers are jarring and hard to digest,” he said in an interview. “What it says is that Uber is a reflection of the society it serves.”
Uber Focuses On Safety, But Riders Must Beware Of Dangers
The most popular ride-share firm globally has done a lot to boost safety.
Recently, Uber stepped up its checks on drivers, making sure the firm is well aware of the driver’s criminal and driving histories. This revamping of their system led to the deactivation of 40,000 drivers in the United States alone who had failed the firm’s new checks.
In addition, the firm has also been hiring more members of its safety team since 2017. Within a year, Uber should also have a support hotline set up, partnering with the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network to fight sexual assault.
Despite the company’s efforts, the accident risk remains a concern for riders who use rideshare apps regularly.
Recently, Bernard Law Group attorney Viivi M. Vanderslice talked to The Seattle Times about Uber and Lyft accidents attorney, giving readers a better idea of what they should do after an accident.
To read her tips on how you should proceed to have your rights upheld after an Uber crash, follow this link.
