According to research conducted at Temple University, markets in which the ride-sharing service Uber is allowed to compete see lower rates of DUI fatalities. Specifically, markets served by Uber X in California between 2009 and 2014 saw a 3.6 to 5.6 percent reduction in DUI deaths. Assuming a national average of 13,000 deaths a year attributable to drunk driving, 500 lives could be saved if Uber was implemented throughout the country.
These findings go against public policy that favors commercial taxis as the main method of public transportation. They also seemingly go against the narrative used by politicians that Uber drivers do not operate their vehicles in a safe manner. Research indicates that in addition to reducing the number of accidents caused by drunk drivers, there is no increase in accidents by sober Uber drivers. Despite similar claims from ride-sharing services such as Uber in the past, this research is the first to independently confirm the safety of such services.
However, by limiting the competition to these taxi companies, there may not be enough supply to meet the demand for transportation at night. Therefore, drivers who otherwise would get a taxi or another ride home are in many cases forced to drive while under the influence of alcohol.
Those who have been injured in a drunk driving accident caused by an impaired motorist will often be forced to incur high medical expense. Their financial situations are often made even worse by not being able to work for a prolonged period. A person in this situation may want to speak with an attorney regarding the advisability of filing a personal injury lawsuit that would seek damages from the negligent driver.