Millions of people use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. As a result, the vehicles used for these services experience intense use as well as increased wear and tear. This could ultimately lead to increased dangers and accidents on the road. What should you know about the risks that this high mileage can pose?
Mileage adds up quickly for rideshare drivers.
Rideshare drivers add 140 to 200 miles to their vehicle’s mileage per day. This means that their car travels four or more times the average daily mileage. This intense use also means that they are putting significantly more wear and tear on the vehicle’s systems.
How can this high mileage impact a driver’s vehicle?
All vehicle systems need regular maintenance to remain safe. Unfortunately, drivers and passengers may not be aware of the gradual wear on a vehicle as the miles add up. This can lead a variety of systems to fail, including:
- Brake systems: Frequent stopping and starting, which is common in urban environments where ride-sharing is popular, leads to quicker degradation of brake pads and rotors. Worn brakes can reduce the effectiveness of stopping, particularly critical in emergency situations, potentially leading to accidents.
- Tires: Especially in cities with poor road conditions, tires undergo constant stress. While an average tire may last three to five years, a rideshare driver could wear out their tires much faster. Worn tires significantly reduce vehicle handling and increase the likelihood of tire failure, tripling the risk of an accident.
- Suspension systems: The suspension system suffers due to repetitive travel over potholes and uneven road surfaces, common in many urban settings. Deterioration in suspension components can affect the stability and comfort of the vehicle, impacting the driver’s ability to control the vehicle effectively.
- Engine and transmission: High mileage can lead to increased engine and transmission issues, which not only require costly repairs but also can cause unexpected breakdowns that might lead to dangerous situations on busy roads.
The degradation of these critical vehicle components doesn’t just lead to more frequent and expensive maintenance. The failure of any of these key systems during a ride can lead to serious accidents.
Drivers sharing the road with Uber, Lyft and other rideshare app drivers should be aware of the risks that the wear and tear on their vehicles can create. Remaining aware of these risks and knowing your rights if an accident involving a rideshare driver occurs can help you protect yourself.