Ride Sharing Does Not Eliminate All Risk

Ride sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are popular choices for people looking to get home after a late night out, particularly after a few drinks have been enjoyed. This is a responsible thing to do, recognizing that it is not safe to drive after drinking and hiring someone else to do it for you. Unfortunately, just because you do the right thing, there is no guarantee that others will.

On Sunday, February 4th, 2018, 26-year-old Edwin Jackson was out with friends and decided to hire a ride share to get him home. Mr. Jackson, a professional football player for the Indianapolis Colts, became ill on the car ride home. The driver politely pulled over to the shoulder of the road to allow Mr. Jackson a few moments for his stomach to calm down.

While pulled over, the car carrying Mr. Jackson was struck by a pickup truck that veered from its lane, causing the ride share to spin and launching Mr. Jackson into the center of the highway where he was struck and killed by another car. The driver of the pickup truck was intoxicated.

Ride sharing programs are significantly safer than drinking and driving, but during certain times of night, such as right after the bars close, it is highly likely passengers in Ubers and Lyfts are still sharing the road with drunk drivers. Mr. Jackson is the most recent testament to the fact that too many people still drive while under the influence.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed by a drunk driver, it is important to hold that person responsible for their actions. Society must continue to make it clear to people that it is not safe to drink and drive. There are safer options, such as taxis and ride shares, available to anyone who has had a few drinks. Please contact an experienced attorney to help you pursue your case.