Research done by WPVI news in Philadelphia early 2017 brings to light concerns that those that use ride share apps and taxis might want to think twice (or at least do a quick inspection) before getting into vehicles they aren’t familiar with.
The news organization found that 1 in 4 taxis and 1 in 5 Uber vehicles were on the road with an active recall. Recalls are issued when a manufacturer finds a known safety issue in one of their cars. These safety issues can involve , transmission issues, faulty window controls, faulty seat belts and potentially deadly airbag defects.
Manufacturers are required to fix recalled defects for free, but it’s up to the car’s owner to schedule the repair. A simple check of a VIN number or license plate can pull up open recalls.
While Taxi Unions & Uber “encourage” drivers to maintain their vehicles and take care of recalls, the responsibility ultimately lies with the owner of the vehicle.
In addition to safety recalls that are not addressed, have you looked at the tires on your latest ride share vehicle? Vehicle maintenance is an expense that ride share drivers and taxi companies may be challenged with because their entire business model is based on keeping prices as low as possible.
These safety recalls don’t seem important, until not taking care of one results in death or injury. For example, one of the most common recalls in taxis was for a a defective steering column that causes drivers to lose control of the vehicle. A ride share driver was driving a vehicle that had been recalled because it would simply quit running! Either one of these unresolved issues is a life or death problem if it happens when you are in the car!
In contrast, companies like ours understand that your safety and comfort are our first priority. Yes, we offer an “app” for your convenience but we also invest in the maintenance of our vehicles.
Get the app or give us a call and experience the difference for yourself!
