PC Professor study finds Uber cuts down on crime

June 8, 2016 2:03 pm

By Kainani Stevens

kstevens@abc6.com

In a simple swipe, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft can help people get to and from where they need to go.

And now, a new study suggests these ride-sharing services are keeping everybody safer.

"When Uber enter an area we can see anywhere from a 13-30% decline in arrests for assaults, DUIs, and drunkenness."

Dr. Angela Dills, an economics professor at Providence College, conducted the study to investigate recently public concerns about rider safety and unregulated drivers.

The study compared data from over 150 cities over a three year period, focusing on how Uber coming to a community affects that area’s crime rate.

"A lot of these incidents are alcohol-related so it’s certainly plausible to think people are out drinking, leaving bars, getting home earlier and not hanging out so they are not getting into fights and they’re not driving drunk."

In conclusion, the study found that safety concerns as a whole surrounding Uber were unwarranted, and in fact, Uber communities see a significant decline in deadly crashes, DUIs, and assaults.

"I take it as a win for public safety. It’s making life safer for everyone by providing additional ride options for people that need a way home."