The school year is here, and so are all the activities that come with it, from early morning meetings to after-school sports practices. When you add together all the schedules in your home, it can seem like too much to manage.
A rideshare service for kids in Houston called HopSkipDrive is providing a new option for busy families.
As a parent, your first question is likely: Is it safe?
What you should know about HopSkipDrive
HopSkipDrive is not new–just new to Texas. The company is currently functioning in four other states, as well as Washington D.C.
HopSkipDrive partners with local schools, and children are digitally verified when they arrive at their destination.
On its website, HopSkipDrive reports serving more than 650,000 students over the age of six for a total of more than four million miles. The company partners with more than 6,000 schools.
Their 15-point driver certification process includes driver requirements such as working with children for at least five years, passing several rigorous background checks, passing a 19-point vehicle inspection by a certified mechanic and attending an in-person meeting and driver orientation.
Despite all the precautions and regulations in place, we all know that accidents happen. And whether you decide to use this rideshare service or not, you need to be prepared in case of emergency.
What is the likelihood of being involved in an accident in Houston?
No matter who is driving, accidents are always a possibility–especially in Houston. According to a 16-year analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, accidents are extremely common in Houston. It is actually the deadliest major metro area in the nation for drivers and passengers. During an average week, there are 11 fatal wrecks and 12 deaths due to car accidents.
This is enough to give anyone pause when taking children on the road–or trusting someone else with their care. Whether that person be a rideshare driver or a teenaged son or daughter, keep in mind the risks as well as the benefit of saving time.
What should you do if your children are involved in an accident?
Once your children have received the immediate medical attention they need, consider speaking to an experienced personal injury attorney. If possible, document everything you can after the accident.
A personal injury suit will be particularly important if anyone in your family is in a rideshare accident. Talk to a lawyer from Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner in Houston by calling (713) 222-7211.