Injured in an Accident While Riding in an Uber or Lyft?
Being involved in a rideshare accident is a traumatic experience that can leave you injured, confused, and uncertain about what steps to take next. It’s crucial to seek legal assistance from a rideshare accident lawyer who specializes in cases involving Uber and Lyft. These professionals are well-versed in the intricacies of rideshare accidents and can provide invaluable support throughout your claim process.
How a Lyft and Uber Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you’re injured in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft, a rideshare accident lawyer can help you in the following ways:
1. Meticulously Investigate Your Case
A Lyft and Uber accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of your accident. They will gather all relevant evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage.
2. Help You Collect Compelling Evidence
Compelling evidence is crucial in a personal injury claim. Rideshare accident lawyers will assist you in gathering medical records, photographs of the accident scene, and any other documentation necessary to establish liability. This evidence can help prove the extent of your car accident injuries and the impact on your life. An experienced rideshare accident attorney will also help you calculate the value of your damages.
3. Gather Expert Witness Testimonies
Experienced rideshare accident attorneys have access to a network of expert witnesses. This can include accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, mental health experts, and engineers. The testimonies these professionals provide can help strengthen your case significantly. Their expert opinions can offer a comprehensive view of the accident’s circumstances and your resulting injuries.
4. Navigate the Complex Claims Process
Lyft and Uber accident lawyers possess in-depth knowledge of the specific laws and regulations governing Uber and Lyft accidents. The rideshare accident claims process can be complex because it involves multiple parties and insurance companies.
An experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorney can guide you through the intricacies of filing a claim against the rideshare company, the driver, and relevant insurance companies.
5. Negotiate with the Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging and their primary goal is often to minimize payouts. Rideshare accident lawyers are skilled negotiators who advocate on your behalf during discussions with insurance providers.
They leverage their expertise to counter insurance adjusters’ tactics, ensuring you receive a fair settlement that adequately covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. By having a seasoned negotiator in your corner, you increase your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
6. Ensure All Paperwork is Error-Free and Submitted on Time
The legal process involves a significant amount of paperwork, including filing deadlines and specific documentation requirements. An error or missed deadline could jeopardize your rideshare accident claim.
Lyft and Uber accident lawyers meticulously prepare and review all necessary documents, ensuring they are accurate and in compliance with legal requirements. By handling the paperwork efficiently and submitting it on time, they prevent unnecessary delays and setbacks in your case.
7. Advocate for You in Court
If your case proceeds to court, having a skilled rideshare accident lawyer advocating for you is invaluable. A Lyft and Uber accident attorney will present your case persuasively before the judge and jury.
Their expertise in courtroom procedures, coupled with their knowledge of rideshare accident laws, strengthens your position during the trial. With a dedicated lawyer fighting for your rights, you can face legal proceedings with confidence, knowing that your interests are being vigorously defended.
8. Recover the Compensation You Deserve
Whether through negotiations or in court, a rideshare accident lawyer’s expertise and dedication are geared toward securing a favorable outcome for you. This compensation can cover a wide range of damages, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. A Lyft and Uber accident lawyer will fight to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation available.
What Makes a Rideshare Accident Different Than a Regular Car Accident?
Rideshare accidents differ significantly from regular car accidents due to the involvement of companies like Uber and Lyft. Understanding these differences is crucial in comprehending the unique challenges these types of car accident cases present:
Complex Liability
Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be complex. It depends on various factors such as the Uber or Lyft driver’s status on the rideshare app and whether they were actively transporting a passenger.
Ridesharing companies may be held accountable for accidents caused by their rideshare drivers. However, there are different factors to consider. Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees. The extent of the rideshare companies’ liability depends on factors like whether the Uber or Lyft driver was “active” on the app during the accident.
Insurance Issues
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, including the driver’s personal insurance company, the rideshare company’s insurance, and potentially a third-party driver’s insurance. Coordinating between these policies requires expertise and knowledge.
Is Lyft or Uber Liable for Damages in a Rideshare Car Accident?
Both Uber and Lyft carry a $1 million dollar insurance policy to help cover their drivers in the event of an accident. However, there are different rules that apply to rideshare drivers, their passengers, and third parties.
Insurance Requirements For Rideshare Services
Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that cover their drivers and passengers, but these policies vary based on the driver’s activity on the app.
The Rideshare App is Off or The Driver Isn’t Logged In
If the Lyft or Uber driver did not have the rideshare app on at the time of the auto accident, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy applies. Rideshare companies don’t provide coverage during this period.
The App is On and The Rideshare Driver is on Standby
If the rideshare driver’s app is online, but they are waiting on standby to pick up a rider, the rideshare company may provide coverage. The rideshare company provides limited liability coverage if the driver’s auto insurance doesn’t apply or is insufficient.
If the rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy doesn’t all the losses, Uber provides liability insurance up to $25,000 per accident for property damage, $50,000 per person for bodily injury, and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury.
The App is On and The Rideshare Driver is Picking Up or Transporting a Passenger
At this stage, the rideshare company’s insurance provides the most extensive insurance coverage, including liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. During this period, both Uber and Lyft provide $1 million dollar insurance coverage.
Damages You Can Recover From an Uber or Lyft Accident
Understanding the types of damages you can recover is crucial for building a strong case:
Economic Damages – These include quantifiable financial losses such as medical expenses, ongoing medical treatment, lost wages, property damage, and rehabilitation costs.
Non-Economic Damages – These are intangible losses that are challenging to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive Damages – In some cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Questions To Ask A Rideshare Accident Lawyer
When consulting with a rideshare accident lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
- How long have you been handling rideshare accident cases, specifically those involving Uber and Lyft?
- What is your success rate in securing favorable outcomes for clients in similar cases?
- Do you have access to accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other resources necessary for building a robust case?
- How will you keep me informed about the progress of my case? What is your preferred mode of communication?
- What is your fee structure? Do you work on a contingency basis?
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Rideshare Accident Attorney?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you won’t pay any upfront fees for their legal services. Typically, you will pay the lawyer a fixed percentage if they win your case. Contingency fees can range between 30% and 40% of the settlement. If you work with a personal injury lawyer on a contingency fee basis and you don’t win your case, you won’t have to pay lawyer fees.
Consult with an Experienced Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer
If you sustained serious injuries in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, consulting with an experienced Uber and Lyft accident lawyer is crucial. Rideshare accident lawyers will fight to recover fair compensation for your injuries and losses and their expertise can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
An experienced personal injury attorney will investigate your case meticulously, advocate for you in court, and help you navigate the complexities of rideshare accident claims. Call our California law office today to schedule a free consultation.
