Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, have grown significantly over time, providing millions of people with convenient, on-demand transportation. This contributes to a higher volume of Uber or Lyft vehicles on the road, ultimately increasing the likelihood of collisions, leaving accident victims with injuries, property damage, and complicated insurance-related issues.
In the aftermath of an Uber or Lyft accident, managing claims and determining liability can be difficult. This is where experienced rideshare accident attorneys play an important role and at West Coast Trial Lawyers, our legal team is readily available to guide affected individuals through the legal process, help document injuries, communicate with insurers, and seek full compensation for losses incurred, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
On top of it all, our law firm operates under a contingency-fee basis, meaning you are not required to pay anything upfront and we will only be compensated if we successfully recover damages on your behalf.ย
To schedule a FREE, no obligation consultation, we welcome you to reach out to us by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our quick online contact form.
What Sets WCTL Apart From Others
Rideshare accidents can involve complicated liability issues and multiple insurance policies and at West Coast Trial Lawyers, our legal team will take an effective approach to investigate your Uber and Lyft accident claim. With a multistate presence in the personal injury space, our firm is dedicated to provide top-tier Harvard level legal representation to clients who need a good lawyer when they need it the most.ย
When you hire us for your Uber and Lyft accident case, we will go beyond the basics of what an attorney does. We will help collect evidence, review rideshare records, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
On top of it all,ย we work with local providers to help injured individuals recover faster and make sure they are treated right. Working with an experienced rideshare accident attorney can sometimes be hard, but it doesn’t have to be when you means having an advocate who understands the challenges of such cases and is prepared to guide you through the legal process.
How Does Rideshare Work?
Rideshare accidents are different from a regular car accident since multiple insurance policies may apply. When a driver is using a rideshare app, the company will provide adequate insurance coverage during specific periods, like when the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or actively transporting one. This coverage may consist of higher liability limits than what drivers carry during personal driving.
A regular car accident usually involves the driver’s personal auto insurance policies. When it comes to rideshare cases, determining which policy applies will revolve around whether the vehicle operator was online and what stage of the ride they were in at the time of impact.
Is Lyft or Uber Safer for Riders?
Both Uber and Lyft shared public transparency reports that go over serious safety incidents that have occurred on their platforms. The data suggests that neither service is significantly safer than the other since both companies have documented low incident rates compared to the total number of trips completed.ย
According to Uberโs safety report, covering 2021-2022, the company had a total of 153 motor vehicle deaths. This is essentially 0.87 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, which is still considered lower than the U.S. national average for traffic-related deaths. Lyftโs safety transparency report, from 2020-2022, recorded 111 traffic fatalities connected to rides on its platform, with a nearly similar fatality rate per miles traveled.
Both rideshare companies also report cases involving violent crimes. Uber had 36 fatal physical assaults and 2,717 incidents involving the most serious categories of sexual assault and misconduct. Lyft, on the other hand, had 23 fatal physical assaults and 2,651 sexual assault cases. Despite the numbers provided, these circumstances are relatively rare when compared to the number of rides completed each year.ย
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident?
After a rideshare accident, taking the follow steps can help protect your health and legal rights:
- Move to safety, if possible. Removing yourself away from traffic or other hazards will prevent you from experiencing additional harm.
- Contact local authorities. Officers can document the accident scene, gather witness statements, and conduct an official police report that may later help determine what actually happened.
- Get medical treatment. After the rideshare accident, it is important to get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable and can worsen overtime if left uncared for. Medical records will help document bodily injury caused by the incident.
- Gather evidence. If it is safe to do so, try to gather as much evidence as you can, like the rideshare driver’s name, contact details, license number, license plate number, and insurance information. You should also take photographs or video footage of your injury, the vehicles involved, and the surrounding conditions. Witness statements are also important to include in your Uber or Lyft accident claim as this can help strengthen your case.
- Consult with an Uber or Lyft accident attorney. If you endured serious injuries in a rideshare accident, reaching out to a lawyer will help you understand the legal options you have available. They will review your Uber and Lyft accident claim, explain how rideshare coverage works, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and help you seek compensation for any losses you incurred.
Common Injuries in an Uber or Lyft Accident
Accidents involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle can result in various types of injuries, similar to those that appear after motor vehicle collisions. Below are some common forms of bodily harm that may occur:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Soft tissue damage
- Internal injuries
Even if pain feels minor at first, you should still get yourself evaluated to identify potential complications and start appropriate treatment to prevent your condition from progressively worsening.
Who Is Liable for Your Injuries in a Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability after a rideshare accident can be more complicated compared to a typical care accident since multiple parties will be involved. The rideshare driver may be held liable if their negligence contributed to the incident. But, other drivers on the road may be responsible depending on how the accident happened.
For Lyft or Uber accident victims, liability can also depend on whether the rideshare driver was online and actively using the app at the time of impact. If the driver was in the process of transporting a passenger or was on the way to pick someone up, the rideshare company’s insurance policy will be effective.
Since these types of cases can involve several insurance policies and legal considerations, many personal injury lawyers will review the details of the accident to determine accountability. They can help accident victims understand their rights and look into options for seeking compensation for losses sustained.
Can You Sue Uber for an Accidentโ?
When it comes to rideshare accidents, liability will hover around the Uber driver rather than the company itself. Similar to other motorists on the road, rideshare drivers can be held accountable if their negligent or reckless behavior caused an accident. However, whether a company can be involved will depend on specific factors.
In certain cases, compensation may come through Uber’s insurance coverage, which will apply when the driver is online or actively transporting riders. This coverage will help compensate for injuries and damages arising from the incident. Under some circumstances, Uber itself could potentially face liability if the crash was connected to company-related negligent practices. For instance:
- Negligent hiring practices
- Poor oversight of drivers
- Inadequate safety training
- Failure to take action on complaints
Since rideshare accidents claims often raise complicated liability questions and may involve several parties, consulting an experienced Uber accident lawyer can help you explore your legal options. An attorney can review the details of the case and identify the best approach for seeking compensation.
Can You Sue Lyft for an Accident?
It is possible to hold Lyft accountable after an accident, but who is liable depends on the circumstances. Usually, the driver is at fault if their actions caused the crash. In some cases, Lyft could share responsibility, particularly if the company neglected driver screening or encouraged unsafe driving practices.
Lyft carries insurance coverage that is applicable when a driver is logged into the app or transporting a passenger to their inputted destination. This coverage can help cover injuries, property damages, and other types of losses stemming from the collision.
Since rideshare cases involve multiple parties and insurance policies, speaking with an experienced Lyft accident lawyer can help clarify the options you have available. They will review the situation, determine liability, and guide you in seeking compensation for the losses you suffered.
What Does Rideshare Insurance Cover?
Rideshare insurance provides extra protection for vehicle occupants involved in a collision. Uber and Lyft coverage will depend on whether the driver was offline, online but en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger.
Offline
When offline, rideshare policies will not apply. At this stage, the driver’s personal insurance policy will cover you, including liability or damage.
En Route to Pick Up a Passenger
Once the driver has accepted a ride request, the rideshare company’s commercial auto insurance will take into effect. This includes:
- Property damage liability coverage and bodily injury liability to others
- In some states, additional protection, like uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage are maintained for you and your rides (depending on local requirements)
Passenger on Board
Once you have accepted a ride request and are headed to pick up a rider or carrying one, Lyft and Uber’s commercial auto insurance provides the following coverage:
- At least $1,000,000 total liability for injuries and property damage to riders and other parties
- Collision coverage for your vehicle (up to its actual cash value with a deductible) if your personal auto insurance policy includes collision and comprehensive coverage
- Optional protections in some states for injuries caused by uninsured or underinsured motorists
The Importance of Finding a Local Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Hiring a local rideshare accident lawyer offers several key advantages for your Uber or Lyft case. Lawyers in your area know local laws, regulations, and court procedures, giving them insight into challenges your case may face. Being nearby also makes scheduling meetings easier, lessens travel time, and allows for better communication, helping you stay informed all throughout the legal process.
Here are some other benefits you can get of working with a local rideshare accident lawyer:
- In-depth knowledge of local laws: Each state has its own nuances when it comes to handling Uber and Lyft accidents, from traffic patterns, court procedures, to even determining liability.
- Familiarity with local courts and judges: A local attorney knows the preferences and tendencies of judges and other legal professionals in the area.
- Accessibility and personalized service: Meeting your attorney in person can provide peace of mind and foster clear communication throughout the process.
If you are looking for an experienced local Uber and Lyft accident lawyer, we proudly serve clients in the following states:
Selecting a lawyer who knows your city ensures personalized guidance and support. Rather than generic representation, work with someone who understands the specific challenges and opportunities in your local area.
How Long After an Incident Can You Make a Claim?
If you are involved in a rideshare accident, the time to take legal action depends on your stateโs statute of limitations. In many places, you typically have two to three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. Missing the deadline will bar you from seeking compensation for the damages you incurred. Since rideshare accidents involve several insurance policies, it is important to consult with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer as soon as you can. They will ensure your claim is filed in a timely manner and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Available Damages in a Rideshare Accident Case
Injuries from a rideshare accident may make you eligible for compensation, usually covering financial losses and non-economic damages:
- Economic damages: Financial losses that can be calculated, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages: Intangible losses that are difficult to measure in dollars, but reflects the personal impact of the collision, including emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering.
To get an idea of what you could be awarded, you can access our personal injury settlement calculator. This will estimate the value of your claim based on the amount of damages you endured.
West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help
If you have sustained injuries as a result of someoneโs negligence, you have the right to hold them responsible for your losses. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we are readily available to assist. We can evaluate your case, identify the at fault party, and pursue legal action on your behalf to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
With over $1.7 billion of financial compensation recovered, our knowledgeable team has a proven track record of securing compensation and representing our clients best interest. Whether you were hurt in a rideshare accident as a passenger or as a driver, we will work tirelessly and advocate on your behalf to get you satisfactory results.
To schedule a FREE consultation with a Lyft or Uber accident attorney, you can reach out to us by calling (213) 927-3700 or filling out our easy online contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uber and Lyft Accidents
How Is Compensation Calculated in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Every Uber or Lyft accident case is different, and settlement amounts depend on several factors, including the ones listed below:
- The severity of your injury
- Degree of fault
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
Hiring an experienced rideshare accident lawyer can help ensure all eligible damages are accurately included.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Rideshare Accident?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to pursue legal action. But, having legal representation can make the legal process much easier and minimize stress, while heightening your chances of acquiring a fair settlement. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our team will take care of the following tasks to support your case:
- Assessing your case
- Determining liability
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Maximizing compensation
- Representing you in court
Having an experienced lawyer can ensure your personal injury lawsuit is managed properly and that all compensation is pursued.
Are Lyft and Uber the Same Company?
Uber and Lyft are independent rideshare companies. Uber, founded in 2009, is available worldwide, providing transportation, food delivery, and freight services. Lyft, founded in 2012, serves the U.S. and Canada, focusing on passenger rideshare and scooter or bike rentals. Although their services are similar, the two companies differ in policies, insurance coverage, and pricing.
Can You Still Drive for Uber After an Accident?
You can still continue to drive for Uber after an accident. However, it will depend on the factors involved. First and foremost, your vehicle will have to meet Uber’s safety standards. If the accident resulted in significant damage, repairs may be required before you head back to the platform.
Furthermore, the rideshare company looks into your driving record after an accident. Minor cases usually will not affect your eligibility to maintain your status as an Uber driver, but serious or fatal outcomes may trigger a review of your account and driving privileges.
On top of it all, you must maintain a valid driver’s personal insurance policy, and while logged into the app, Uber’s commercial auto insurance covers rideshare trips. Any unresolved claims could affect your chances of driving until it has been fully addressed. And lastly, Uber usually requires drivers to have accidents reported, and to provide documentation before going back online.
Can You Drive Lyft and Uber at the Same Time?
You can drive for Lyft and Uber at the same time. Many rideshare drivers choose to work for both companies to earn more. But, you will need to manage each platform separately. So, you will have to log in to only one app at a time while accepting requests, and ensure you comply with each company’s policies in terms of driver eligibility, vehicle requirements, and insurance.
Does Uber Give Any Compensation if You Didn’t See a Doctor After Accident for Mental Stress and Trauma?
Uberโs claims process usually addresses documented injuries or property damage from a rideshare accident. Without medical or mental health records after the incident, proving compensation for emotional trauma can be difficult. Insurance providers often ask for supporting documentation, including:
- Therapy visits
- Psychiatric evaluations
- Prescriptions
These are all needed to support damages pertaining to the emotional or psychological injuries you suffered.
How Many People Have Died in Uber Accidents?
According to Uber’s U.S. Safety Report (2021-2022), there were 153 motor vehicle deaths in crashes that happened during trips on the platform. The rideshare company also reports this fatality rate (0.87 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled) is much lower than the national average when it comes to motor vehicle fatalities.ย
Although these cases are rare, fatalities can have devastating effects on the victimโs family. Given the circumstances, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to pursue justice and seek compensation for their losses.
Should I See a Doctor After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
It is always encouraged to see a doctor after an Uber or Lyft accident even if you feel like you did not get seriously hurt. Here’s why:
- Some injuries may not be immediately apparent: Certain injuries, such as concussions or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms the right way. For this reason, in particular, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as you can. A doctor will evaluate your condition and start you with the appropriate care to prevent your condition from worsening.
- Documentation for insurance purposes: If you plan to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit medical records may be critical. Seeking medical attention documents the injuries you sustained, supporting your claim.
Peace of mind: Even if you do not have any visible injuries, seeing a doctor can provide reassurance that you are okay. This is especially important if you have underlying health conditions that could have gotten aggravated by the incident.
What Happens if My Uber/Lyft Gets in an Accident?
If you are a passenger in an Uber/Lyft and they have gotten involved in an accident, it is best to follow the same procedures as you would for a standard car accident. In addition, it is recommended to report the accident to Uber/Lyft in the respective app to get additional support, especially if you have sustained any serious injuries.
