Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers in Ogden
Helping Ridesharing Accident Victims Recover Just Compensation
Ridesharing companies, like Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular as an alternative to taxis. However, as the popularity of these companies increases, so too does the risk of being involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft. When these accidents occur, victims have several options in seeking recovery for their damages, such as medical bills, future medical costs, lost income, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
Ridesharing accident claims are very complex, both factually and legally. If you were involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, it’s important that you reach out to an experienced attorney who can help you navigate what comes next. At Lowe Law Group, we are ready to put our years of experience, our considerable resources, and our history of success on your side.
Get in touch with us today to share your story. Call (801) 797-3444 or contact us online for a free consultation with one of our Ogden Uber accident lawyers.
Utah Rideshare Laws
Rideshare laws in Utah are designed to regulate transportation network companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft, ensuring safety, accountability, and fair practices within the industry. These laws cover various aspects, including driver requirements, vehicle standards, insurance coverage, and operational guidelines.
Driver Requirements
To operate as a rideshare driver in Utah, individuals must meet specific criteria. They must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver's license, and have undergone a criminal background check. Additionally, drivers must pass a driving history check to ensure they have a clean record. This vetting process aims to enhance passenger safety by ensuring that only qualified and responsible individuals are behind the wheel.
Vehicle Standards
Vehicles used for rideshare services in Utah must adhere to certain standards. They should be no older than 10 years, undergo regular inspections, and be free from cosmetic damage. These requirements help maintain a high quality of service and ensure that passengers are transported in safe and reliable vehicles. Moreover, vehicles must display a TNC emblem or logo while in operation, making it easy for passengers to identify their rideshare vehicle.
Insurance Coverage
Utah law mandates specific insurance requirements for rideshare services. TNCs must provide commercial insurance coverage that is in effect from the moment a driver logs into the rideshare app until they log out. This insurance must cover both the driver and passengers in case of an accident. The coverage typically includes liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, and comprehensive and collision coverage. This ensures that all parties involved in a rideshare trip are adequately protected.
Operational Guidelines
Rideshare companies in Utah must comply with operational guidelines set forth by state law. These include maintaining records of all rides and drivers, providing a secure platform for transactions, and implementing measures to ensure passenger safety, such as a rating system for both drivers and passengers. Additionally, TNCs are required to disclose fare estimates and routes to passengers before the trip begins, promoting transparency and trust in the service.
How Uber & Lyft Accident Cases Work
Accident claims involving Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing vehicles are similar to but notably different than typical car accident claims. Because Uber and Lyft drivers are not classified as employees but, rather, as independent contractors, these cases are also different from other types of commercial vehicle and truck accident claims.
Because Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, both ridesharing companies have relatively limited liability when it comes to the actions of their drivers. In other words, Uber and Lyft have set up ways to protect themselves in the event that one of their drivers causes an accident. If you are hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you can file a claim directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, if the claim is denied (which is often the case) or if the at-fault driver’s coverage is not sufficient, at that point you may be able to obtain compensation through their ridesharing company’s insurance coverage.
Both Uber and Lyft offer coverage in the following amounts:
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person/$100,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident – this compensation is available when the driver has the app turned on but has not yet accepted a ride
- $25,000 in property damage per incident – this coverage is available when the driver has the app turned on but, again, has not accepted a ride
- $1 million in third-party liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist liability – this is available when the driver has the app turned on and has accepted a ride and is either on the way to pick up the passenger or has the passenger in the vehicle
So, for example, if you were hit by an Uber driver who had accepted a ride and was distracted while looking for his passenger, you are covered by Uber’s $1 million commercial policy. If you are hit by a Lyft driver who didn’t have the app turned on at the time of the accident, you are not covered by Lyft’s policy and will need to pursue a claim against the Lyft driver’s private auto insurance company.
What Damages Are Available in Uber & Lyft Accident Claims?
Just like any other type of motor vehicle accident, collisions with Uber and Lyft drivers can lead to serious injuries. These injuries, in turn, cause immense physical pain, emotional distress, and financial hardships.
Our Ogden Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help you seek compensation for the following economic and non-economic damages:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Ambulance/hospital fees
- Ongoing medical care
- Cognitive and physical rehabilitation therapy
- Lost wages/income
- Lost future earnings
- Reduced/lost earning capacity (disability)
- Pain and suffering
- Counseling services
- Emotional distress
- Property damage/vehicle repairs
Ready to Tell Us Your Story?
Being involved in a car accident is always frightening. When the other involved driver is an Uber or Lyft driver, you could face significant challenges in recovering the compensation you need and deserve. Our attorneys are ready to listen to your story and learn how we can help. We are fierce advocates for victims of negligence and have what it takes to aggressively fight for your recovery. Our team will handle everything so that you can focus on your recovery.
Get in touch with us by calling (801) 797-3444 or by contacting us online. There is absolutely no cost and no pressure in speaking to us about your situation.
Our Team Is Your Team
The Right Attorney Can Make All the Difference-
A Sense of Understanding
We will step into your shoes to better understand your goals and effectively fight for the justice that you deserve in your case.
-
A Client-First Philosophy
Our team is prepared to do whatever is necessary to ensure your comfort and convenience, from traveling to you to arranging your medical care.
-
A Personalized Experience
Our attorneys refuse to treat you like another number and are committed to being directly involved in your case every step of the way.
-
A Results-Driven Approach
We have recovered over $265 million dollars for injury victims in the past and are committed to winning your case next.
-
A Network of Support
When you hire our firm, you not only get the support of one attorney but a large team guiding you through the legal process.
-
A Compassionate Team
Our attorneys are truly empathetic advocates whom you can count on to be in your corner when you need them most.