Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys

Nationwide Support for Uber & Lyft Accident Victims

Ridesharing companies, like Uber and Lyft, have become the most popular ride-hailing service in the U.S., outpacing taxis in major cities and suburban areas from coast to coast. But what happens if you are in an accident with an Uber or Lyft? Who is legally liable for your injuries, resulting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering? The answer is it depends. The circumstances of the accident will play a significant role in what comes next.

If you were involved in an accident with a ridesharing vehicle, we encourage you to contact our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys. At Lowe Law Group, we represent victims of ridesharing accidents nationwide. Each state has slightly different rules regarding these types of accidents; our attorneys are incredibly well-versed in the applicable laws in your area and how to advocate for the maximum compensation you need and deserve. We understand that being involved in an accident can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming, so we are committed to removing the burden of filing a claim from your shoulders.

Can I Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident?

Both Uber and Lyft have several protections that limit their liability in the event of an accident. Namely, drivers for both ridesharing companies are classified as independent contractors, not employees. This means that, legally, neither Uber nor Lyft is liable for the actions of their drivers.

However, that being said, both companies offer insurance coverage in the event of an accident. While you may not be able to sue Uber or Lyft directly, you may be able to file a claim under this coverage. It’s important to note that, in most cases, you must file a claim against the Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance company first. Only after this claim is denied or coverage limits are exceeded can you seek compensation through Uber or Lyft’s insurance policies.

Additionally, the circumstances of the accident are critical to the amount of compensation you could receive from Uber or Lyft. Both companies recognize three separate driving periods, each with different coverage.

These three driving periods are:

• Period One: The driver does not have the app turned on – If the driver doesn’t have the app switched on, they are not considered
  to be working for their ridesharing company, and, therefore, neither Uber
  nor Lyft offers any coverage during this driving period. If you are hit
  by an Uber or Lyft driver who doesn’t have the app turned on, you
  can still seek compensation for your damages by filing a typical car accident claim.
• Period Two: The driver has the app turned on but hasn’t accepted
  a ride – When the driver has the app switched on and is actively looking for a ride
  but hasn’t accepted one yet, Uber and Lyft offer specific coverage
  limits in the event of an accident. These limits vary somewhat from state
  to state, and state laws may also dictate how and when this coverage comes
  into play.
• Period Three: The driver has the app turned on and has accepted a ride – When the driver has the app switched on, has accepted a ride, and is either
  on the way to pick up the passenger or has the passenger in the vehicle,
  both Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in bodily injury, death, and
  property damage coverage.

So, if you were the passenger of an Uber that got into an accident, you are eligible to seek compensation under that $1 million policy. If you were the driver of another vehicle that was hit by a Lyft driver who had the app turned on but hadn’t accepted a ride at the time of the collision, you could still recover compensation through Lyft’s insurance coverage if you can prove that you were not at fault for the accident, were less than 50% at fault for the accident, or that the Lyft driver had some percentage of blame, depending on where you live and the applicable state laws.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage

One of the most significant aspects of navigating an Uber or Lyft accident claim is understanding the insurance coverage in place. Uber and Lyft carry comprehensive insurance policies to protect drivers, passengers, and third parties involved in accidents. These policies typically cover:

• Medical Costs: Coverage for any medical expenses incurred due to injuries from the accident.
• Lost Earnings: Compensation for wages lost due to being unable to work due to injuries.
• Damage to Property: Financial support for repairs or replacements of damaged property in the accident.

However, specifics may differ based on the situation surrounding the ride. Key considerations include:

• If the rideshare driver is determined to be at fault, you may have access
  to both their insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance, which can
  offer additional coverage beyond the driver’s policy.
• Victims must be aware of the potential for multiple insurance sources when
  pursuing a claim.

Engaging with an attorney who understands these nuances can ensure you are aware of your rights and fully utilize all available coverage options for your recovery.

Key Evidence in Rideshare Accident Claims

Gathering key evidence is essential when pursuing a claim after an accident involving a rideshare vehicle. This may include:

• Police Reports: Authorized documentation of the accident, which can help establish the facts.
• Eyewitness Testimonies: Statements from those who observed the incident, providing valuable context.
• Photographs: Visual documentation of injuries, damages, and the accident scene, which
  can strengthen your case.
• Rideshare Data: Records maintained by Uber or Lyft regarding the driver’s activities through
  their apps, which can provide crucial insights into the driver’s
  status during the accident.

Your attorney can assist in obtaining this critical information, which is crucial for establishing liability and building a strong case. Comprehensive evidence can significantly improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome, ensuring you receive the necessary compensation for your recovery.

Why Uber and Lyft Accident Cases Require Specialized Legal Expertise

Uber and Lyft accident cases are not like regular car accident claims. These cases are very complex, and many nuances are involved in establishing liability. We must establish liability, as your personal injury claim will almost certainly depend on proving who is legally responsible for your damages.

At Lowe Law Group, our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys serve clients nationwide. We have a large team of experienced and knowledgeable attorneys, paralegals, accident reconstructionists, medical specialists, and expert witnesses who all work together to investigate your claim, find supporting evidence, evaluate your injuries and damages, and build a powerful case aimed at securing the maximum compensation you are owed. We know that personal injury law can be confusing, and the process of filing a claim may be extremely stressful when you’re dealing with your injuries, taking time off work, and recovering.

Our goal is to ease your stress by navigating the process on your behalf, working to secure a fair recovery for you while you focus on healing. Throughout the process, we are always available, 24/7, to assist you. Our team is large and experienced, but we prioritize client satisfaction above all else. Your Uber or Lyft accident lawyer will provide consistent communication and updates on your case’s progress every step of the way.

Contact Our Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers Today

The first step toward recovery is contacting an experienced and compassionate attorney ready to hear your story and inform you of your legal rights and options. We invite you to contact Lowe Law Group today to learn more, including how we can help. We want to hear your story, and there is no pressure when you speak to our team about your case.

We offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no attorneys’ fees unless/until we secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf. If we don’t win your case, you don’t pay—it’s that simple.