Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have taken the commuting world by storm, offering unparalleled convenience. The process is simple. You download the app on your phone, indicate your start point and destination, choose the option that best fits your needs, and there you have it, a reliable way to get from Point A to Point B. With all of the convenience of Uber and Lyft, it is easy to overlook some risks associated with these companies. It is just as easy to be the victim in an Uber/Lyft accident as in an accident where you or someone you know is driving. So, what do you do if you or a loved one is the victim of an accident while using Uber/Lyft? We will cover some need-to-know information if you find yourself needing legal advice or help to take steps to get justice. You can contact our team of experienced and compassionate lawyers at Good Guys Injury Law for a free consultation or call.
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What happens if my Uber/Lyft driver gets in an accident?
There are several different steps that you can take if your rideshare driver gets into an accident. Our legal team at Good Guys Injury Law wants to provide you with as much information as possible so that you do not suffer for the responsible party’s neglect. As Utah car accident lawyers, we have the knowledge to ensure you are well informed on what to expect if your driver is involved in a collision while transporting you.
Steps to take after an Uber or Lyft accident?
Immediately following an accident in an Uber/Lyft, you should:
- Ensure everyone involved in the rideshare accident is safe. If anyone is injured, you should call 911.
- The police should be contacted to perform an accident report.
- The names, contact information, and insurance information of everyone involved should be exchanged. The same information should be gathered from each witness.
- Write a personal statement of everything you can recollect about the accident in case you need to relay the information to an insurance adjuster or testify in court.
What happens if I get injured in an Uber/Lyft accident? Who is responsible for my injuries?
When working for Uber or Lyft, all drivers are required to carry insurance coverage on their vehicles. Knowing how to receive all the compensation you deserve can be confusing, and the process can be difficult to navigate. An experienced accident attorney can help you smoothly transition through each step and get you the compensation you deserve.
If you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of having been injured during the collision, the at-fault driver has to be determined. If the Uber/Lyft driver is found to be responsible, then any damages to be paid are covered by the insurance company of the at-fault driver. In most cases, the at-fault driver is legally responsible for compensating for any damages accrued due to their failure to navigate safely. Once the responsible party is determined, you can file a claim with their insurance company just as you would if you were the driver in the accident.
Can I file a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft directly?
If you have been subject to harm due to intentional or negligent recklessness by an Uber or Lyft driver, you can file a claim against the corresponding rideshare company. However, bringing a personal injury lawsuit directly against a rideshare company is complicated. Uber and Lyft hire their drivers as independent contractors. This means they are not typical employees, and Uber/Lyft may not be legally responsible for the driver’s actions. That said, filing a lawsuit against a rideshare driver may be necessary if the damages are more than what the driver’s insurance will pay or if you believe that the company carelessly hired, trained, or retained the driver responsible for your injuries.
Is there a time limit to file a claim for my car accident injuries?
It is important to note the statute of limitations on civil cases. This statute of limitations varies from state to state, typically one to three years. However, in Utah, the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit is four years. Be sure you file within this four-year time limit and can meet the burden of proof to be eligible for the compensation you deserve.
Do I need a Lawyer to file an Uber or Lyft injury lawsuit? How do I know if I have a case?
The decision to hire a personal injury attorney is entirely at your discretion. However, hiring an attorney to represent you in your case has many benefits:
- Legal advice
- Help navigating the proceedings
- Help meeting the burden of proof
- Having someone who understands the legal requirements and policies
- Negotiation skills
- Prevention of critical mistakes
- Generally, settlements are higher
- Help expediting the case
- Providing peace of mind
These are just a few of the benefits of having a personal injury attorney on your side. Let Christensen & Hymas be your legal representation in your rideshare accident lawsuit. We have the knowledge and experience to help you through this difficult process. We understand that these cases can be complicated, and life does not stop. We can save you time, effort, and anxiety by going to bat on your behalf.
Every situation is different, so knowing if you have a case in the first place can be difficult to ascertain on your own. We can help you determine the validity of your claim.
Request a Free Consultation or Call, and we can answer any questions you may have.
Reference:
Lee, C. (2022). I Was Injured While Riding in an Uber or Lyft Vehicle.