Pursuing a Personal Injury Case Against Uber & Lyft After a Rideshare Car Crash

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel, offering convenience and accessibility at the click of a button. However, with the rise of these services comes the risk and potential for personal injuries. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare car crash, understanding how to pursue a personal injury case against these companies is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this process.

The Basics of Rideshare Insurance

Typically, Uber and Lyft maintain insurance policies that cover drivers and their passengers while they are logged onto the rideshare application (ex. Uber or Lyft app). These policies can include liability coverage, which protects an injured individual if the Uber/Lyft driver is the one who is at fault. They also can include “UM” coverage, also known as underinsured/uninsured coverage, which protects the Uber/Lyft driver and/or their passenger(s), when another individual is at-fault.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Liability can fall on various parties, including:

The Rideshare Driver: If the driver is at fault, they may be held responsible under Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy if they were logged onto the rideshare application at the time of the wreck.
Uber or Lyft: In some cases, these companies may be held liable for their driver’s actions, particularly if the driver never should have been qualified to drive for the company.
Other Drivers: If another driver caused the crash, they may be liable under their liability insurance policy, and Uber/Lyft’s UM policy may come into play.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

Ensure Safety: First and foremost, ensure you and others involved are safe. If possible, move to a safe location and call for emergency assistance immediately.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the crash scene, including all vehicle damage, tag numbers, any photographs of immediate injuries, and any relevant road signs and crash details. It is imperative to gather information from witnesses and other drivers involved, including photographs of driver’s licenses, phone numbers, and car insurance cards where appropriate.
Report the Accident: Report the accident to the police and obtain a police report, which can be invaluable for your case.
Seek Medical Attention: For any injuries sustained, it is essential to see care from a medical professional. These medical records can help show the insurance company what you were experiencing and the injuries and limitations sustained.
Notify Uber or Lyft: Report the crash through the rideshare app. Both companies have specific procedures for handling incidents, and it is important to let them know about the wreck right away. You want to save any correspondence with the company, and to make sure you screenshot a copy of your ride, or save the email showing your pickup details.
Consult with Brooks Injury Law’s experienced Personal Injury Attorneys: Engaging one of our personal injury attorneys experienced in rideshare accidents can significantly improve the value of your claim. Our attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of the insurance policies and claims process, while allowing you to recover from your injuries.

Building Your Case

When pursuing a personal injury claim, gathering evidence is key. Your attorney will help compile:

Medical Records: Documenting your injuries and treatment.
Accident Reports: Including police reports and witness statements from the scene.
Photos and Videos: Visual evidence of the crash scene and damages, including 911 calls, body cam footage, citation information.
Expense Documentation: Records of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.

Potential Compensation

Compensation can vary based on the specifics of your case, but may include:

Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to the accident.
Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to injuries.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and suffering, mental and emotional distress.
Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to personal belongings or vehicles.

Conclusion

Navigating a personal injury case against Uber or Lyft after a rideshare accident can be complex, but it’s essential to understand your rights and the options you have for the handling of your claim. By documenting the accident, seeking medical care, and consulting with an experienced attorney at Brooks Injury Law, you can effectively pursue the compensation you deserve.