Uber and Lyft Accidents: Why You Need an Attorney
- Accidents involving Uber and Lyft can be legally complex due to the rideshare drivers' status as independent contractors.
- Unlike traditional employers, Uber and Lyft often attempt to deny responsibility for accidents caused by their drivers.
- Rideshare companies may try to shift the blame onto the driver, leaving injured passengers or other parties to deal with insurance complications.
- Getting an attorney involved ensures that you have a strong advocate who understands the nuances of rideshare accident claims.
- The knowledgeable attorneys at Brooks Injury Law can help you navigate the complexities of multiple insurance policies, including the driver's and the rideshare company’s coverage.
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Rideshare Accidents
More Rides Means More Accidents
Every day, millions of Uber and Lyft rides happen across Georgia and the United States, contributing to an increasing number of accidents involving rideshare vehicles. With more rides on the road, the likelihood of crashes also grows. These apps continuously track critical data such as the number of hours a driver is active, their speed, and routes taken—information that can become crucial evidence in building a case against a driver at fault. Additionally, insurance coverage for rideshare accidents differs significantly from standard car wrecks; specific policies and coverage limits apply when a driver is logged into the app or actively transporting passengers. This complexity makes it essential to have a knowledgeable attorney who understands these unique factors and can leverage them to strengthen your claim and seek fair compensation.
For questions regarding a rideshare accident and the next steps you should take, contact Brooks Injury Law. Consultations are always free.
Who is Responsible For an Uber Accident?
When lawsuits occur regarding Uber accidents, you're typically going after the driver rather than the company itself. These drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees, so therefore the company tends to deny any legal liability for any type of accident involving their drivers. Below we have listed different accident scenarios and who would be considered responsible.
- If you are on an Uber trip as a passenger and your driver gets into an accident and it is THEIR fault, you are covered under Uber's one-million-dollar insurance policy.
- If you are another driver on the road or a pedestrian and are involved in an accident with an Uber driver when they are OFF duty, Uber's insurance does NOT cover it. You would then be going after the driver's personal policy instead.
- If you are another driver on the road or a pedestrian and are involved in an accident with an Uber driver when they are ON duty but is NOT carrying a passenger, this again would go against the driver's personal insurance.
- If you are involved in an accident as another driver or a pedestrian with an Uber driver WHILE they have a passenger, the company's insurance will come into play.
All of this information can be confusing and overwhelming, so it is imperative that you contact an attorney that has experience with rideshare accidents and third party claims. Our team at Brooks Injury Law is prepared to answer your questions and get you the help you need regarding your Uber accident.
What to do After an Uber Accident
Call 911
Like any car accident, it is important to always get a police report so there is legal record of it happening. If you are injured, get medical attention immediately and keep record of any hospital visits and bills.
Take Pictures
Like any car accident, it is important to always get a police report so there is legal record of it happening. If you are injured, get medical attention immediately and keep record of any hospital visits and bills.
Get Witness Information
It's smart to have a list of witnesses that can vouch for you in the case that someone tries to deny the accident - whether that be the rideshare driver or the company. If possible, gather witness information including their name, phone number, and email address.
Save Your Ride Receipt
Rideshare services are luckily conducted on an app so it makes it easy to save your ride receipt. Make sure that you screen shot the receipt so it doesn't get lost and you always have proof of your ride. It will show your drivers name, the time your trip started, and where you were picked up. All of this information can help with further investigation of your accident claim.
Get Legal Help
This step is crucial when you are involved in a rideshare accident. These accidents are handled differently than regular car crashes and attorneys know the correct process to take. Evidence of your ride MUST be preserved, so that's why it's important to seek an attorney that can help you notify the company that you were riding with. Never pay for consultations, but instead find an experienced firm that will listen to your case free of cost, like Brooks Injury Law.
Why Choose Brooks Injury Law?
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Average case settlement exceeds $115,000.
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Number of cases handled by Brooks Injury Law, and counting...
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What our clients are saying...
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Brooks Injury Law is the best! They get back to you in a timely manner, always trying to get you the best possible solution to whatever injuries you may have, and always have the best attitude and customer service. Not only does my back … More feel better but I also know who I’m calling if I ever get hurt in an accident again! -
Brooks Injury Law really helped me out after my family and I were in a horrible car crash. My attorney Morgyn and her paralegal Lauren were very professional and caring. They kept me informed on what was going on in my case, and I was very … More happy with the end result and the payout I received. I would recommend Brooks Injury Law to anyone in need of a great group of lawyers who really care about their clients.
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