Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are convenient ways to get around town. Unfortunately, due to driver negligence or other factors, serious accidents can occur, leaving passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians severely injured or even killed. Navigating the legal complexities of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, especially when multiple parties and insurance policies are involved. That’s where Kline & Specter comes in.
Causes of Uber & Lyft Accidents
These accidents can often be the result of driver negligence, such as:
- Driver error or inexperience
- Excessive speed
- Distracted driving
- Impaired driving
- Driving negligently in dangerous road conditions
If you were injured in a rideshare vehicle, you may have a legal claim against the driver and the company.
Your Rights as an Injured Party
As an injured party in an Uber or Lyft accident -- whether you were a passenger, another motorist, or a pedestrian -- you have the right to seek compensation for your losses.
Because of how rideshare companies operate, litigating these cases can be challenging.
For instance, rideshare companies sometimes say they have $1 million in liability insurance. But they also say their drivers are independent contractors and the rideshare companies are not responsible for the harms caused by them. At Kline & Specter, our attorneys have repeatedly defeated those types of defenses and obtained full compensation for our clients.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
After an Uber or Lyft accident, take these steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Document the Accident: Photograph the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Notify the Rideshare Company: Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app to ensure the incident is logged with their insurance provider.
- Consult a Rideshare Accident Attorney: Legal complexities in rideshare cases require expertise. Kline & Specter’s meticulous approach ensures no detail is overlooked.
FAQs
How Does Liability Differ if I Was a Passenger Versus Another Driver in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
As a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, liability for the accident does not fall on you. Instead, the responsible party – whether it’s the rideshare driver or another motorist – will be held accountable.
If you were another driver involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle, the at-fault driver’s insurance would generally cover your damages. If the rideshare driver was at fault, Uber or Lyft’s insurance may apply, depending on the driver’s app status at the time.
What Evidence Is Needed To Strengthen My Uber or Lyft Accident Case?
Strong evidence is essential for a successful Uber or Lyft accident claim. Examples of critical evidence include:
- Photographs and Videos: Document the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
- Police Report: Obtain an official record of the incident.
- Medical Records: Provide proof of your injuries and associated costs.
- Witness Statements: Gather contact information and testimonies from anyone who saw the accident.
- Rideshare App Data: Screenshots of ride details can confirm the driver’s app status.
Why Choose Kline & Specter?
Kline & Specter, PC, has successfully handled cases against rideshare companies involving the negligence of their drivers. Our rideshare accident attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of catastrophic motor vehicle accidents and have won numerous verdicts and settlements totaling hundreds of millions of dollars.
Kline & Specter, with more than 50 attorneys, five of whom are also doctors, has experience and success not only in lawsuits involving accidents but also those involving large corporations. We offer free and confidential case evaluations and promise sensitive and caring representation. We handle cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and nationwide.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Have you or a loved one suffered an injury from an accident caused by an Uber or Lyft driver? If so, you can reach Kline & Specter through our online form or by calling 215-772-1000.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, we will partner with local attorneys.
