Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Ride-sharing apps have become increasingly popular over the past few years, providing a convenient and affordable way to travel. However, with the increased demand for such services, there has been a corresponding rise in accidents involving ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft. While Uber and Lyft have claimed to have taken measures to ensure the safety of their customers, accidents still occur. If you have been in an Uber or Lyft accident in Ohio or Michigan, understanding the law and your rights is crucial to protect yourself and seek compensation for damages. If you have been in an Uber or Lyft accident in Ohio or Michigan, our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for damages. Our firm has extensive experience in rideshare accidents and personal injury claims, and we are here to help you protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.

 

Ride-Sharing Accidents in Ohio and Michigan

 

 

Ride-sharing services have risen in Ohio and Michigan, with Uber and Lyft at the forefront. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 2,800 car accidents in Ohio involving ride-sharing cars, including Uber and Lyft, in 2019. Michigan recorded over 2,200 accidents involving ride-sharing services in the same year.

 

An Alarming Trend: The Rise of Ride-Sharing Accidents

 

Moreover, recent statistics reveal that the number of accidents involving ride-sharing services is on the rise, with 2021 recording the highest number of ride-sharing accidents. Driver negligence, such as drunk driving, considered the leading cause of accidents, has been reported to be the root cause of most accidents.

 

2022 Statistics: Personal Injury Accidents Involving Uber or Lyft

 

Statistics from 2022 show a rise in personal injury accidents involving Uber or Lyft in Ohio and Michigan. Inexperienced ridesharing drivers and long hours heighten the risk of being involved in an Uber or Lyft accident. In 2021, car crashes claimed 285 lives in Ohio and 768 in Michigan. Human error is the main cause of these crashes, so it is crucial to be aware of your rights in case of an accident.

 

What to Do If You Are In an Accident as a Passenger

 

Ride-sharing services have provided a convenient alternative, especially for people who want to avoid the hassle of driving. Knowing how to respond when an accident occurs is essential as a passenger. Here are the steps you should take immediately after being in an accident:

 

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

 

The first and most important step after an Uber or Lyft accident is to seek medical attention immediately. If you are hurt in an accident, it would be the most prudent approach to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure no underlying injuries. Consulting with a medical professional will also help you understand the nature and extent of your injuries and the resulting injury claim.

 

 

Take Photos and Gather Evidence

 

If it is safe, take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to the vehicle and your injuries. This evidence may help establish liability and determine the extent of your injuries. Additionally, gather the contact information of the driver and any witnesses who saw the accident.

 

 

Consult with an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

 

If you have been injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. The rideshare accident attorney can guide you through the claims process, help you gather evidence, and negotiate with the ride-hailing service’s insurance company on your behalf. Additionally, they can help you recover compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

 

Stay in Communication with Your Lawyer:

 

Maintaining constant communication with your lawyer is crucial throughout the claims process. Rideshare accident lawyers will provide timely updates on your case’s progress, address your queries, and offer guidance on the next steps. This proactive approach will keep you informed and guarantee you obtain the compensation you deserve.

 

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents

 

Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be a complex process. For the most part, the liability falls on the driver if they caused the accident. However, the rideshare company’s insurance policy comes into play in case of accidents that occur during a ride. Rideshare drivers must have a comprehensive insurance policy to protect themselves and their passengers. In case of accidents caused by third parties, their insurance policy would provide coverage. As a passenger, it’s best to ensure that the driver has proper rideshare insurance and that the rideshare company they are using has adequate coverage. By taking all these measures, we can ensure the safety of everyone involved in a rideshare trip.

Parties Involved

 

Liability on the Driver

 

Let’s start by understanding the different parties involved in a rideshare accident. There are three main parties: the driver, the passenger, and a third party (if any). The driver would be liable if the driver’s negligence caused the accident. However, if a third party caused the accident, the liability would fall on them. In some cases, the driver and the third party may share liability.

 

Liability on the Rideshare Company

 

Let’s look at different scenarios and determine who is at fault. If the driver caused the accident while the passenger was in the car, the rideshare company’s insurance policy would come into play. The company’s insurance policy covers bodily injury and property damage caused by the driver. However, the coverage may vary depending on the driver’s personal insurance policy and the state laws.

If the accident happened while the driver was en route to pick up a passenger, the driver’s auto insurance policy would come into play. Rideshare companies’ insurance policies provide coverage only when the driver has accepted a ride and is ready to pick up the passenger. However, the driver’s personal insurance policy may not provide coverage during this period. Thus, drivers must have rideshare insurance coverage.

 

Accidents Caused by Third Parties

 

Finally, let’s discuss the liability in case of accidents caused by third-party vehicles. If a third party caused the accident, their insurance policy would come into play. The driver and ride-sharing company would not be held liable in this case. However, rideshare companies may have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect their drivers and passengers in case of accidents caused by a third party who is not adequately insured.

 

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

 

If you sustain injuries in a ride-sharing accident, you have a right to compensation for all your damages. Such claims may include medical expenses, lost wages, and damages resulting from pain and suffering. To pursue these claims, you must hire an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you. The rideshare accident lawyer will help you navigate the complex legal terrain, deal with the insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.

 

Taking the Right Steps after an Accident

 

No one ever envisions getting into a car accident, especially while riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft. One moment, you’re enjoying the smooth ride, and the next, you’re left feeling overwhelmed and stressed due to the accident. Although daunting, taking specific steps to ensure your protection in an accident is essential. Seeking medical attention and calling the police are some of the first steps you should take. However, what happens next is critical to your case.

 

Consult with Experienced Local Rideshare Accident Lawyers

 

Consulting with experienced Lyft or Uber accident lawyers like Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault can ensure you receive the appropriate compensation for your injuries. Taking prompt action and seeking the right counsel will position you best to obtain the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 419-843-6663 or online using our convenient contact form.

If you reside in or around any of the areas we serve in Ohio and Michigan – Maumee, Defiance, Fremont, Findlay, Lima, Mansfield, Toledo, and Monroe – you can count on having one of our best car accident attorneys from Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault to represent you in a personal injury or wrongful death case.  With a local personal injury attorney near you, help is just a phone call away.