Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer convenience, but just like other passenger vehicles, they get into collisions. Rideshare accidents can be more complicated than standard crashes due to multiple parties having potential liability.
Many rideshare drivers are independent contractors, which can affect how insurance applies to a claim, so understanding your legal rights and the insurance process is essential after an accident. The Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys can explain your options, gather evidence, and pursue fair compensation for your rideshare accident.
After a rideshare accident, taking the proper steps immediately after the collision can support a potential claim.
To determine fault in an Uber or Lyft collision, our Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers research the actions of each driver, insurance policies, evidence, and rideshare company practices. Most rideshare drivers operate as independent contractors, which can affect how liability is established after a crash.
If the driver was actively engaged with the rideshare app at the time of the collision, that could influence fault:
Investigating the accident typically involves examining police reports, eyewitness accounts, and the driver’s statements. Our Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help identify all relevant parties and determine liability.
If an Uber driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in their vehicle, Uber’s insurance policy is in effect. That coverage is up to $1.25 million for personal injuries, property damage, and fatalities. That also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Uber passengers, drivers, passengers in other cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians are covered here.
Lyft has a $1 million policy if your damages from a crash exceed what your auto insurance covers. Bear in mind that if you are injured by a rideshare driver, you still need to prove fault. You will need to file a claim with your own insurance first since New York has a no-fault law.
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors. That means these companies do not take responsibility for training these drivers or regulating their driving behaviors. In addition, rideshare drivers do not receive high wages and may feel pressure to work more to earn more. That can lead to an increased likelihood of crashes.
When a rideshare accident occurs, it may be possible to seek compensation for a variety of damages depending on the circumstances of the crash. Damages may include:
Our Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can review your situation and calculate the full range of damages that could be sought. Knowing what is available and how to pursue it can allow you to recover more fully after a rideshare accident.
After a rideshare accident, the company’s insurance providers may offer a settlement. While settlements can provide compensation quickly, they may not always address the full scope of damages. Insurance companies aim to settle claims promptly to minimize their financial obligations. Accepting a settlement without a complete understanding of your damages may result in inadequate financial recovery.
Our Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can carefully review your offer before you sign anything. We can determine whether the offer accounts for all current and anticipated medical costs, lost income, and other expenses related to the collision. Insurance companies may not always have your best interests in mind, which is why objective legal advice can be beneficial when evaluating a proposed settlement.
A legal professional can evaluate the details of the accident and establish the best course of action for a person involved in a rideshare collision. They can investigate the circumstances of the crash, review police reports, and gather evidence to support a claim. They can communicate with insurance companies on behalf of the injured party to facilitate fair negotiation and pursue compensation if a settlement cannot be reached.
Our Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights at every stage of the claim. That is particularly important when multiple insurance policies are involved or if the fault is in dispute. Working with us allows you to focus on your recovery while the legal process proceeds in the right direction.
Accidents involving rideshare services can be stressful and confusing, particularly when insurance coverage is unclear or multiple parties may have some degree of fault. The Hamburg Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Dan Chiacchia Injury Attorneys are ready to assist you with every step of the claims process. For a free consultation, call our Hamburg, New York, office at 716-648-3030 or fill out our online form. We proudly serve clients in West Seneca, Orchard Park, Lackawanna, Cheektowaga, Erie County, and the rest of the county.
