Rideshare accidents, involving services like Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly common as more people rely on these convenient transportation options.
However, when an accident occurs, determining liability and navigating the complex insurance process can be challenging. If you have been involved in a rideshare accident, reach out to a rideshare accident attorney today to help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation necessary for your recovery.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents and Their Causes
Rideshare accidents can be defined as any accident involving a vehicle operating under a service such as Uber, Lyft, or a similar platform. Anyone can be affected by these types of accidents including passengers, other motorists, or pedestrians.
Rideshare drivers often use their personal vehicles and are mostly considered independent contractors, making liability determination and insurance coverage tricky.
Rideshare accidents can be caused by a wide variety of factors including:
- Distracted Driving
- Speeding
- Driver Fatigue
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance
- Driving Under the Influence
Understanding the common causes of rideshare accidents is the first step towards protecting your rights after an incident. If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, it is crucial to speak with a knowledgeable attorney who can navigate any legal and insurance challenges.
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Rideshare Accident Trends: Insights into Growing Risks
Rideshare accidents are on the rise, and understanding key statistics is crucial to prevent injuries and save lives. While existing data provides some insight into the causes of the increasing accident rate, there is still much to learn. However, researchers have already discovered various safety issues that must be addressed.
According to a study done by University of Illionois Chicago, one-third of surveyed rideshare drivers reported being in a crash (Science Direct). Rideshare drivers face a higher risk of crashing due to several factors including:
- Cell–Phone Reliance – The driver’s reliance on their cellphone for new passenger information may cause unnecessary distractions.
- Many Drivers’ Second Job – Rideshare drivers often take the job as a secondary position, making them more likely to be fatigued while driving.
- Driving an unpredictable passenger – This means unpredictable distractions, such as an unruly drunk passenger.
- Driving on unfamiliar roads – Rideshare drivers often must travel all over the state on a regular basis, meaning it is likely they will encounter unfamiliar areas.
- Improper vehicle maintenance – Uber and Lyft have no specific requirements for vehicle maintenance, and with the majority of drivers operating their personal vehicles, there is a greater chance of a malfunction.
Lyft’s website mentions specific requirements for driver vehicles, but there is no mention of any required maintenance (Lyft). A driver must have a 2009 or newer vehicle, four doors, and 5-8 seats (including driver’s).
The vehicle cannot be a taxi, limousine, or titled as salvage, non-repairable or rebuilt. However, the rideshare driver is personally responsible for any maintenance including oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks. Anytime you get into a rideshare vehicle, there is no guarantee that it is safe to operate.
As the rideshare industry evolves, so should our understanding of its risks. The statistics are just the beginning and highlight a pressing need for more research, better safety protocols, and greater awareness among drivers.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a ride-share accident, these statistics are more than just numbers. Contact a skilled attorney to best understand your rights and how to protect them after a crash.
Ohio Rideshare Policies
When it comes to rideshare accidents in Ohio, it is vital to understand the insurance policies that apply to rideshare drivers. According to O.R.C. Section 4509.79, Ohio requires rideshare drivers to maintain minimum insurance coverage while logged into the app, including:
- $100,000 per bodily injury or death of one person in an accident
- $300,000 per any bodily injury or death of two or more persons in one accident
- $50,000 of bodily injury liability per person
- Uber and Lyft’s policies also state that they require $25,000 property damage coverage
The coverage provided by Lyft and Uber is only applicable if the accident occurred while the rideshare driver is on the clock or logged into the app. Rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors, so they are not always protected by their company’s insurance.
Uber and Lyft rideshare insurance policies provide up to $1 million in total liability coverage when the driver is clocked in and transporting passengers. This $1 million in coverage can provide significant protection, however it is important to understand how it applies depending on the circumstances of the accident.
- To learn more about Lyft’s insurance coverage, they detail all exceptions here.
- To learn more about Uber’s insurance coverage, they detail all exceptions here.
Understanding these policy minimums is crucial for anyone involved in a rideshare accident. Since rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors, this coverage may not always apply.
Contacting an experienced rideshare accident attorney can help ensure that you fully understand your rights and receive all the legal help you need.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you have been involved in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away so that your injuries are treated effectively, and any future complications are prevented.
Receiving medical attention after an accident will also create documented evidence of how you suffered due to the accident and will strengthen your claim.
Once you have been initially treated, contact a rideshare accident attorney to evaluate your case. A rideshare accident lawyer will be able to talk with you about your case and determine all they can do to help. This may include gathering crucial evidence, talking to insurance companies, and building your case to optimize the outcome.
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Types of Rideshare Accidents You Could be Compensated For:
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles, such as Uber or Lyft, can occur in various situations. Whether you are a passenger in a rideshare car, a pedestrian struck by a rideshare driver, or another driver involved in a collision with a rideshare vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Understanding the different types of rideshare accidents can help you know what to expect when pursuing a claim.
- Pedestrian struck by a rideshare driver
- Reckless driving by the rideshare driver resulting in passengers being injured or killed
- Driving a vehicle and being struck by an Uber or Lyft driver, resulting in injuries or damages
No matter the type of rideshare accident you’ve experienced, you have legal rights that may qualify you for compensation. Having an experienced attorney by your side can ensure you have the best chance of securing the maximum compensation you deserve.
Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents
There are several parties that can play a role in a rideshare accident claim including the rideshare driver and the rideshare company. The liability of these parties depends on several factors, including the driver’s status online when the accident happened.
A rideshare driver can either be active or inactive when operating their vehicle. When the driver is logged into the rideshare app and accepting rides, they are considered “active.” When the drive is logged out of the app, and not accepting rides, they are considered “inactive.”
If the driver is inactive during the accident, their personal insurance applies to the case and may have limited coverage.
If the driver is active during the accident, the rideshare company’s insurance, which usually has higher coverage, applies to the claim. The rideshare company’s insurance may cover medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages.
Your Legal Options After a Rideshare Accident
According to O.R.C 2305.10, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. This includes both property damage claims and personal injury claims. While two years may seem like plenty of time, strengthening a case and gathering evidence takes time. It is best to contact an attorney as soon as possible so they can begin getting you the compensation you deserve.
The most common legal options after a rideshare accident include:
- Filing an insurance claim (With the driver’s insurance, the rideshare company insurance, or potentially your own insurance).
- Filing a Personal Injury Claim (Against the rideshare driver, the rideshare insurance company, or a third party).
- Filing a Wrongful Death Claim (In the event of a fatality)
Navigating the complexities of rideshare accidents can be challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved. A skilled attorney can investigate your case, gather evidence, handle communications with insurance companies, and if needed, represent you in court.
Need Help After a Rideshare Accident? Contact Our Experienced Injury Lawyers Today
Rideshare accidents can bring unexpected challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether it’s dealing with insurance claims or ensuring your rights are protected, our team at The Fitch Law Firm is here to provide the guidance you need and personalized support. We are committed to making the legal process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on healing.
Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, contact us today at (614) 545-3930 or our website, and let us help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
