Uber/Lyft Car Accidents
If you have been involved in a car accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, you need the help of an experienced car accident lawyer. These cases are incredibly complex and not at all like a standard personal injury case involving two drivers. This is because of the complex relationship that exists between Uber or Lyft and their drivers, which makes it difficult to determine who actually owes you financial compensation.
Suing the Driver vs. Suing Uber/Lyft
To determine who you need to sue, the details of your accident will need to be fully evaluated.
First, was the driver carrying a passenger at the time of the crash? If so, this means that the driver was essentially working for Uber/Lyft at the time, so Uber or Lyft will bear at least a portion of the liability. If the driver did not have a passenger but was actively using the rideshare app, you may still receive limited compensation from an Uber or Lyft insurance policy, but you will probably need to sue the driver as well.
Any accidents involving an Uber or Lyft driver who was not carrying any passengers or actively using the app will be the sole responsibility of the driver and their own personal insurance policy.
When Uber/Lyft’s Insurance Kicks In
Uber and Lyft have an insurance policy in place that is to provide coverage per incident. This means that if you were hurt in an accident as a passenger, the liability insurance should cover your medical bills and financial losses.
The challenge becomes if Uber/Lyft have not claimed responsibility for their driver’s behavior, if you were the other driver involved, their insurance policy may or may not kick in to help you.
Recovering Financial Damages for a Rideshare Accident
Filing a lawsuit gives you the opportunity to recover financial damages for the injuries and losses sustained because of the accident. This may include any of the following that apply to your case:
- Medical Bills – Your emergency room, diagnostic, and ongoing medical care should all be compensated. Prior to settling your case, it is important to calculate what your future expenses may be as well.
- Pain and Suffering – If your injuries have caused you significant pain and discomfort, you can seek compensation.
- Lost Income – Taking time off from work to recover is normal, but it can result in lost income. You should not have to suffer financial loss in addition to physical pain, making this an important consideration for any personal injury case.
- Any other expenses or losses incurred as a result of the accident.
Speak with an Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer
Given the complexities of cases involving Uber drivers and rideshare car accidents, this is not the sort of claim you want to handle without guidance from an experienced attorney. Call us to speak with a Chicago Uber/Lyft car accident lawyer if you have been hurt in one of these wrecks.
You can schedule a free consultation at Albrecht Law Offices by calling 312-983-7000.