An auto accident claim is already complicated, but it becomes more difficult when an Uber or Lyft driver is involved. Because of the complex liabilities and multiple insurance policies involved, those injured by a rideshare vehicle need Southfield Uber car accident lawyers skilled in handling these claims.
Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers has helped thousands of victims who have been harmed by Uber and Lyft drivers receive compensation for their injuries, and we are ready to help you as well.
Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers
Our law firm is dedicated to obtaining the highest compensation for clients involved in Uber accidents in Southfield. We have extensive experience in handling rideshare accident cases, with a strong record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts. We thoroughly investigate each case to ensure all medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering are fully addressed.
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We’ll begin by conducting a thorough investigation to determine liability, such as determining whether the rideshare company had previous complaints about its contractor. Your Southfield Uber accident attorney will consult with experts who can attest to how the accident happened and whether your injuries are directly related to the crash. With this information, we’ll negotiate with the relevant insurance company in order to get you the settlement you deserve.
While we are often able to settle out of court in Uber or Lyft accident cases, sometimes a lawsuit is necessary. Should this occur, you will receive world-class legal representation to advocate for you at all times and protect your legal rights.
What Makes Uber Accident Cases More Challenging
An Uber or Lyft accident is more complicated due to the way insurance coverage works for these companies. Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, meaning the rideshare company cannot always be held accountable for the actions of their drivers.
Uber insurance only applies when the rideshare driver is available for ride requests. It must be established they were waiting for a passenger, en route to pick someone up, or transporting someone. Companies may attempt to diminish their responsibility by claiming the driver was not working.
Multiple policies may exist for just the rideshare driver, and other drivers may also bear some liability for Uber or Lyft accidents. Identifying which one is liable can be challenging. This is why having a Southfield Uber auto accident attorney, such as one from our firm, is so important. They will be able to properly negotiate with all parties involved.
- The introduction of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has resulted in a 2 to 4% increase in fatal car accidents across the United States [1].
- From 2019 to 2020, 101 people were killed due to Uber crashes [2].
- Uber states only 0.0002% of all Uber rides resulted in a serious safety incident, such as a motor vehicle crash [2].
- 23% of the fatalities reported from 2019 to 2020 were the result of an alcohol-impaired driver, 100% of which were third-party motorists [2].
- In a survey of Uber and Lyft contractors, one-third admitted to getting into at least one accident while working [3].
- 92% of all drivers have reported seeing at least one incidence of road rage in the past year, which can cause a serious accident. Michigan drivers are most likely to get angry because they were cut off while driving [4].
- A literature review, including Uber and Lyft driver surveys, found driver fatigue in the rideshare industry is a significant public safety risk, equal to the danger posed by sleepy commercial drivers [5].
Common Causes of Uber Accidents
- Drowsy driving
- Reckless driving
- Drunk driving
- Disobeying traffic signals
- Illegal left turns
- Road rage
- Vehicle defects
- Poor weather
- Animal collisions
- Road hazards
Common Injuries Sustained Among Accident Victims
- Bruises and lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injury
- Back and neck injuries
- Strains and sprains
- Eye injuries
- Head injuries
- Burns
- Facial injuries
- Paralysis
- Amputations
- Death
Types of Uber Car Accident Coverage
When it comes to an Uber or Lyft driver, the insurance company for the ridesharing service is only responsible for a car accident if it occurs while the driver is actively working. There are three different phases, each of which has its own coverage amounts.
- Uber Driver is Offline – The driver’s personal auto insurance policy is responsible for any damages resulting from a car accident. These policies vary, and they may have stipulations on what circumstances they will cover for someone who uses their vehicle for commercial purposes.
- Driver is Waiting for a Ride Request -At this time, Uber provides up to $50,000 per person or $100,000 per accident for personal injuries and $25,000 for property damage, but only if the contractor is the at-fault driver [6].
- Driver is en Route or Transporting a Passenger – Uber’s policy rises to $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage per accident if their driver is at fault. They also offer uninsured motorist coverage to their driver and contingent comprehensive collision coverage as long as the driver has their own policy. This will pay for damages up to the value of the vehicle after a $2,500 deductible [6].
Considerations for Personal Insurance of the Rideshare Driver
In either an Uber or Lyft accident, there are times when the company’s insurance does not apply. An Uber driver must have their own personal insurance to cover accidents that occur when they are offline. This is because both Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors.
However, some insurance companies will not cover vehicles used for commercial activities, so Uber drivers may need additional commercial auto insurance. Each insurer has its own stipulations for when its policy will not cover damages and whether an Uber driver needs additional insurance, and they may use this to avoid paying damages.
This complicated insurance situation is why victims need competent Southfield car accident attorneys from our firm on their side. We will examine the applicable policies and determine in what circumstances they must pay compensation.
You Have a Limited Time to File an Uber Accident Lawsuit
Michigan law allows a Southfield Uber accident injury lawyer to file a lawsuit within 3 years of a car accident. In the case of wrongful death, the time limit is 3 years from the person’s death.
As we need time to gather evidence like the accident report and to negotiate with insurance companies, it is crucial you contact us as soon as possible so we have plenty of time to prepare a solid case.
Contact Our Southfield Uber Accident Attorneys Today!
An Uber or Lyft car accident requires expertise to litigate effectively, which is why you need the best lawyers on your side. At Rosenfeld Injury Laywers, we have recovered millions for our clients and work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront costs associated with using our services. With our deep expertise in Uber accident claims, we navigate the complexities effectively and fight vigorously to protect your rights.
To speak to one of a Southfield Uber rideshare accident lawyer for a free consultation, call us at (888) 424-5757 or use our online form.
References: [1] Forbes, [2] Uber, [3] University of Illinois-Chicago, [4] The Zebra, [5] Transport Reviews, [6] Uber, [7] ABC News