Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have transformed how we travel, offering convenience and affordability. However, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can introduce complexities, especially when determining liability and pursuing compensation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident, the Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC, can guide you through the legal process.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Rideshare Accident?
After a rideshare accident, your priority should be safety and well-being. First, check for injuries and seek medical attention if necessary. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, might not manifest symptoms right away. Contact law enforcement to report the accident, as an official report can be crucial for any future claims.
It is also important to gather as much information as possible. Note the rideshare driver’s name, contact information, vehicle details, and insurance information. Additionally, contact information must be obtained from other drivers and any witnesses. Document the accident scene with photos if possible. Finally, report the accident to the rideshare company, as they will have their own procedures for handling accidents.
Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Liability in rideshare accidents can be complex because multiple parties may be involved, including the rideshare driver, other motorists, or even the rideshare company itself. The Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC, can help determine who is responsible based on the specifics of the accident.
Rideshare drivers are typically considered independent contractors, not employees of Uber or Lyft. This distinction can affect how liability is assigned. However, Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers under certain circumstances. If the driver was logged into the rideshare app and actively transported a passenger, the company’s insurance may cover damages. If the driver was not logged into the app, then their personal auto insurance may apply.
Determining liability depends on whether the driver was working at the time of the accident, who caused the accident, and other factors. It is crucial to have experienced legal counsel to navigate these issues and identify the appropriate party to pursue for compensation.
What Compensation Can I Seek After a Rideshare Accident?
If you are injured in a rideshare accident, you may be eligible to seek compensation for various losses. This may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. The amount and type of compensation depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident.
Uber and Lyft provide insurance policies that may cover up to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, depending on whether the driver was on the app and transporting passengers. These policies can be vital in ensuring that accident victims receive compensation when the rideshare driver’s personal insurance is insufficient.
However, rideshare companies often have legal teams working to minimize payouts. This makes it essential to work with experienced attorneys who can advocate for fair compensation on your behalf. The Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC, can assist in calculating the full extent of your damages and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
How Do Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies Work?
Uber and Lyft maintain insurance coverage for their drivers, but the coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. These policies are structured in three different periods, each with distinct coverage levels:
- Period 1: When the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, both Uber and Lyft offer limited liability coverage for any accidents that occur. This coverage includes up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Period 2: Once the driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger, the coverage increases significantly. Both companies provide up to $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Period 3: When the passenger is in the vehicle, the same $1 million liability coverage applies. Additionally, the companies provide contingent comprehensive and collision coverage, which applies if the driver has personal comprehensive and collision coverage on their vehicle.
Understanding how these insurance policies work can be challenging, especially when determining which policy applies to your case. The Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC, can review the details of your accident to determine which coverage is in effect and how best to pursue your claim.
What Are Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents?
Rideshare accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are similar to other motor vehicle accidents. However, the nature of rideshare driving can introduce additional risks. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver Distraction: Rideshare drivers often use their phones for navigation, accepting ride requests, and communicating with passengers, which can lead to distraction.
- Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours or use ridesharing as a second job, which can result in fatigue and impaired driving abilities.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Some drivers engage in speeding or other reckless behaviors in an effort to complete more rides and earn more money.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Since there are few barriers to becoming a rideshare driver, some may lack adequate experience, increasing the risk of accidents.
When these factors contribute to an accident, determining liability can be complicated. Legal representation can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered and those responsible are held accountable.
What Should I Know About Filing a Claim After a Rideshare Accident?
Filing a claim after a rideshare accident can be more complicated than a traditional car accident claim because it involves dealing with the rideshare company, the driver, and potentially other insurance carriers. The Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC, can help you navigate this process.
It’s essential to act quickly, as rideshare companies and insurance providers may begin their investigations immediately. Delaying your claim could result in lost evidence or a diminished chance of receiving compensation. Additionally, each state has a statute of limitations, which limits the time you have to file a claim.
To build a strong case, you will need evidence such as the police report, medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation. A lawyer can assist in gathering this evidence and presenting a compelling claim for compensation.
How Can a Lawyer Help With My Rideshare Accident Case?
Rideshare accident cases can involve multiple parties, including the rideshare company, the driver, other motorists, and various insurance providers. Handling these complexities on your own can be overwhelming. A lawyer with experience in rideshare accidents can ensure that your rights are protected and that all liable parties are held accountable.
At Anchor Legal Group, PLLC, the Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and take your case to court if necessary. Their goal is to help you obtain the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward.
Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC Defend the Rights of Injured Rideshare Victims
Understanding your rights and the complexities of rideshare insurance policies is essential. The Eastern Shore Uber and Lyft Accident lawyers at Anchor Legal Group, PLLC are here to help you navigate these issues and pursue fair compensation for your injuries. You can call us today at 757-LAW-0000 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Virginia Beach, we serve clients in Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Portsmouth, Newport News, Hampton, Williamsburg, and Eastern Shore, Virginia.
