Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft have become a normal part of our everyday lives. Some people use the company to help with their commute to work, while others would simply like to avoid the dangerous act of drinking and driving. However, it is important to note that employees of ridesharing companies are not specially trained and are prone to cause a car accident as much as any other motorist. If you were injured in a car accident caused by your Uber or Lyft driver, contact an experienced Main Line Philly Uber and Lyft accident lawyer.
The Reiff Law Firm knows the potential for danger that is possible with the use of ridesharing companies, and we are prepared to help you pursue compensation for an accident. You do not have to fight your injury case alone. For a free consultation to discuss your legal options, contact the Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940, or contact us online.
What to Do if You Were Injured in an Uber/Lyft Accident on The Main Line
When summoning a vehicle from a ridesharing application, few people expect the driver of the vehicle they will enter will cause a serious car crash. However, as mentioned, Uber and Lyft drivers are just as susceptible to cause an accident as any other person.
The first action you should take after an accident in a ridesharing car is to contact emergency medical services for your injuries and for any other party that may have been injured. It is also important to contact law enforcement so they can investigate the accident and provide you with a police report.
Next, you should ask for the negligent driver’s information, including:
- Driver’s license
- Contact information
- The insurance policy for their vehicle
- Which ridesharing application they were using at the time of the accident (if you were not a passenger in the vehicle)
- The make, model, and license plate of the vehicle
You should also take photographs that can help you prove your claim. For example, take photos of your injuries, the location of the accident, the damage to the vehicle, and any other relevant photos that can aid your case. You should also make a note of any adverse weather conditions that may have impacted the accident.
If anyone observed the accident and are willing to provide you with a statement, you should request their contact information. Once you are finished at the scene of the accident, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help with your case.
Recovering Compensation After a Ridesharing Car Accident
Uber and Lyft both have insurance policies in the event one of their drivers causes an accident. Each company has similar coverage that would provide an injured party with the following levels of coverage:
- $1,000,000 personal injury coverage per accident
- $1,000,000 property damage coverage per accident
- $1,000,000 uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
While this policy limit is generous, if you are severely injured and your injuries cannot be covered under the insurance coverage of the ridesharing company, you may have to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
It is important to note that Uber and Lyft treat their employees as contractors. This means that if a driver causes a serious accident while driving for Uber or Lyft, the company may try to avoid liability by stating that they cannot be held liable for the actions of a contractor. Our personal injury attorneys can help you determine the best way to proceed if an Uber or Lyft insurance policy does not cover your injuries.
When determining who should be held liable for your injuries, there are multiple scenarios that must be taken into account. For example, if an Uber driver had their application open, but they did not accept a ride when the car accident happened, this can affect whether Uber’s insurance policy covers them.
Alternatively, accepting a ride and having the passenger in the car when the accident happens will likely trigger Uber’s insurance coverage. There are other scenarios that could be addressed depending on the circumstances of your case, like whether the insurance will cover an off-duty accident with a pedestrian.
Despite the circumstances of your case, our experienced attorneys can help you determine who is liable for your injuries so that you can proceed to pursue compensation.
Work with Our Bala Cynwyd Car Accident Attorneys on Your Uber/Lyft Claim
If you or a family member was injured in a ridesharing car accident, consult with an experienced Philadelphia car accident attorney today. With decades of combined legal experience, the injury attorneys at the Reiff Law Firm are not afraid to help you fight against giant corporations like Uber or Lyft. You do not have to fight your case alone. To schedule a free legal consultation, contact the Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940.
