If you live anywhere near a large town or major city, you might have used a rideshare company like Uber or Lyft at some point or another. These rideshare companies operate in hundreds of cities throughout the U.S., and in other countries.
As both companies have grown, so too has the number of collisions involving Lyft or Uber. If you were injured in a rideshare accident, you might have several questions about the legal process to recover monetary compensation. Who is responsible to pay for your medical treatment and how do you file?
Uber and Lyft have an exceptional legal team who work 24/7. It is very difficult to reach any one, and to complicate matters, they have very detailed insurance policies, procedures, and disclaimers. This means that filing a claim against Uber or Lyft is not exactly easy, especially without a rideshare lawyer.
What You Should Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident as a Passenger
If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident, the first thing you should do is call the police. Once the officers arrive, they will begin to take control of the scene and ask everyone involved for their contact details. If possible take photos of the scene with your own phone and save a screenshot of your ride request as well as the receipt for the transaction.
Getting medical treatment should be your next step. This might have come first if your injuries were severe and you were left incapacitated or unconscious. Once you have received medical care, it may be in your best interest to call a rideshare accident lawyer who can explain to your legal options and what you might expect with the process.
Suing Uber or Lyft
Uber and Lyft uses independent contractors rather than employees. This means that neither company can be held liable for a negligent driver. It may be possible to file a lawsuit (not the same as a personal injury claim) against the negligent driver or another liable party. This is determined on a case by case basis and can be further discussed with your lawyer.
When a Pedestrian has Been Injured By a Rideshare Company
Pedestrians can fall victim to Uber or Lyft drivers. If you were struck by a rideshare vehicle as a pedestrian, you may be able to seek compensation through the company’s third party liability insurance. This insurance policy offers up to $1 million to pedestrians or occupants of other cars who have been injured by their drivers who were on their way to picking a rider up or are transporting a rider to a destination.
Recoverable Damages in a Rideshare Accident
Depending on the circumstances of your case you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical treatment
- Prospective medical treatment
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- + More
Talk with a Rideshare Lawyer Today
A car accident lawyer Des Moines, IA trusts can understand how difficult this situation might be for you and would like to help. Call one today to discuss your rideshare accident. Thank you to our friends at Johnston | Martineau, LLP for their insight into rideshare car accidents.