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Practice Areas

Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? The Mike Hostilo Law Firm can help you understand your legal options,

identify available insurance coverage, and pursue compensation for your injuries.

Legal Help After an Uber or Lyft Accident

A rideshare crash can leave passengers, drivers, and people in other vehicles facing medical bills, missed work, and questions about who is responsible. The Mike Hostilo Law Firm helps injured people investigate the collision, document their losses, and evaluate potential claims. Coverage can depend on the driver’s activity in the app, the cause of the crash, and the policies in effect.
Front-damaged red car and side-damaged silver car crashed on a rural road with debris.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

With ridesharing services, there is naturally less oversight. Following an accident, there is no need to explain things to the boss or worry about being grounded. As such, drivers may take chances that they wouldn’t ordinarily choose if working for a traditional taxi company leading to accidents due to:
  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Operating under the influence
  • Making unsafe lane changes
  • Pulling out in front of other vehicles
Two cars crashed

Fatigued Drivers: A Common Cause of Ridesharing Accidents

Uber, Lyft, and vanpooling services are often part of what is known as the “gig economy.” In other words, drivers are free agents who may work another job in addition to freelancing for ridesharing companies. Many accidents result from tired, overworked drivers who are merely trying to earn a few extra dollars.

 

Drivers may also feel pressure from the ridesharing companies themselves. That’s because the more their operators earn, the more money the company makes. You don’t need an experienced rideshare injury attorney to know that this can naturally increase the odds of an accident.

Accidents due to Mechanical Failures

Uber and Lyft both require applicants to have their vehicles inspected before they can download their apps and begin making money. Drivers must then submit to an annual inspection to continue working. In the interim, many fail to perform the required maintenance on their vehicles. Some do not have enough time between all of their other responsibilities, while others want to keep as much of their earnings as possible.

Knowing whether or not an accident was due to faulty maintenance can be tricky. A rideshare accident lawyer may ask for maintenance reports or hire an accident reconstruction specialist to help them make this determination.

Which Insurance May Cover a Rideshare Accident?

Potential coverage may include the at-fault driver’s policy, insurance maintained by the rideshare platform, and other applicable policies. Coverage depends on fault, the driver’s app status, state law, and policy terms.

An attorney can review trip records and insurance documents to identify possible sources of recovery. Being involved in a rideshare crash does not automatically make the platform legally responsible.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Rideshare Accident?

Depending on the facts and applicable law, a claim may include medical expenses, future treatment needs, lost income, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering.

The amount available depends on the evidence, responsibility for the crash, and insurance coverage. Punitive damages are available only in limited circumstances under applicable law; a serious injury alone does not establish eligibility.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

  • Seek medical attention and call emergency services when needed.
  • Report the collision to the police and the rideshare platform.
  • Save trip details, photos, witness contacts, and insurance information.
  • Keep medical records, bills, and communications about the crash.
  • Speak with an attorney about your options before accepting a settlement.

Practice Areas

With over 30 years of experience and tens of thousands of clients served,

The Mike Hostilo Law Firm

is the go-to for justice. When you need someone on your side, we’ve got your back. With You, for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a lawsuit against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company?
Can I file a lawsuit against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company?
How are damages calculated in a rideshare accident case?
How do I determine liability in a rideshare accident case?
How do I prove liability in a Lyft accident case?
What evidence should I collect after a rideshare accident?
What should I ask a potential Lyft accident lawyer during a consultation?
What should I do if the Lyft or Uber driver was uninsured?
What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident?
Answer
Rideshare Accident
Yes, in some cases, you can file a lawsuit against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company. Liability depends on the driver’s actions and the rideshare company’s policies. Your attorney will determine the appropriate parties to sue based on the circumstances of the accident.
Answer
Rideshare Accident
Damages in a rideshare accident case include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The calculation depends on the extent of your injuries, liability, and various factors. A rideshare accident attorney can help you assess and calculate your damages accurately.
Answer
Rideshare Accident
Determining liability in a rideshare accident case can be complex. Liability can rest with the rideshare driver, another driver, or a combination of both. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances, collect evidence, and assess factors such as negligence, traffic laws, and insurance policies to establish liability.
Answer
Rideshare Accident
To prove liability in a Lyft accident case, your attorney will use evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, photos, and medical records. They’ll also investigate the driver’s actions, adherence to traffic laws, and any company policies that may be relevant.
Answer
Rideshare Accident
Collecting evidence is crucial for your case. You should gather:
  • Police report
  • Witness statements
  • Photos of the accident scene and damages
  • Medical records
  • Rideshare company records
  • Communication records with the rideshare driver and company
  • Any available video footage
Answer
Rideshare Accident
During a consultation with a Lyft accident lawyer, ask questions like:
  • How experienced are you in handling rideshare accident cases?
  • What is your fee structure, and do you work on a contingency basis?
  • Can you provide references or case examples?
  • How do you plan to approach my specific case?
  • What is the expected timeline for my case?
Answer
Rideshare Accident
If the Lyft or Uber driver was uninsured, you may still have options for compensation. Both rideshare companies typically have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect passengers. Additionally, your own insurance policy may provide coverage for such situations. Consult with a rideshare accident attorney to explore your options.
Answer
Rideshare Accident
After a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and follow these steps:
  • Ensure everyone’s safety and seek medical attention if necessary.
  • Call the police to report the accident.
  • Exchange information with the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses.
  • Document the accident scene with photos and notes.
  • Notify your rideshare company (Uber, Lyft) about the accident.
  • Do not admit fault or discuss the accident extensively with others.
  • Seek legal advice from a rideshare accident attorney

Wondering if You Were Owed Money From Your Accident?

Are you unsure if you have a case or not? Even if the insurance companies tell you you don’t have a case, if we think that you do, we will fight to make sure you have medical attention and the compensation you deserve. The Mike Hostilo Law Firm’s record of results is proof that we’ve fought and won cases that the insurance companies tried to dismiss. Fill out this two-minute form for a free case evaluation. Our record of results of our Phenix City injury attorneys is proof that we’ve fought and won cases that the insurance companies tried to dismiss. Fill out this two-minute form for a free case evaluation.

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If you think you are in need of a wrongful death attorney, motorcycle accident lawyer, car accident attorney, or a birth injury attorney? Call us 24/7 The consultation is always FREE!

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