Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers

Monmouth County Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide customers with a convenient and affordable transportation option. However, in recent years, there has been an uptick in lawsuits filed against Uber and Lyft over a range of allegations, from improper worker classification to negligent driving behaviors by drivers that have resulted in serious car accidents. If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, determining liability and recovering the damages that you are entitled to can be a complicated process since ridesharing drivers are considered independent contractors as opposed to employees of the ridesharing company. The Monmouth County Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC will protect your legal rights, identify all liable parties, and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents?

In order to become an Uber or Lyft driver, motorists simply need a valid driver’s license, a vehicle that meets the rideshare company’s requirements, a clean driving record, and a background check. This means that Uber and Lyft drivers have the same driving qualifications as any other motorist. This also means that they are prone to some of the same negligent driving behavior that can result in serious car accidents. The following are examples of some of the most common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents:

Distracted Driving: This is a common problem among rideshare drivers. In addition to other distractions like phone calls and text messages, Uber and Lyft drivers are constantly checking the app for ride requests for new customers. When these distractions take the driver’s attention away from the road for even a matter of a few seconds, this can have devastating consequences if there are other cars, cyclists, or pedestrians in the vicinity.
Drowsy Driving: Uber and Lyft drivers often work long hours to make ends meet. In some cases, drivers work for ridesharing companies as a second job to supplement their income. As a result, drivers are often exhausted and function on very little sleep. This can cause slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and difficulty concentrating. In extreme cases, the driver may fall asleep at the wheel.
Impaired Driving: If an Uber or Lyft driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, impairments can include poor judgment, reduced coordination, slower reaction times, and impaired vision, all of which can significantly increase the risk of a serious car accident. Drunk driving is also illegal, so the driver could face serious legal penalties.
Aggressive Driving: Uber and Lyft drivers must obey the rules of the road at all times and make safety a priority, particularly when there are customers in the vehicle. Speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes, and cutting off other drivers are examples of aggressive driving behaviors that can increase the risk of a car accident.
Inclement Weather: Rideshare drivers may not be able to control the weather, but they are expected to take the necessary safety precautions when inclement weather causes road conditions to become hazardous.

What Are Common Injuries Caused by Uber and Lyft Accidents?

Uber and Lyft accidents are like any other car accident in that they can result in serious injuries. Depending on the type of accident and the severity of the crash, injuries can range from minor cuts and scrapes to life-threatening injuries and fatalities. The following are examples of common injuries that can occur in an Uber or Lyft accident:

- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- PTSD

What Steps Should I Take if I Am Involved in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

If you are involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, it is important that you keep the following tips in mind:

Call 911. Report the accident to dispatch immediately. The responding police officer will speak to all parties involved and write a police report that provides a summary of their investigation. If there are injuries, notify dispatch so they can send an ambulance to the scene.
Seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries seem relatively minor, it is important that you are examined by a healthcare provider. If you fail to do so, an undiagnosed injury could become more serious and difficult to treat. In addition, this could have a negative impact on a personal injury claim.
Collect evidence. Take pictures of the accident scene, including your injuries, the position of the vehicles, and any debris or skid marks on the road. Collect witness statements from people who saw the accident happen.
Report the accident to Uber or Lyft. Accident reporting forms are available on the Uber and Lyft websites. You may be contacted by the rideshare company for a statement. It is highly recommended that you avoid talking to someone from Uber or Lyft until you talk to a lawyer.
Contact the Monmouth County Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC. We will help you navigate the claims process and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve.

How Do I Recover Damages for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident while you were a passenger, there are a number of options for recovering damages.

First, you should file a claim with the Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance. However, most Uber and Lyft drivers do not have a commercial insurance policy or a provision in their policy that covers passengers who were injured while they were providing a ridesharing service. If the other motorist involved in the accident was at fault, you may file a claim with their insurer and a personal injury lawsuit if they are unwilling to reach a settlement. If your injuries are fairly minor, this may be sufficient compensation. However, if your injuries are more severe, you may need to file a claim against the rideshare company’s third-party liability insurance.

Uber and Lyft both provide up to $1 million for injuries, although this coverage only takes effect when all other insurance sources have been exhausted. The Monmouth County Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeny & Wells, LLC will identify all sources of compensation and negotiate the best possible settlement.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?

If you intend to file a personal injury claim after being injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you must file your claim within two years from the date of the accident. If you miss the filing deadline, your claim will likely be denied, and you will be unable to recover any damages. Your Uber and Lyft accident lawyer will ensure that your claim is filed well before the statute of limitations expires.