Rideshare Accident Lawyer

With an estimated 1.7 million drivers and counting, Uber and Lyft are some of the biggest rideshare companies that allow people all over the world to get from one location to another without stepping foot behind the wheel of a car. While these companies often provide a safe means for getting to a person’s destination, if you are injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft or are injured when you are driving another car, you should seek medical and legal help as soon as possible. Things can become complicated depending on various factors, including which state you are in when the accident took place, how many people were involved in the accident (was it a 3-car pileup?), and when you are trying to figure out whose insurance will cover your injuries. When you were injured by an Uber or Lyft driver and want to file a claim, reach out to a trusted law office, such as Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C.

Are drivers considered to be employees? 

This is one of the factors that can complicate your claim. Uber and Lyft do not classify their drivers as employees but consider them to be independent contractors. This distinguishing factor can help rideshare companies avoid many expensive lawsuits. 

What should you do following an accident? 

Following an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, you should first call 9-1-1 if you believe that you or another person involved in the accident has been injured. This can help if you and emergency medical attention but it can also help when a police officer arrives to create a police report. If you are safe to move following the accident, you should: 

• Exchange information with the other driver like you would in any accident
• See if there are witnesses who saw what happened with your car accident and get their contact information 
• Take photographs or videos of the accident scene and of any injuries you or a passenger sustained
• Move your car out of the way so that you and other drivers do not become injured

Are there ways to report the accident?

It is best to seek help from a lawyer you can rely on, like a rideshare accident lawyer, so that they can direct you as to the best way to start a claim. In most cases, you will want to go to the rideshare company’s website and report the accident there. It will help to have a lawyer with you when speaking with the company or direct calls to go through your lawyer from the start. Your lawyer will be able to handle the negotiation process and know what kind of settlement will be reasonable given any property damage and the injuries you have suffered. Uber and Lyft’s liability insurances cover injuries if you were driving the other car or if you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft. Speak with your lawyer about the details of your case to learn how you may be able to get compensation after a rideshare accident caused your injuries.