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Protect Your Rights With A Louisville Rideshare Accident Attorney

The use of rideshares like Uber and Lyft means that rideshare accidents are also on the rise. A lot of people use rideshare apps to stay safe on the road. However, when the rideshare driver causes an accident because they are drowsy driving, drunk or drugged driving, or acting recklessly the ride is hardly safe.

Understanding when rideshare drivers are liable for the damages they cause in an accident can get complicated. Liability can focus on a driver doing something that caused a crash, or not doing something to avoid or prevent a crash. Liability can also lead to negligence. At T.J. Smith, Attorney at Law, in Louisville, our founding attorney has more than 30 years of experience advocating on behalf of accident victims in Kentucky. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, call accident lawyer T.J. Smith at 502-677-1429.

Does No-Fault Mean No Lawsuit?

No-fault simply means that you typically will file a claim with your own insurance company in a car crash. Your own insurance should cover your medical costs. Every crash and each injury is different, especially if your injury is significant and prevents you from working.

While Kentucky is a “no-fault” state, it does not mean that no driver is ever held accountable for their actions. When you use a rideshare service as a passenger, you may, if you are hurt, be able to file a claim with the rideshare driver’s insurance provider. Rideshare drivers are required to have insurance. Both main companies, Uber and Lyft, also have insurance – up to $1 million in coverage. So, if the driver’s insurance does not cover your losses, their employer’s insurance should. This is important in cases where the other driver does not have adequate insurance coverage.

Can You Sue Uber Or Lyft After A Crash?

If you are injured while in an Uber or Lyft vehicle, you can file a lawsuit. In fact, depending on the details of your case, you may be able to sue:

  • The drivers involved in the accident: If a driver was drunk, negligent, egregious or exhibited reckless behavior, you may be able to sue the drivers involved.
  • The rideshare company: If a rideshare company failed to do a background check, hired someone who was dangerous or failed to fire a dangerous driver, you may have a claim against the rideshare company.
  • A parts manufacturer: If a tire blows out or brakes fail and this causes a crash, you may have a product liability claim.
  • A municipality: If a roadway is not maintained and a chunk of asphalt or pothole causes a crash or injury, you may be able to sue the municipality in charge of maintenance.

This is why it’s in your best interest to speak with an experienced Louisville rideshare lawyer whenever you are hurt using a ridesharing service. There are many “moving parts” to a lawsuit. A personal injury attorney who understands car crashes, liability and negligence issues can offer the seasoned guidance you need.

What Types Of Insurance Issues Arise In A Rideshare Accident?

When you’re involved in a rideshare accident, sorting through the insurance issues can be confusing. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that cover their drivers, but the coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. The driver has to be logged into the rideshare app or else the driver’s personal insurance will apply. If the driver was logged in and waiting for a client, limited coverage from the rideshare company may apply. Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the car, the company provides more comprehensive coverage.

However, dealing with insurance claims can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. It can be difficult to understand which policy applies and to what extent. An experienced rideshare accident attorney can help you gather app activity records and insurance details to support your claim and sort out which insurance applies to what.

Are There Safety Precautions For Rideshare Riders In Kentucky?

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft conduct background checks on their drivers to enhance passenger safety. These checks typically include criminal history and driving record reviews. Additionally, drivers must meet certain requirements, such as having a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record and an insured vehicle that meets the company’s standards.

While rideshare companies take steps to ensure safety, you can also take precautions. Always verify the driver and vehicle details before getting into the car. Share your trip details with a friend or family member so they know your location. Trust your instincts and avoid rides if you feel uncomfortable.

How Uber And Lyft Have Increased Road Accidents

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft offer convenience, but it comes with a potentially high price. It turns out, these services have increased the number of annual traffic accidents, with some reports indicating that one-third of all Uber drivers have been involved in one or more car accidents.

There are numerous reasons for the increase in crashes, including:

  • Distracted driving: As part of their job, rideshare drivers may use their phones frequently when communicating with riders and picking up fares. Such phone use increases the risk of distracted driving accidents.
  • Road congestion: Since people frequently rely on rideshare services, the uptick in use can increase the total number of cars and trucks on the road, leading to substantial congestion. The result is often traffic backups, car accidents and related issues, such as aggressive driving by rideshare drivers who may prioritize their earnings over safety.
  • Fatigued driving: Rideshare drivers work long hours behind the wheel and can become exhausted. A fatigued driver who has been working all day long can cause a crash.

Not only are motor vehicle accidents a risk for rideshare passengers, but also for others who must share the road with them.

Most Common Injuries Resulting From An Uber Or Lyft Accident

Serious rideshare accidents can lead to a wide variety of injuries, some more serious than others. Common examples include:

  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Internal injuries and internal bleeding
  • Concussions and more serious traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Head and skull injuries
  • Severe cuts and lacerations
  • Burn injuries

Some of these injuries, such as spinal cord trauma, could lead to life-altering disabilities like paralysis, ushering in the possible need for long-term medical care.

What Rideshare Drivers Should Know About Accident-Related Injuries

Rideshare drivers who make negligent mistakes may be directly sued by injured parties. Examples of negligence include disobeying traffic signals, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, falling asleep behind the wheel or tailgating and driving aggressively.

At the same time, rideshare companies may be sued if they were involved or complicit. For example, companies that hire drivers with a dangerous driving record may be legally responsible for any victim injuries that arise as a result of a negligent accident.

When serious injuries occur in a rideshare accident, drivers could face legal ramifications, including arrest and civil lawsuits for financial compensation.

Talk With ‘Team T.J.’ Today!

We accept all personal injury cases on contingency. That means you will owe no attorney fees unless we obtain compensation for you. For a free consultation with an experienced rideshare attorney who has recovered more than $250 million in total compensation, send us a message. You can also call our office in Louisville at 502-677-1429.