Many North Carolinians use Uber and Lyft in their commutes to work, while they travel, for special events, and more. What happens if you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? These motor vehicle accidents are often more complicated because of questions about liability and insurance coverage for damages.
Always speak to our Cornelius Uber/Lyft accident lawyer if you’re injured in a rideshare accident to ensure a favorable case outcome. Horton & Mendez, Injury & Car Accident Attorneys will review your Uber/Lyft accident details and determine your legal options for compensation.
Why Choose Us?
Horton & Mendez, Injury & Car Accident Attorneys, a trusted law firm in Cornelius, excels in Uber and Lyft accident claims, boasting a proven track record of success. Our experienced rideshare accident attorneys, including former insurance defense lawyers, understand the tactics insurance companies use to reduce payouts. We fight aggressively to maximize your compensation for injuries in Uber and Lyft accidents. Recent successful cases involving vehicle crashes and injuries include:
- $8 million tractor-trailer accident settlement
- $350,000 tractor-trailer accident settlement
- $300,000 car accident verdict
- $100,000 motorcycle accident settlement
- $95,000 rear-end collision settlement
Our Cornelius rideshare accident lawyers offer free consultations to evaluate your case and determine negligence. If your claim is valid, we will negotiate relentlessly with insurers to recover the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact a Cornelius Uber/Lyft accident lawyer at (980) 414-5755 to start pursuing the compensation you’re entitled to.
Who Is Liable For An Uber/Lyft Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on several factors, particularly the driver’s status with Uber or Lyft at the time of the accident. The rideshare driver may be liable, but other possibilities include the rideshare company, another driver, or a combination of them. North Carolina operates a fault-based system for determining liability in motor vehicle accidents. So, your Uber/Lyft attorney must determine who caused your injuries.
Rideshare Driver Was Off-Duty
Was the Uber or Lyft driver off-duty at the time of the crash? The law considers the rideshare driver a private motorist in this situation, so their personal auto insurance would cover your damages.
State law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage.
If the off-duty driver causes an accident, their insurance is responsible for covering damages, and neither Uber nor Lyft bears liability. However, most typical auto insurance policies exclude coverage for commercial driving, which may complicate your claim. Our experienced Uber/Lyft crash lawyer can provide you with guidance.
Rideshare Driver Was Logged Into Rideshare App
Was the driver logged into the Uber or Lyft app but waiting for a ride request? In that case, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage, which applies only if the driver’s personal insurance does not provide coverage.
This coverage includes $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, as well as $25,000 for property damage.
If the driver causes an accident during this period, they are primarily liable, but the rideshare company’s insurance acts as a backup. This limited coverage can be insufficient for serious injuries, prompting victims to explore other liable parties, such as other drivers involved or underinsured motorist policies.
Rideshare Driver Was En Route Or Transporting A Fare
When the driver is en route to pick up a passenger or transporting a passenger, North Carolina law requires Uber and Lyft to carry a minimum of $1.5 million in liability insurance per accident.
If the rideshare driver is at fault, the Uber or Lyft policy covers damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
For passengers injured in a rideshare vehicle, this $1.5 million policy applies, and Uber or Lyft’s underinsured motorist coverage, up to $1 million, may also be available if another driver caused the accident and lacks sufficient insurance. The rideshare company’s high-limit policies make it critical to establish the driver’s status to maximize compensation.
Multiple Parties At Fault
Liability for a rideshare accident is more complex when multiple parties contribute to the crash.
North Carolina’s joint and several liability rule allows you to seek compensation from all responsible parties, such as another motorist and the rideshare driver.
However, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. The companies argue they are not vicariously liable for the driver’s negligence. This classification can limit direct claims against the companies unless evidence shows they failed to meet regulatory obligations, such as conducting proper background checks or vehicle inspections. If the rideshare company’s negligence contributed to the accident, victims may have a claim against the company itself.
Always hire our skilled Cornelius Uber/Lyft accident lawyers to determine fault in these often complex cases. We will determine who caused the accident and which insurance policy should cover your losses.
What Is Your Rideshare Accident Claim Worth?
Your Uber or Lyft accident claim can be worth thousands or millions of dollars, depending on the circumstances. Critical factors in determining your claim value are:
- How much are your medical expenses? Severe injuries, such as brain trauma or spinal cord injury, may incur millions in medical costs, which will increase your claim’s value.
- How much work time did you lose? A serious injury may mean you’re out of work for months, years, or forever. On the other hand, a moderate injury may mean a few weeks off work.
- What is your level of pain and suffering? More severe injuries incur more pain and suffering, as well as mental anguish.
- How much insurance is available? Liability often plays a critical factor in rideshare accidents because commercial Uber/Lyft policies have higher policy limits.
Contact Our Cornelius Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer
Being hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. Who is to blame, and who should cover your damages? After getting medical attention, call Horton & Mendez immediately. Our compassionate rideshare accident attorneys will review your case to determine liability and insurance coverage.
Contact Horton & Mendez, Injury & Car Accident Attorneys today for a complimentary consultation at (980) 414-5755.
