Ride Sharing Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Ridesharing Uber Lyft

Ridesharing services such as Lyft and Uber are garnering major market share over taxis.  Ridesharing services offer prompt, affordable transportation service that can be easily ordered and paid for via smart phone apps.  Riders can select the specific vehicles and drivers after reviewing driver ratings on the app.

It’s easy to find ridesharing services in most cities and towns throughout the United States.  Along with the ease of service and payment, ridesharing services make it so simple to catch a ride, they are expected to help reduce the number of drunk driving-related accidents and fatalities.

Ridesharing Service Accidents

While there are great benefits to using ridesharing services, driving safety and vehicle accidents are a concern.  Several Uber and Lyft drivers have been in accidents while transporting riders.

Who is Responsible?

If you are riding in a vehicle that was in a crash, the driver who caused the crash may be held responsible for any injuries to you or others because of the crash.

Uber and Lyft both have liability and uninsured motorist policies that will cover the passenger if the driver is at fault, or even if the driver is not at fault, but has insufficient coverage.

What to do if you were in a Lyft or Uber accident

If you were in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft vehicle or if you were hit by a ridesharing vehicle, we recommend you follow this protocol:

  • Call 911 immediately to request emergency medical services.
  • Provide a summary of the accident and injuries to police and EMS/Fire Rescue. Ask for the police accident report and case number.
  • Once you’ve received medical treatment, take photos of the vehicle damage and the positioning (including license plate). Take notes on what happened, the road conditions, and vehicle condition. Get the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any witnesses.
  • Once you leave the accident scene or the hospital, contact experienced attorneys such as Goldman and Daszkal, P.A. at (954) 428-9333 for a free consultation.
  • Contact your insurance company to report that you were in a vehicle accident. IMPORTANT: Set up your claim by providing a summary of the accident and location of your injury. DO NOT allow them to take a recorded statement. Do not discuss the accident details nor fault with anyone else.
  • Avoid answering calls that are not from your ACTUAL LAWYER. Representatives may attempt to contact you. DO NOT DISCUSS ANYTHING about the ACCIDENT. Soliciting accident victims is illegal!
  • When you meet with your attorney, bring the photos, notes, witness contact information, case number, police accident report, and any communications you received from insurance companies. Additionally, bring any bills related to EMS, hospitals, healthcare professionals, medicines or medical treatment that you received since the accident as well as damage estimates or receipts from vehicle repairs.

The good news is that most Uber and Lyft contractors are safe drivers.  Accidents are not frequent.  Be prepared by following the tips above.

Also, before you take a ridesharing service or allow your teen to do so, be sure to review this important post about ridesharing personal safety.  

Goldman & Daszkal, P.A.

Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout the state of Florida.  The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work.  Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury.  For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.