What Are Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents?

Uber and Lyft drivers aren’t immune to the same risks and behaviors that lead to everyday car crashes. Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents in Cleveland include:

• Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers often rely on GPS and smartphone apps while driving, which can take their attention off the road.
• Fatigue: Many drivers try to complete as many pickups as possible during a single shift. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to drowsy driving, delayed reactions, and poor decision-making, which can all increase the risk of a crash.
• Speeding: In an effort to complete more rides and increase earnings, some drivers may speed or drive aggressively.
• Inexperience: Not all rideshare drivers are familiar with Cleveland’s roads or are experienced in navigating heavy traffic safely.
• Driving Under the Influence: Some rideshare drivers may operate a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Weather or Road Conditions: Icy roads, construction zones, or poor visibility can contribute to rideshare accidents, especially when drivers are rushing to complete a job or aren’t used to driving in those conditions.
• Other Drivers: Rideshare vehicles can be struck by other negligent drivers on the road, putting rideshare drivers and their passengers in danger of suffering serious injuries.

Regardless of the cause of your rideshare accident, you may have a claim for compensation if you were injured because of someone else’s negligence. But first, you need to determine who is at fault for the crash.

Who Might Be Liable for My Rideshare Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex because multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances.

• The Other Driver: If another driver caused the crash, you may be able to file a claim against their auto insurance provider.
• The Rideshare Driver: If your Uber or Lyft driver caused the crash through negligent behavior, you may have a claim against them personally, depending on their auto insurance coverage.
• Uber or Lyft’s Insurance: Both Uber and Lyft provide third-party liability coverage when a driver is actively using the app and working. This coverage can range from limited to $1 million, depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride, en route to pick someone up, or had a passenger in the car.
• Uber or Lyft Themselves: In rare cases, you may be able to hold the rideshare company liable directly. This can include if they negligently retained a driver with a dangerous history or failed to follow proper safety protocols.

It’s not easy to determine liability in the immediate aftermath of a crash, and it’s even more difficult when no one admits fault. However, a thorough investigation can reveal who’s liable—and sometimes, it may be multiple parties.

What Compensation Can I Receive for My Damages?

If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both your financial and personal losses. This could include:

• Medical expenses (including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation)
• Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Property damage (if your own vehicle or belongings were involved)
• Wrongful death damages if a loved one was killed in a rideshare crash

As with all types of auto accident claims, rideshare claims often involve insurance companies offering the smallest amount of money possible—or even denying claims altogether. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced Cleveland Uber and Lyft attorney on your side right away who can calculate your damages and negotiate a full and fair settlement for you.

How Can a Lawyer Help With My Rideshare Accident Claim?

Rideshare accident claims can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when you’re trying to recover from serious injuries. Here’s how a lawyer can help:

Provide Peace of Mind: With an experienced law firm handling the details of your case, you can focus on healing and getting your life back.

Investigate the Accident: Your attorney will gather evidence, review rideshare app data, police reports, witness statements, and video footage to build a strong case.

Determine Liability: They’ll identify all liable parties and applicable insurance policies to maximize your compensation.

Handle Insurance Negotiations: Insurance companies, including those used by Uber and Lyft, are known for offering lowball settlements. A lawyer will fight for the full amount you deserve.

Protect Your Rights: If your claim is denied or undervalued and negotiations stall or cease, your lawyer can take your case to court and advocate for you every step of the way.

Contact Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t try to navigate the legal process alone. At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, our Cleveland rideshare accident lawyers have the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve.

We’ve helped injured victims in Cleveland and throughout Ohio for over 90 years, and we’re ready to stand up for you. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can put our experience to work for your family.