Getting injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft creates a confusing situation. You may be unsure who’s at fault or how to pursue compensation. Whether you were a rideshare passenger, another driver, a cyclist, or a pedestrian, you have rights under Ohio law. Filing a personal injury claim may help to cover your medical bills, lost income, and other damages tied to the crash.
Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy helps accident victims sort through the details and take action. Our rideshare accident lawyers in Toledo, Ohio, can review your case and determine who should be held accountable.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Toledo
Rideshare accidents involve unique legal and insurance issues that don’t apply to regular car crashes. Uber and Lyft drivers often use personal vehicles for commercial purposes, which triggers different coverage rules. These extra issues can complicate your personal injury claim if you don’t have legal guidance from someone who understands Ohio rideshare laws.
How Rideshare Insurance Works
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but this coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. The driver’s insurance coverage is often divided into three stages:
- When the Driver Is Not Logged Into the App: If the driver is not logged into the rideshare app at the time of the accident, they are usually considered to be using their vehicle for personal reasons. The rideshare company’s insurance does not apply.
- When the Driver Is Logged Into the App But Not Picking Up a Passenger: If the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request but has not accepted a ride, the rideshare company’s insurance can still cover the accident. Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage up to $50,000 per person and up to $100,000 per accident for bodily injuries caused by the driver.
- When the Driver Is Transporting a Passenger: If the driver is transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft offer full coverage through their commercial insurance policies. Coverage includes up to $1 million in liability for accidents that occur during an active trip.
In addition to liability coverage, Uber and Lyft may also provide coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorists, personal injury protection, MedPay, and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage. Coverage depends on the circumstances and the driver’s personal insurance.
Ohio’s Modified Comparative Negligence
In Ohio, the modified comparative negligence rule, Ohio Revised Code § 2315.33, applies to personal injury claims, including those involving rideshare accidents. Under this statute, an injured party can recover damages only if their share of fault is 50% or less.
If the injured party is found to be more than 50% at fault, they are barred from recovering any compensation. Below that, a party’s recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault—for example, a person who is 30% responsible would have their compensation reduced by 30%.
Rideshare accident lawyers play a crucial role in calculating percentages of fault through evidence gathering and analysis. They meticulously document all factors that might reduce their client’s percentage of fault while highlighting the negligence of other parties.
Common Rideshare Accident Injuries in Toledo
Even when you’re a passenger in the backseat of a rideshare vehicle, you can be at risk of serious injury. After an accident, getting medical attention quickly helps document what happened and supports your claim for compensation, regardless of who caused the crash.
Here are some of the injuries we commonly see in rideshare accident claims:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy can gather your medical records and bills to build a claim that reflects your full recovery needs. Our legal team holds rideshare drivers, companies, and other parties accountable when their negligence causes you harm and financial loss.
Who’s Responsible for Your Toledo Rideshare Accident?
Who’s at Fault?
Liability in a rideshare accident can be more complex than in a typical crash. The at-fault party may be the rideshare driver, another driver, or even a vehicle manufacturer. In some cases, Uber or Lyft may share responsibility.
What Caused the Accident?
Multiple factors can contribute to an accident involving rideshare vehicles. Drivers may be distracted by their apps, fatigued, or under the influence. Some speed or run traffic signals to meet ride quotas. Poor weather, road hazards, or mechanical failures may also contribute.
How We Determine Fault and Liability
Our Toledo rideshare accident attorneys gather evidence to build a strong claim. Evidence might include police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, photos of the scene, and driver app data. When needed, we work with accident reconstruction professionals who can clarify how the crash unfolded.
We Help You Pursue Compensation
Pursuing compensation after a rideshare accident can involve multiple insurance companies, complex policies, and legal delays. Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy handles every step of the process for you. We negotiate with the rideshare insurer and any other involved parties, and if necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to court to protect your rights.
You may be eligible to recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
We work to recover the full value of your damages, so you’re not left paying out of pocket. Plus, our No Fee Guarantee® means there are no upfront costs for our services—we only get paid if you get paid.
Contact Our Toledo Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Today
Rideshare accident claims involve unique insurance rules that most people don’t fully understand. Our team knows how to handle Uber and Lyft cases from start to finish. If you were injured, let us explain your options and fight for what you’re owed. Contact us today.
