What to Do if Your Uber or Lyft Driver Causes a Car Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident caused by an Uber or Lyft driver, an Uber and Lyft attorney can help protect your rights. These cases involve specific insurance rules and liability issues that differ from typical car accidents. Legal guidance is crucial to properly handle claims and explore compensation options.
Schefman & Associates is a trusted law firm based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. We assist clients injured in rideshare accidents by providing experienced legal support tailored to Uber and Lyft cases. Our goal is to help you understand your options and advocate for the compensation appropriate to your situation after a crash.
The Basics of Rideshare Accident Claims in Michigan
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Michigan. However, accidents involving these drivers present legal challenges that require professional knowledge. Insurance coverage varies based on whether the driver is logged in, waiting for a ride, en route to a pickup, or carrying a passenger.
An experienced Uber and Lyft attorney, such as Attorney Bryan L. Schefman, will review the specifics of your accident to determine liability and potential compensation. Acting quickly after a collision is important to preserve your rights.
Insurance in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Insurance is one of the most critical issues in a rideshare accident claim. Uber and Lyft drivers carry personal auto insurance policies that typically don’t apply while working for the company. Instead, the rideshare company’s insurance coverage takes effect when drivers are logged into their apps.
Michigan law requires Uber and Lyft to provide liability insurance that varies based on the driver’s status. When waiting for a ride request, lower coverage limits apply. When en route to pick up or transporting a passenger, higher insurance limits apply. Your Uber and Lyft attorney will identify the correct insurer and policy limits relevant to your case.
Insurance adjusters for both the rideshare company and the driver may attempt to deny or limit claims. This is why professional legal guidance is essential. An Uber and Lyft attorney works to make sure your claim is handled properly and fairly by all insurers involved.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident
The actions you take right after a rideshare accident can affect the success of your claim. Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately if medical help is needed.
Collect the Uber or Lyft driver’s name, phone number, vehicle make and model, license plate number, and insurance details. Ask for the rideshare company’s contact information as well. If there are witnesses, get their names and phone numbers.
Take photographs or videos of the accident scene. Document vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can support your case later. Filing a police report is essential, as insurance companies rely heavily on official documentation.
Even if you feel fine, visit a medical professional promptly. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal damage, may not be immediately obvious but still require treatment. Keep detailed records of all medical visits, prescriptions, and treatments.
Contact an Uber and Lyft attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. Early legal consultation helps protect your rights and prevents mistakes that could jeopardize your claim.
Liability in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Determining fault in a rideshare accident involves many factors. The driver may be responsible if they were negligent, distracted, speeding, or violating traffic laws. The rideshare company could also share liability if it failed to properly vet the driver or maintain vehicles.
Liability may extend to other motorists if their actions contributed to the accident. Michigan law requires rideshare companies to carry insurance coverage that applies differently depending on whether the driver is waiting for rides, en route, or carrying passengers.
An Uber and Lyft attorney will analyze police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to establish liability. This thorough review helps identify all potentially responsible parties and improves the chances of recovering fair compensation.
Handling Insurance Claims After a Rideshare Accident
Insurance claims after Uber or Lyft crashes often involve multiple insurers. The driver’s personal auto insurer may deny coverage because rideshare driving is considered commercial activity when logged in. Uber and Lyft’s policies then become the primary source of coverage.
Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after the accident to record statements. It’s important not to provide any recorded statement or sign documents without first consulting your Uber and Lyft attorney. Anything you say could be used to minimize your claim.
Maintain organized records of all medical bills, repair estimates, correspondence with insurers, and related expenses. Don’t accept settlement offers without legal review. An Uber and Lyft attorney helps clients handle negotiations, protecting their rights against unfair insurance practices.
Potential Compensation Available in Uber and Lyft Accident Cases
Victims of Uber or Lyft accidents may pursue compensation for a variety of damages. These include:
Medical expenses such as emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and medication
Lost income due to missed work or reduced earning capacity
Property damage, covering the repair or replacement of vehicles or personal belongings
Additionally, victims may be entitled to damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and permanent disability resulting from the crash.
An Uber and Lyft attorney will calculate the full scope of your losses and advocate for maximum compensation. They’ll also consider future medical costs or long-term effects that may impact your quality of life.
The Legal Process for a Michigan Rideshare Accident Case
After you hire an Uber and Lyft attorney, your case will enter the investigation phase. The attorney reviews police reports, medical records, vehicle damage assessments, and other evidence. Witnesses may be interviewed to strengthen your claim.
If appropriate, your attorney will file an insurance claim. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, a lawsuit may be necessary. During discovery, both sides exchange information relevant to the case. Settlement negotiations continue throughout this period.
If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to trial, where a judge or jury determines fault and damages. Your attorney will represent your interests and present your evidence. Throughout, you’ll receive updates and guidance on your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to choose the right attorney for a rideshare accident?
The right attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your Uber or Lyft accident claim. An experienced lawyer will understand the challenges of Michigan law and how it applies specifically to rideshare cases.
What qualifications should I look for in an Uber or Lyft accident attorney?
Look for an attorney with proven experience handling rideshare accident claims. They should be knowledgeable about Michigan’s legal process, insurance rules, and liability issues unique to Uber and Lyft cases.
How important is communication when working with a rideshare accident attorney?
Transparent communication is key. A quality attorney will keep you informed throughout the case, explain each step clearly, and be available to answer your questions.
Will the attorney handle my case personally?
A good attorney will manage your case directly rather than handing it off to a less experienced associate. Make sure to confirm this during your consultation.
What should I do right after a rideshare accident?
Take immediate action by documenting the accident, seeking medical treatment, and contacting a qualified attorney. This helps protect your rights and strengthens your potential claim.
How can a rideshare accident attorney help me with the stress of an accident?
An experienced attorney won't only pursue financial compensation but also help reduce your stress by guiding you through the legal process and making sure your case is handled properly.
Take Action to Protect Your Rights Today
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. At Schefman & Associates in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, we serve Wayne County, Oakland County, Macomb County, Washtenaw County, and Genesee County, guiding you through the claim process every step of the way. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
