Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are among Louisiana’s most popular modes of transportation. Unfortunately, as the number of rideshare vehicles on the road has increased, so has the number of accidents.
Whether they’re caused by a driver’s negligence, third-party involvement, or faulty vehicle maintenance, rideshare accidents and their aftermaths can be complex, especially when dealing with rideshare insurance policies. That’s why contacting the Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Dudley DeBosier is important to getting fair compensation.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
There are many causes of injury associated with Uber and Lyft vehicles. Sometimes, the accidents are linked directly to the rideshare driver’s actions, but other times, there are external factors.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver negligence and reckless driving: Rideshare drivers may speed, fail to obey traffic laws, or engage in dangerous behavior.
- Distracted driving and fatigue: Many Uber and Lyft drivers spend long hours on the road. This may lead to cell phone usage and fatigue that seriously impair their ability to operate their vehicle safely.
- Faulty vehicle maintenance and mechanical issues: Rideshare drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. Poor maintenance, such as defective brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents.
- Third-party driver involvement: Other drivers on the road can also cause accidents with rideshare vehicles. This makes proving liability even more complex.
These causes can all result in serious injuries, making it even more important to seek experienced legal help.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Uber and Lyft provide specific insurance coverage for their drivers, which differs from typical personal auto insurance. Understanding how these policies work is crucial when seeking compensation for injuries.
- Uber and Lyft insurance policies: Both companies offer liability coverage that applies during different stages of a rideshare trip.
- Rideshare insurance vs. personal auto insurance: Personal auto insurance generally does not cover accidents that occur while a driver is working for the rideshare company. This is why the companies offer supplemental insurance.
- Coverage during different stages of a trip: The level of coverage varies depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger.
Having an attorney familiar with these different policies and complexities can help you receive the appropriate compensation for whatever stage of the rideshare trip the accident occurred.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Rideshare Accidents
Like any other car accident, Uber and Lyft collisions can cause a wide range of serious injuries. Some of the most common injuries we see every day are:
- Whiplash and neck injuries: Rear-end collisions often result in neck injuries and long-term mobility issues.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions: Head injuries (even mild ones) can have serious ongoing effects. They can include cognitive and long-term disability.
- Broken bones and fractures: Impact with another vehicle or object during a rideshare accident often leads to broken bones (arms, legs, ribs, etc.)
- Internal injuries and organ damage: Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, may not be immediately obvious but can be life-threatening.
These injuries often require significant medical attention and can leave victims with long-term effects — and that’s why it’s critical to seek substantial compensation.
Proving Liability in a Rideshare Accident
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be more complex than in a typical car accident. To build a solid case, it’s essential to gather strong evidence. Key evidence includes:
- Collecting evidence from the accident scene: Photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries can help establish the details of the crash.
- Dashcam footage, witness statements, and police reports: These can provide critical insights into what happened before and during the accident.
A lawyer experienced in rideshare cases can help gather this evidence, work with accident reconstruction experts, and prove that negligence occurred. This process considers all factors contributing to the accident are explored thoroughly.
Compensation for Rideshare Accident Victims
Victims of rideshare accidents in Louisiana may be entitled to various types of compensation. Compensation to help cover costs of recovery may include:
- Medical bills: You’ll need compensation for both current and future medical expenses related to the accident, such as surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and future lost earning ability.
- Pain and suffering: This accounts for compensation needed for the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Damage to your vehicle or other personal property lost or damaged because of the accident may be included in your compensation claim.
An experienced rideshare accident lawyer will fight to ensure that you receive full compensation for all damages that apply.
Why Choose Dudley DeBosier for Your Rideshare Accident Case?
Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers have extensive experience handling Uber and Lyft accident cases throughout Louisiana. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges that come with these types of claims.
The complex insurance policies and dealing with corporate legal teams are a couple of aspects of the process that you want a strong team like ours to handle. We know rideshare accident law, provide personalized attention to each client, and have a proven track record of winning significant compensation in rideshare injury cases.
Contact Our Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, get help now. Contact Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We’ll explain the legal options associated with a rideshare accident claim and fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries.