What Damages Are Recoverable in an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?
Various forms of compensation may be available in an Uber or Lyft accident claim. Common types of recoverable damages include:
- Lost income
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Future treatment costs
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
The exact damages depend on the severity of the injuries, the circumstances of the crash, and the insurance coverage involved. Our attorney can assess every avenue for financial recovery to pursue a settlement that reflects both direct and indirect losses.
How Does Insurance Coverage Work in a Rideshare Accident?
Both Uber and Lyft are required to carry up to $1 million in liability insurance. However, this coverage only applies in certain circumstances and is structured around the rideshare driver’s status or “driving period.” These include:
Period 0
The driver is logged out of the app and is unavailable to accept rides. The driver’s primary insurance is typically the primary coverage in the event of a crash. The rideshare company’s insurance does not apply.
Period 1
The driver is logged into the app, but has not accepted a ride yet. The rideshare company’s insurance may provide limited contingent liability coverage after an accident if the rideshare driver’s insurance does not cover it.
Period 2
The driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger. The rideshare company’s full commercial coverage generally begins in this period.
Period 3
The driver is actively transporting the passenger in the vehicle. The rideshare company’s commercial insurance is usually the primary source of coverage.
Common Injuries in Uber & Lyft Accidents
Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of serious injuries, such as:
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
- Fractures and broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- PTSD and psychological trauma
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
No matter the severity of your injuries, our attorney can work tirelessly to recover a settlement that reflects the full impact of the accident on your life.
How Long Do I Have to File an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for Uber and Lyft accident claims is three years from the date of the accident (C.R.S. § 13-80-101). However, this only applies to injuries arising from the use or operation of a motor vehicle.
If the accident results in a fatality, the deadline for filing a wrongful death claim is reduced to two years (C.R.S. § 13-80-102). There is an exception for wrongful death claims arising from hit-and-run accidents, which are subject to an extended four-year statute (C.R.S. § 13-80-102(2)).
Our attorney is well versed in these legal nuances to help you complete the necessary forms, file a timely claim within the correct deadline, and represent your best interests while you focus on healing.
How Is Fault Determined in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Fault in a rideshare accident is determined by examining negligence and responsibility, such as whether the driver was distracted, speeding, impaired, or failed to follow traffic laws. Third-party motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and even government entities can also share fault, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
Rideshare companies often try to evade liability by disputing the driver’s status, questioning fault, or limiting payouts, making it crucial to seek legal guidance. We can carefully investigate the crash, review app records and police reports, interview witnesses, and communicate with insurers to hold responsible parties accountable.
Do I Need an Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer?
Accident claims involving rideshare vehicles are more complicated and challenging than standard car accident claims, making it critical to have an Uber and Lyft accident attorney on your side. Some important reasons to work with Justice Now Injury Lawyers include:
- Navigating complex liability. Rideshare companies classify employees as independent contractors to minimize liability.We have a deep understanding of complex insurance periods, employment classifications, and comparative negligence laws to protect your rights and bring negligent parties to justice.
- Investigating the accident. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice. Our firm has a vast network of professional contacts and resources to support your claim with expert statements, analyze driver logs and accident reports, collect medical records, and present a compelling case.
- Negotiating with insurance companies. Insurers have a reputation for minimizing or denying payouts altogether. We never hesitate to stand up to powerful corporations and prepare every case for trial. We can negotiate a favorable outcome and prevent you from settling for less than you deserve.
- Safeguarding your rights. We can work diligently to recover a comprehensive settlement that covers your current and future care needs while aggressively protecting your rights against greedy insurance companies, giving you peace of mind that your case is in trusted hands.
Contact Our Uber & Lyft Accident Attorney in Denver Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side who understands the complexities of ride-share claims. Our Denver Uber & Lyft accident attorney is dedicated to protecting your rights, investigating your accident thoroughly, and helping you pursue the maximum settlement for medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. We offer a consultation to review your case, answer your questions, and explain your options every step of the way. Don’t navigate the aftermath of a ride-share accident alone—contact us today and let us fight for the justice and recovery you deserve.
Don’t pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Call (720) 802-1466 to schedule a free consultation with our Denver Uber & Lyft accident lawyer. Se habla español.
