Injured in a Ridesharing Accident? Our Lafayette Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help

Rideshare accident cases often involve corporate entities with substantial legal resources, which could mean a long and confusing process for victims trying to recover compensation. 

However, at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we have a proven track record of handling complex cases and securing substantial settlements. Our case results reflect our dedication to justice and victims’ best interests. So, if you or a loved one has been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Lafayette, schedule a free consultation with us! We can assess your case, lay out potential legal avenues, and estimate your claim’s value.

How Uber & Lyft Insurance Coverage Works in Indiana

Both Uber and Lyft have their own insurance policies that operate differently from typical auto insurance. These companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, complicating efforts to hold them directly responsible for driver negligence.

Additionally, Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of insurance coverage based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

  • Offline: The driver’s personal insurance policy is the primary coverage.
  • Logged into the app, waiting for a ride: Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage, typically offering up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.
  • En route or during a ride: Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in coverage for bodily injuries and property damage.

These coverage limits determine the maximum payout from the rideshare company’s insurance. However, if the company’s coverage is insufficient, we can maximize your compensation. By pursuing claims against various liable parties, challenging low settlements, or utilizing your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, we aim to cover the full extent of your damages​.

Can You Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident?

As we’ve said earlier, rideshare companies usually classify their drivers as independent contractors, which complicates efforts to hold the company accountable for the actions of individual drivers.

However, in certain situations, Uber or Lyft may still bear some responsibility for an accident, such as in cases of:

  • Negligent hiring or failure to conduct proper driver background checks.
  • Failure to maintain safe rideshare policies, including safety protocols and driver training.
  • Negligence in enforcing safety regulations, like allowing drivers with prior traffic violations to operate.

In such cases, our skilled attorneys can help determine the most effective strategy for holding Uber or Lyft accountable for negligence and gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case.

Common Injuries in Uber & Lyft Accidents

Common injuries sustained in Uber and Lyft accidents include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Head and brain injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Fractured or broken bones
  • Spinal cord injuries, which may lead to long-term or permanent disability
  • Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains

The nature and severity of these injuries significantly influence the compensation awarded for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we focus on thoroughly calculating damages to ensure you’re not left burdened with expenses caused by someone else’s fault.

Filing an Uber/Lyft Accident Claim in Lafayette

When filing a car accident claim in Indiana after a rideshare accident, you’ll typically encounter the following steps:

  1. Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app.
  2. File an insurance claim with Uber, Lyft, or the driver’s personal insurer, depending on the circumstances.
  3. Provide medical documentation and evidence related to the accident to support your claim.
  4. Work with a car accident lawyer from Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, who’ll thoroughly investigate the incident, prove liability, and negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement.

How Much Compensation Can You Receive From a Rideshare Accident?

The amount of compensation available to victims of Uber or Lyft accidents varies based on the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and the insurance coverage available. 

Usually, you can recover the following costs:

  • Medical expenses, both past and future healthcare costs related to the injuries.
  • Lost wages due to time off work or reduced earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering, which considers the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
  • Rehabilitation costs, including physical therapy and long-term care.
  • Property damage to vehicles and other belongings.

Our lawyers can address all your rideshare accident settlement and lawsuit questions during a free consultation, providing insights into the compensation you may be entitled to receive depending on your case’s specifics.

Proving Liability in an Uber or Lyft Accident

Here are key aspects to consider when proving liability:

  • Whether the driver was logged into the app: This impacts whether Uber or Lyft insurance will apply, as coverage varies based on whether the driver is waiting for a ride or actively transporting a passenger.
  • The driver’s level of negligence or fault: Evidence like traffic violations, suspended licenses, or distracted driving can establish the driver’s fault.
  • The role of other vehicles or external factors: In some cases, other drivers or external elements, like poor road conditions due to governmental entities’ negligence, can add different compensation sources.

By gathering evidence from the scene and directly linking your injuries to the other party’s actions, we build a compelling case that maximizes your chances of securing fair compensation for your losses.

Statute of Limitations for Uber & Lyft Accident Claims in Indiana

In Indiana, the statute of limitations for car accidents gives victims two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. 

As outlined in Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4, filing a claim after this deadline could result in losing your right to compensation altogether. Make sure you consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to begin building your case.

Contact an Experienced Lafayette Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer

Early legal intervention is key to protecting your rights after a rideshare accident. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our experienced team offers a free consultation to discuss your case, allowing us to tailor our approach to your specific needs. 

With decades of experience, our firm is dedicated to helping Lafayette residents secure the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation!