Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, are a convenient way to get around– you can relax without worrying about traffic, parking, or bus schedules. However, just like any motorist, rideshare drivers may be involved in car accidents.
After an Uber or Lyft accident, victims often face serious injuries, property damage, and expensive medical bills. Whether you’re a driver or passenger, if you’ve been in an accident involving an Uber vehicle in Arizona, it’s time to consider contacting a rideshare accident attorney.
Though Uber drivers are considered to be “independent contractors,” not employees of Uber itself, they still must meet certain qualifications to be approved to drive.
To become an Uber driver in Arizona, an individual must meet the following requirements:
Some cities have additional requirements. In Tucson, for example, an Uber car may not be older than 16 years old.
The state of Arizona requires all motorists to purchase liability insurance. The minimum levels for liability coverage are:
In order to be an Uber or Lyft driver in Arizona, an individual must have the auto insurance coverage that is required by the state. However, rideshare companies also have their own insurance policies that may cover a rideshare driver, passenger, or other motorist in the event of an accident.
There are three levels of insurance coverage for Uber drivers.
Although Uber maintains these insurance policies, they have been known to try to deny liability in the event of an accident. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and fight for maximum compensation from all liable parties.
Although rideshare services are typically safe, they are susceptible to human error, just like any other vehicle.
Common causes of rideshare accidents include:
Car accident injuries can range from mild to life-threatening.
Injuries that Uber accident victims commonly face include:
After a car accident, many people become panicked, confused, or unsure of what to do. This is completely normal. However, it’s important that you get your injuries checked, exchange information with the other driver, and report the accident to the right people in order to protect yourself.
If possible, get your vehicle out of traffic. Do not leave the accident scene, but pull your car over to the side of the road or into a nearby parking lot. This will help keep you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road safe.
Check everyone involved for injuries. If anyone has suffered more than a few scratches, call 911. While emergency services are there, it’s a good idea to get checked by the medical team. You may have injuries you are unaware of.
Even if no one was seriously hurt, call the police and have an officer come to the scene. Many insurance companies require a police report before they will approve any claims.
While speaking to the officer, stick to the facts surrounding the accident. Do not admit fault or speculate on the cause of the crash. Doing so could damage your personal injury claim later on.
While you wait for the police to arrive, take pictures of the scene. Make sure to get photos of everyone’s injuries, both cars, weather and traffic conditions, and the area as a whole. These pictures may be useful as evidence when building your claim.
Exchange the following information with the driver of the other vehicle:
When speaking with the other driver, remain calm. Avoid becoming upset, placing blame, or apologizing.
After you have been cleared to leave the scene, see a medical professional as soon as you can. After the adrenaline has worn off, you may find you have injuries you didn’t notice initially. You may also have hidden injuries, such as internal damage.
Keep track of all medical treatment you receive. The expenses can be added to your accident claim.
Even if you were not at fault for the accident, report it to your insurance provider. You may have MedPay coverage on your personal insurance policy. MedPay, or medical payments coverage, will pay some of your medical bills up front, so you do not have to wait for your case to settle.
If the other driver was uninsured or does not have sufficient insurance coverage, ask your insurance agent if you have UM/UIM coverage. This can help pay for damage that the other driver’s insurance policy won’t cover.
An experienced car accident lawyer can help you get fair compensation for your injuries. Depending on the nature of your accident, you may be covered by the other driver’s insurance policy or by Uber’s insurance.
An Uber accident attorney will help you understand the claims process, build your case, and negotiate with insurance companies.
Every Uber accident case is different. The damages you can seek after your accident will depend on the injuries you suffer and the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Commonly sought motor vehicle accident damages include:
Your Uber accident attorney can provide you with a free case review to help you determine how much your accident claim is worth.
Even if you are covered by insurance, it can be difficult to actually receive the compensation you are owed. Multi-million dollar insurance companies will often do everything they can to deny liability and avoid paying you fair compensation for your injuries. It is a good idea to have legal representation on your side.
A car accident attorney with The Advocates can help. We have been representing accident victims for more than 30 years, so we know the tricks that insurance companies try to pull. We are a team of skilled negotiators and fierce litigators who will do whatever it takes to protect your rights.
The Advocates offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options. We’re local to Arizona, so we can assist you in accessing medical care, vehicle repairs, and any other resources you might need in your area.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a rideshare accident, whether as a driver or passenger, give The Advocates a call to find out how we can help. You deserve a legal team who puts you first. You deserve an Advocate.