Uber/Lyft Accident Claims
Need a Pasadena car accident lawyer?
Though rideshare options like Lyft and Uber boast cheaper rates and safer alternatives for those that need designated drivers on a whim or safe transportation late at night, there are many negatives to this new trend. The main contentious issue is the liability in these types of accidents.
Is the driver alone at fault, or is Uber liable as well? What if the accident happened while the Uber or Lyft driver was signed into the app, but wasn't transporting passengers?
While this can be a very overwhelming and confusing time, it is crucial that you take action as soon as possible. Companies like Uber will do everything possible to avoid paying out damages to injury victims, even when their drivers are responsible.
If you have been injured in an accident involving an Uber driver, contact our Pasadena car accident lawyers right away. Our husband and wife lawyer team have more than 40 years of collective experience and always work on a contingency fee basis, giving our clients confidence and peace of mind.
How much insurance coverage do Uber & Lyft drivers have?
The policy limit that applies to your accident depends on whether the accident happened while the Uber driver was on a trip. If the Uber app is on and the Uber driver was on a trip when the accident happened, then the Uber driver has $1 million in liability coverage. If the Uber app was on but the Uber driver was not on a trip (the Uber driver was not logged in and available), then the Uber driver had only $50,000 per person in liability coverage and $100,000 per accident.
You can be sure that Uber and Lyft will seek to avoid financial responsibility for an accident, which is why you need an aggressive personal injury lawyer on your side if you've been injured by an Uber driver.
By demonstrating the following, we will hold Uber & Lyft accountable for your injuries:
- Uber & Lyft drivers lack proper training or guidelines
- There is no mandatory vehicle inspections or upkeep
- The GPS Uber/Lyft system arguably violates California traffic laws by distracting its drivers
- Uber/Lyft should be responsible for their employed drivers
While each case is different, our goal is always the same: demand that the responsible party pays for all of the harm caused to our clients.
Uber & Lyft Dooring Accidents – Who is Liable?
When a car door swings open suddenly and strikes a passing cyclist or passerby, it is known as a dooring accident. In most scenarios, the person who opens the door and causes injury to another person is the only party who can be held liable for the damages. This is not the case when the passenger was in an Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing vehicle.
The drivers of Uber and Lyft vehicles are expected to only let a passenger depart when it is safe to do so. It would not be deemed safe if a cyclist or pedestrian was nearby to the vehicle, especially where the door will swing open. If the driver does not use the side mirrors to warn of potential hazards, then they could be found partially liable in an Uber or Lyft dooring accident.
Uber and Lyft drivers in Pasadena can protect themselves from liability by equipping the interior of their car with stickers that warn passengers to check for cyclists before exiting the vehicle. McGee, Lerer & Associates is giving out a set of warning stickers for free to any ridesharing driver who calls us at (626) 642-9302. We suggest you place the stickers on the inside of the rear passenger doors.
Reach out to our injury attorneys today
When you come to our firm, we will work tirelessly to obtain the fair compensation you deserve for your accident. With our experience and background, we know how to fight for restitution for damages, lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering and much more.
Do not wait to retain counsel from our compassionate and trusted legal team. McGee, Lerer & Associates is more than prepared to assist with your injury claim. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.