Protecting Clients’ Rights For Over 30 Years

Helping You With Your Uber And Lyft Accident Claim

Ride-sharing vehicles can sometimes be more dangerous because the drivers use their phones or vehicle navigation systems to get you from point A to point B. Unfortunately, a driver’s divided attention can result in an auto accident, sometimes causing debilitating or deadly injuries. Handling a car accident with a rideshare vehicle is very different than a normal auto accident, and should always be handled by a legal professional who knows how to properly defend your rights.

At Ruth Law Firm, I, Jonathan C. Ruth, an Uber accident lawyer, have the legal skills and applicable experience necessary to help you through your car accident. Most rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, do not consider their drivers employees. Instead, they view drivers as independent contractors, which can make the legal process difficult when you need to file insurance claims and seek reparation for damages. I can help clients navigate these frustrating complexities and will evaluate all available legal options to find the best course of action.

Common Causes Of Rideshare Accidents

Like other car crashes, rideshare accidents can occur due to various factors, and understanding the common causes can help you stay informed and take necessary precautions. I have helped clients with numerous rideshare accident cases and can provide valuable insights into the causes of these accidents.

Some common causes of rideshare accidents include:

  • Distracted driving: Many rideshare drivers may get distracted by their GPS, passengers or mobile devices, leading to accidents.
  • Driver fatigue: Rideshare drivers often work long hours, increasing the risk of driver fatigue and impaired judgment.
  • Reckless driving: Some drivers may engage in aggressive behaviors like speeding, tailgating or running red lights, putting passengers and other motorists at risk.
  • Vehicle maintenance issues: Rideshare drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, and neglecting regular maintenance can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.
  • Intoxicated driving: Despite strict policies, some rideshare drivers may still operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs, endangering everyone on the road.

By understanding the common causes of rideshare accidents, you can be more vigilant while using these services and take appropriate legal action if you become a victim. I am here to help you navigate the complexities of rideshare accident cases and seek the compensation you deserve by filing a personal injury claim.

What To Do After A Rideshare Accident

Being involved in a rideshare accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights:

  • Call the police: Always call 911 or local law enforcement immediately after an accident, even if it seems minor. Documenting the incident is crucial for your case.
  • Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
  • Collect evidence: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including any damage to the vehicles involved. Also, get the contact and insurance information of all parties involved.
  • Contact a rideshare accident attorney: A legal professional can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim and seeking compensation for your damages and injuries.

At Ruth Law Firm, I understand the challenges of dealing with a rideshare accident. I am here to guide you every step of the way and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding The Ridesharing Company’s Policies

While ride-sharing companies will have insurance to cover damages during accidents, they often have gaps in coverage, making it difficult to pin legal responsibility on the company. As mentioned above, Uber and Lyft, two of the most popular ridesharing companies, do not consider their drivers employees.

Each driver is only required to have personal auto insurance, a valid driver’s license, and a few other things in order to gain employment. With these somewhat low standards, it’s highly likely that some of the drivers are untrained, unqualified, and potentially dangerous.

Both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million in liability coverage for accidents, though coverage is only provided at particular times. For Uber, the driver is only covered by their company policy when the app is on and the driver is marked “available,” and the driver is currently on an Uber trip and carrying a passenger.

In some situations, the company’s insurance and the driver’s insurance will cover the accident, and in others, only one will effectively offer coverage, or neither will. I can investigate the company and individual driver policies to discover which can offer you coverage after an injury.

Seek Compensation For Your Uber Or Lyft Accident

If you were in an accident while accepting a ride from a rideshare service, I want to help. When you suffer an injury because of another individual or company’s negligence, you may be able to seek reparation for medical costs, loss of wages, and any pain and suffering.

At Ruth Law Firm, I look out for the interests of our clients, using ample resources to investigate your case and develop a solid plan of action. My firm has 30 years of experience providing competent legal help to those in need. If you believe you may have a personal injury case, I encourage you to reach out to my firm. To schedule a free consultation, call me at 701-581-9098 or fill out my online contact form. From my office in Fargo, I can assist clients in North Dakota and Minnesota.