Akron Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers

Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents

Traffic accidents happen daily, and rideshare-related crashes have become more common as Uber and Lyft usage increases. These auto accidents can result from various factors, including driver distraction, speeding, reckless driving, and even poor road conditions.

Some of the most dangerous intersections in Akron, where Uber and Lyft accidents frequently occur, include:

• East Market Street and Mogadore Road/Interstate 76 ramps
• South Maple Street and Rhodes Avenue
• South Broadway and East Thornton Street

While ridesharing services offer convenience, they also present unique risks. Features like GPS navigation, ride requests, and customer interactions can divert a driver’s attention, increasing the likelihood of a collision.

Types of Uber & Lyft Accidents in Akron

Uber and Lyft accidents occur under various circumstances, each with different liability considerations and insurance coverage. Common scenarios include:

• As a passenger in an Uber/Lyft hit by another driver: If another negligent driver causes the crash, their insurance should cover damages. However, Uber or Lyft’s policy may apply if the driver is uninsured or underinsured.
• Your Uber or Lyft driver is at fault: If the rideshare driver’s negligence caused the accident, Uber and Lyft have commercial insurance policies that may cover your injuries.
• As a rideshare driver hit by a negligent driver: If another driver caused the crash while you were working, their insurance is primarily responsible. If they are uninsured or underinsured, Uber/Lyft’s contingent coverage may apply.
• Pedestrian hit by an Uber/Lyft: If a rideshare driver hits a pedestrian, determining liability depends on whether the driver was actively working, waiting for a ride request, or driving personally.

Understanding who is at fault and which insurance policies apply is crucial in securing fair compensation after an Uber or Lyft accident.

Determining Liability in an Uber or Lyft Accident

Liability in rideshare accidents depends on who was responsible and whether the rideshare driver was actively engaged in a ride. Potentially liable parties include:

• The Uber/Lyft driver: If the rideshare driver caused the accident due to reckless driving, distraction, or impairment, they and Uber/Lyft’s insurance policy may be responsible.
• Another negligent driver: If another motorist crashes into an Uber/Lyft vehicle, their personal insurance is typically responsible.
• Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage: Uber and Lyft provide different levels of coverage depending on whether the driver was:
  • Not using the app: The driver’s personal insurance applies.
  • Waiting for a ride request: Uber/Lyft provide contingent liability coverage.
  • En route to pick up a passenger or during a ride: Uber/Lyft’s $1 million commercial policy applies.
• Vehicle manufacturers or third parties: If the accident was caused by a vehicle defect, faulty brakes, or poor road conditions, a third party may be liable.

Injuries in Akron Uber & Lyft Accidents

Even with modern vehicle safety features, rideshare passengers, drivers, and pedestrians can suffer severe injuries in an accident. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash: Sudden head and neck movement from a crash can lead to chronic pain.
• Back and neck trauma: Herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, and nerve damage can result from collisions.
• Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and facial fractures are common in high-impact crashes.
• Internal injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding can be life-threatening if untreated.
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries: Head trauma can cause memory loss, cognitive impairments, and long-term disabilities.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Psychological trauma from a serious crash can affect mental health.
• Fatal injuries: Some Uber and Lyft accidents result in wrongful death claims, leaving families with significant financial and emotional burdens.

Uber & Lyft Insurance Policies

Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for accidents, but the coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:

• Off-Duty Driver (App Off): Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber/Lyft provide contingent liability coverage of up to:
  • $50,000 per person for injuries
  • $100,000 per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage
• En Route to Pick Up or During a Ride: Uber/Lyft’s $1 million commercial insurance policy applies, covering passengers and third parties.

What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Akron

If you are involved in a rideshare accident, take the following steps to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:

• Call 911 and seek medical attention: A police report and medical evaluation are essential for your case.
• Document the accident: Take photos and videos of the crash, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
• Get driver and rideshare details: Obtain contact, insurance, and rideshare app information from all involved parties.
• Report the accident to Uber or Lyft: File an incident report through the rideshare app.
• Avoid talking to insurance adjusters: Do not accept quick settlement offers without legal advice.
• Consult an Uber & Lyft accident lawyer: KNR can handle negotiations and secure the compensation you deserve.

What Is a Rideshare Accident Worth?

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Determining the value of your claim depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical costs, time off work, and long-term effects on your life. Since multiple insurance policies may be involved, navigating an Uber or Lyft accident claim can be complex.

A skilled Akron rideshare accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensure you receive proper medical treatment, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Damages You May Recover in an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim

A personal injury claim after a rideshare accident may help you recover:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and ongoing medical treatments.
• Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity: Compensation for missed work, loss of future income, and reduced ability to earn due to long-term disabilities.
• Pain & Suffering: Damages for physical pain, chronic discomfort, and loss of quality of life resulting from your injuries.
• Emotional Distress & Mental Anguish: Compensation for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and PTSD caused by the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: If the injuries impact your relationship with a spouse or family member, you may be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship, affection, or support.

If your accident resulted in a fatality, the victim’s family may also pursue a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship.

Maximize Your Akron Uber or Lyft Accident Claim

Uber and Lyft carry considerable insurance coverage, but insurance companies may attempt to undervalue or deny your claim. Having an experienced attorney on your side ensures:

• A thorough investigation into the accident to prove liability
• Collection of medical records, expert testimony, and evidence to support your case
• Negotiation with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation
• Legal representation if your case needs to go to trial.

The value of your Uber or Lyft accident case depends on who was at fault, the extent of your injuries, and the financial impact on your life. KNR can evaluate your claim, determine its worth, and fight for the full settlement you deserve.

Set Up Your Free Consult

Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers Will:

• Investigate, collect evidence, and find those at fault.
• Interview witnesses, medical professionals, and experts to show how your life was impacted.
• Communicate with the insurer, clarify liability, and pursue max compensation.
• Determine your Uber accident’s full and fair value – what you lost and deserve.
• Keep you informed and involved. KNR is available by phone, text, email, or Zoom.
• Protect your rights and, if necessary, take your case to court.
• Never charge you upfront. If there’s no recovery, there’s no cost.

Akron Uber & Lyft Accident FAQs