What happens if you get into an accident while riding in a Lyft or an Uber? What happens if you get into an accident while driving for Lyft or Uber? Since Uber and Lyft consider drivers to be contracted employees, a ride-share accident becomes murky fast when it comes to who is at fault or who is liable.
The Columbus Uber accident lawyers at Kisling, Nestico & Redick have extensive experience helping Ohio drivers and passengers navigate complicated legal processes and recover compensation after Lyft and Uber accidents. With 11 locations throughout Ohio, KNR’s Columbus car accident attorneys are well equipped to handle the most challenging rideshare cases.
Call KNR today at (614) 487-8669 or use our online contact form for a free, no -risk consultation.
Uber and Lyft in Columbus, Ohio
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft revolutionized transportation. They make ordering a car easier than calling a cab, and both left their mark on the gig economy.
In 2018, the average Lyft and Uber user in Columbus reportedly spent $49 on Lyft and Uber rides. However, with innovation comes legal challenges for passengers and drivers.
Why Do Lyft and Uber Accidents Happen?
Lyft and Uber rideshares have complexities that make them prone to accidents. Lyft and Uber both require drivers to operate software during transportation: they navigate with GPS and communicate with passengers via phone apps.
Although Ohio is a hands-free state and has laws against distracted driving, these requirements add to a driver’s propensity for distracted driving. This, combined with meeting unknown passengers in unfamiliar areas, give Uber and Lyft increased liabilities.
Common Uber and Lyft Accident Injuries
Whether your Uber was rear-ended on I-270 or someone sideswipes you on High Street – as an Uber or Lyft passenger or driver – you run the same risk as any Columbus car wreck.
These may require varying degrees of medical care and create a financial strain on victims. However, KNR can help you seek treatment and compensation for the losses associated with Lyft and Uber accidents.
With considerable experience helping local injury victims, our Columbus lawyers will guide and assist you with documenting the medical care and costs associated with a serious car accident. We have strong relationships with many of the excellent hospitals and trauma centers in Columbus, including:
Uber & Lyft Insurance in Ohio
Uber and Lyft drivers in Ohio must have personal car insurance that meets or exceeds the minimum state requirements. These vary by state, but Uber and Lyft have contingent coverage when their drivers have passengers.
When Lyft and Uber drivers are “off the clock” with the apps off, their personal auto insurance covers them. When drivers are on their way to pick up a passenger but do not have anyone in their car, the drivers’ personal insurance covers them. The driver has additional liability up to $100,000 for injuries and $25,000 for property if the driver’s insurance is not sufficient.
Drivers who have a passenger in their car during an accident have $1 million in liability coverage and $1 million in underinsured/uninsured coverage.
Suing Rideshare Companies
There was a well-known Uber accident case in 2014 when an Uber driver in California hit an underage pedestrian. The family sued Uber, and the company ultimately settled. However, the case was tricky because the driver did not have a passenger. Therefore, he was technically not on the clock but his availability was “on” in the Uber app.
Compensation after a Rideshare Accident
If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft, contact KNR immediately. Let us evaluate the situation and help figure out the best course of action. This is critical when dealing with multiple insurance companies and all the parties involved after a rideshare accident.
Passengers and drivers who sustain injuries deserve the hold the at-fault party accountable. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process, help you get treatment, negotiate with the insurance companies, and fight for everything you deserve.
A personal injury claim can help you recover your:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of consortium
KNR has helped numerous injury victims in Franklin County get compensation for their long-term needs. For example, we represented a client, struck head-on by a driver that lost control and went left of center on Hines Road in Columbus. We reached a $145,000 settlement.
Our Columbus Lyft and Uber Accident Lawyers Can Help
OThe experienced legal team at Kisling, Nestico & Redick can help you recover after a being injured in an Uber or Lyft.
We have 11 locations throughout Ohio and a long history of fighting for people like you. If you have questions, speak to a skilled Columbus rideshare accident attorney today.
Call (614) 487-8669 or contact us online . We offer 100% free initial consultations and there are no costs unless you recover compensation.
