LYFT, UBER AND RIDESHARE ACCIDENT LAWYERS
We can help you in Madison, Morgan, Lawrence, and Limestone Counties and the surrounding areas.
Ridesharing has become extremely popular in Alabama over the past few years. A Lyft app can assist you in getting a ride to any destination you like with just a few clicks on your phone. Things get interesting though when you are involved in a crash caused by the driver of a Lyft vehicle. When you, your passengers, or a pedestrian is injured by a Lyft vehicle, it can be a difficult challenge to determine who is responsible for your damages. Our experienced Huntsville and Decatur Lyft accident lawyers can help you recover compensation for your damages. Call Ferguson & Ferguson today at 256-534-3435 to schedule your free no-obligation consultation.
Who Uses Lyft in Alabama?
People across the country use ridesharing apps. While many of these apps started in big cities, you can find them in almost every city in the United States. People use Lyft for the following reasons:
- Getting to class or school
- Commuting to or from work
- Going to concerts and sporting events
- To get around while on vacation or away from home
- Going to the mall or stores and run other errands
- Going out drinking and partying without driving
- Carrying children and teenagers to events
- Save money by not owning a car, paying for maintenance or insurance
- Going places in big cities where parking is difficult or illegal
What Damages can you Recover in a Lyft Accident
In the event of a rideshare accident, several types of compensation may be potentially recoverable depending on the severity of your injuries. These include:
1. Medical Expenses: You may be entitled to compensation for all current and future medical expenses related to the accident. This includes ambulance charges, hospital fees, physician consultations, rehabilitative therapy costs, prescription medications, and any other necessary medical treatments.
2. Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be eligible for reimbursement of lost wages. This includes any income you were unable to earn due to your inability to work immediately following the accident. Additionally, if your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability that affects your earning capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost wages.
3. Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering encompasses both the physical pain arising from your injuries and the mental and psychological trauma you experience as a result of the accident. This can include emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
4. Punitive Damages: While relatively uncommon, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault party acted in an especially malicious or intentional manner. Punitive damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future.
It’s important to note that the specific compensation you may be entitled to will depend on the circumstances of your case and the applicable laws in your jurisdiction. It is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury cases to assess your situation and determine the potential compensation that can be recovered from a rideshare accident.
Lyft Insurance
Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors. An independent contractor means that the drivers are not technically employees of these companies, and as such, Lyft could deny responsibility for accidents that are caused by the drivers. Lyft drivers are required to carry their own car insurance plus liability coverage for Lyft. When there are passengers in their cars, they are covered by a $1 million liability policy and an additional $1 million uninsured motorist policy.
One of the most confusing and frustrating aspects, when involved in a car accident with a Lyft driver, is dealing with their insurance company. That’s why it is important that you consult with an experienced car accident attorney at Ferguson & Ferguson so that they can evaluate your case and determine who is responsible for your damages.
Causes of Lyft and Uber Accidents
Statistics show that thousands of people are injured each year in Uber and Lyft accidents in the United States. Drivers are often under deadlines and speed to get to their next pickup and delivery. While this list provides a comprehensive overview of the common causes of car accidents, it is important to note that each accident is unique and may involve a combination of these factors. By understanding these causes and taking the necessary precautions, drivers can contribute to a safer road environment for everyone. Remember, it is crucial to prioritize safe driving practices, maintain focus on the road, and adhere to traffic regulations to minimize the risk of accidents.
There are various the most common causes of Alabama auto crashes:
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding: Speeding, whether exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions, can have deadly consequences. It reduces the driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, increases the stopping distance needed to avoid collisions, and makes it harder to control the vehicle. Almost 1/3 of all fatal car crashes in the U.S. are caused by excessive speeding. Speed limits in Alabama are similar to much of the United States with a minimum of 15 mph in school zones and a maximum of 70 mph on some interstate highways. The speed limit is highly variable in some areas so make sure you check the signs. Here are the general speed limits across the state. School zones 15 mph
Residential areas 25 mph
Non-paved county roads 35 mph
Highways 45-55 mph
Roadways with 4 or more lanes at 65 mph
Interstate highways 70 mph - Weather and road conditions: Fog, ice, floods, snow, and heavy winds create driving hazards and limit visibility for safe driving.
- Driver distractions: Examples of distracted driving behaviors include passengers, talking or typing on a cell phone, eating, grooming, satellite radio, reaching for something inside the vehicle, or looking at something outside the vehicle. Anything that distracts the driver from the task of driving increases the chances of causing an accident.
- Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment and reaction time, leading to accidents. It increases the likelihood of making poor decisions, reduces coordination and control, and affects the driver’s ability to perceive and respond to hazards on the road.
- Pedestrians
- Failure to yield: Failure to yield the right-of-way is a common cause of auto accidents in Huntsville because it disregards the rights of other road users to move with precedence in certain situations, leading to collisions or conflicts on the road.
- Illegal lane usage: Improper lane changes in Huntsville lead to auto accidents by moving into another traffic lane without properly signaling or checking first to ensure it is clear, resulting in sideswipes, collisions, or conflicts with other vehicles on the road.
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Disregarding traffic signs
- Driving too fast for conditions
- Failure to stay in lane
- Failure to watch for motorcycles
- Failure to yield to pedestrians:
- Following to close: Tailgating in Huntsville poses dangers as it involves driving too closely behind another vehicle without leaving enough distance to stop safely, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions and reducing the reaction time to sudden stops.
- Improper passing
- Reckless driving: Individuals exhibiting reckless driving behaviors increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Wrong way driving
- Texting and driving: Distracted driving, particularly from texting, poses a hazard to road safety.
- Drowsy driving: Fatigue or drowsiness can impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Overweight trucking loads
- Defective vehicle parts
- Hazardous road conditions
- Confusing signs: Disregarding traffic signs can lead to confusion and potential accidents.
- Potholes: Poor road conditions, such as potholes or uneven surfaces, can contribute to accidents.
- Construction zones: Navigating through construction areas requires heightened awareness and caution.
- Wet roads
- Road debris
- Icy or snowy roads
- Shoulder drop-offs
- Night driving: Driving at night poses risks and challenges due to limited visibility and compromised depth perception. It becomes harder to see pedestrians, road signs, and other vehicles. Additionally, the glare from oncoming headlights can temporarily blind drivers, making it difficult to maintain focus and react to unexpected situations.
What are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries?
More than half of all rideshare accidents in Alabama result in an injury to the driver or his or her passengers. If you or a loved one sustain injuries in an Uber or Lyft accident in Alabama, you and your loved ones have a right to be compensated for your injuries. Many of the injuries we see include the following:
- Burn injuries
- Catastrophic injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Bruising
- Whiplash includes:
- Extreme neck pain
- Strong headaches
- Tingling or numbness that moves into the arms or hands
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Instability in the neck
- Concussions
- Spinal issues
- Mental health issues including depression, insomnia, increased irritability or behavioral changes
- Concussion
- Eye injury
- Seatbelt injuries
- Chest injury
- Degloving injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injury
- Amputation
- Paralysis
- Wrongful death
- Soft tissue injuries
- Hip injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Strained ligaments
- Back muscle sprains
- Scrapes and Cuts
- Contusions
- Broken ribs
- Internal injuries
- Jaw injuries
- Loss of teeth
- Neck injuries
- Crushed larynx
- Crushed trachea
- Broken neck
- Pelvic injuries
- Penetration injuries
Rideshare accidents, regardless of their size or severity, can have long-lasting effects on individuals involved. Even seemingly minor accidents, such as fender-benders or rear-end collisions, can lead to a range of injuries that may not be immediately noticeable. Common injuries that can result from car accidents include whiplash, concussions, soft tissue injuries, back and spinal injuries, and psychological trauma like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These injuries may present themselves months or even years after the accident, highlighting the importance of seeking medical attention and monitoring your health following any collision, no matter how small. It’s crucial to recognize that not all injuries are visible externally, emphasizing the necessity of thorough evaluation and treatment to address any potential underlying issues. Additionally, passengers are at risk of experiencing whiplash, especially in rear-end collisions where they are most vulnerable to impact when sitting in the back of the car.
What insurance coverage is available when you are hurt in Alabama in an Uber or Lyft?
When does the coverage amount increase to up to $1 million while the passenger is in the vehicle?
The coverage amount increases to up to $1 million when the driver has accepted a ride, and it applies from the time the passenger is picked up until the time the passenger is discharged.
How much coverage is provided by Uber and Lyft when a ride is accepted and the passenger is in the vehicle?
When a ride is accepted and the passenger is in the vehicle, both Lyft and Uber offer up to $1 million in coverage from the time the passenger is picked up until the time the passenger is discharged. This means that in the event of an accident while a passenger is in the vehicle, Lyft provides comprehensive coverage to ensure the safety and protection of both passengers and drivers. It’s important to note that this coverage extends to various situations, including bodily injury and property damage, offering peace of mind to all parties involved in Lyft rides.”
What are the coverage amounts for bodily injury and property damage in different scenarios?
The coverage amounts for bodily injury in different scenarios are $50,000 for one person and $100,000 for multiple people. The coverage for property damage to another vehicle is $25,000.
What is the insurance coverage when the driver has their app turned on but hasn’t accepted a ride?
When the driver has their app turned on but hasn’t accepted a ride, the insurance for Uber/Lyft provides coverage as follows: Bodily injury for one person – $50,000, bodily injury for multiple people – $100,000, and property damage to another vehicle – $25,000.
How are Uber and Lyft accidents different than other car accidents?
Uber and Lyft accidents differ from other car accident cases in various aspects. One notable difference is that Uber and Lyft drivers are considered common carriers, which means they have a higher duty of care towards their passengers compared to regular drivers. Additionally, the laws that apply to car accidents involving Uber or Lyft drivers may vary from those involved in standard car accidents. For example, the Guest Passenger Statute in Alabama may not apply to accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles.
Another key difference is the importance of determining whether the Uber or Lyft driver was actively working at the time of the collision. This distinction is crucial as it can impact the insurance coverage available in such cases. Depending on whether the driver was on duty or not, the insurance coverage may vary, which can significantly affect how the case is handled and the compensation available to the injured parties.
In summary, Uber and Lyft accidents present unique considerations compared to other car accident cases, such as the specific legal obligations of common carriers, the applicability of certain statutes, and the impact of the driver’s work status on insurance coverage.
Who is at fault in an Uber or Lyft accident
n cases of Uber accidents or Lyft accidents, responsibility may lie with the drivers of these ridesharing services. These drivers are considered common carriers and are held to a higher duty of care towards their passengers. Unlike traditional car accidents, the usual guest passenger statutes may not apply in situations involving Uber or Lyft. Determining whether the driver was working for the ridesharing service at the time of the accident is crucial, as this impacts their insurance coverage. If you find yourself in an Uber or Lyft accident, seeking guidance from a legal professional specializing in Ride Sharing Accidents is advisable to understand your rights and options.
What should you do if you are hit by a Lyft or Uber driver?
If you are involved in a collision with an Uber or Lyft driver, the first step is to assess whether the driver was on duty or off-duty at the time of the accident. The insurance coverage and legal responsibilities of the driver differ based on this distinction. In such a situation, seeking guidance from a legal professional specialized in handling Ride Sharing Accidents is highly advisable to understand your rights and navigate the legal process effectively.
How long do you have to file a rideshare accident case?
The time limit for filing a rideshare accident claim varies depending on the state where the accident occurred. Each state has its own statutes of limitations that determine the period within which you must file your claim. It is important to note that this time limit can differ from state to state.
For example, in the state of Alabama, the statute of limitations for a rideshare accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you’re involved in a rideshare accident in Alabama, you must file your claim within two years of the accident date to have the opportunity to seek recovery for your injuries. Failing to file your claim within this time frame may prevent you from pursuing any legal recourse.
To ensure you adhere to the specific time limit applicable to your location, it is recommended that you consult with a legal professional who can provide you with accurate information regarding the statute of limitations for a rideshare accident claim in your state.
What information do you need if you are in a Alabama rideshare accident?
In the event of a rideshare accident, it is crucial to gather specific information for legal and insurance purposes. To ensure that you have all the necessary details to protect yourself, you should seek the following:
1. Driver’s Information:
– Obtain the driver’s full name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
2. Witness Details:
– Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses present at the scene of the accident.
3. Visual Documentation:
– Use your smartphone to take photographs of the accident site, focusing on Uber/Lyft stickers or badges, license plates, and any visible damages.
4. Medical Assistance:
– Get immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained during the accident to safeguard your well-being.
Remember to retain your reservation information to streamline the post-accident procedures effectively. By securing this critical information, you can ensure a smoother resolution following a rideshare accident.
How an Attorney Can Help
At Ferguson & Ferguson our team of skilled Huntsville, AL injury attorneys specializes in handling Lyft car accident cases. With over 60 years of experience, we are dedicated to providing our clients with professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable legal representation in Huntsville and Decatur.
We understand that navigating the aftermath of a Lyft car accident can be overwhelming, and that’s why we are here to help. Our priority is to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
When you choose us as your legal advocates, we go the extra mile to make ourselves available to you. We are always just a phone call, email, or text away, and we are more than willing to meet with you in person to discuss your case. Our responsiveness and accessibility are crucial in addressing your concerns and guiding you through the legal process.
Furthermore, as Lyft car accident attorneys, we offer our services on a contingency fee basis. This means that if we don’t recover any compensation for you, you won’t owe us any fees. We believe in providing high-quality legal representation without adding financial stress to our clients’ lives.
To begin, we offer a free and confidential evaluation of your case. During this evaluation, we will listen to your account of the accident, gather important details, and assess the potential strengths and weaknesses of your claim. This initial consultation allows us to determine the best approach for pursuing compensation on your behalf.
Our experienced team will handle all aspects of your Lyft car accident case, from gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, to representing you in court if necessary. We have a deep understanding of the complexities of Lyft accident claims and will utilize our expertise to build a strong case on your behalf.
If you have been involved in a Lyft car accident, we encourage you to reach out to us today to schedule your free, confidential evaluation. Allow us to guide you throughout the entire legal process, provide you with the support you need, and fight tirelessly to obtain the compensation you deserve. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident with a Lyft driver, they should seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Call today at (256)534-3435 to schedule a free, no obligation, confidential case assessment with one of our experienced Lyft accident lawyers. We are here to help.
Huntsville Office Location:
303 Williams Avenue SW
Suite 321
Huntsville, AL 35801
Decatur Office Location:
211 Oak Street NE
Decatur, AL 35601