Linthicum Heights Uber + Lyft Accident Lawyer

One of the easiest ways to get from here to there is a rideshare. Companies like Uber and Lyft have become popular because of their convenience and their ease of use. With the popularity and increase of Uber and Lyft drivers on the roads around the Linthicum Heights area comes an increase in car accidents involving rideshares.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury due to an accident involving an Uber or a Lyft, contact our Linthicum Heights Uber + Lyft accident lawyer today. Call Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291 to schedule a free consultation.

Uber and Lyft Use in Linthicum Heights

Uber and Lyft are rideshare platforms that connect people in need of rides with drivers. By selecting a location and a destination on their smartphone app, people seeking a ride are paired with the nearest driver. Through the app, a potential passenger can view their driver, the make and model of the car they are expecting, and pay for the service. the convenience of the system has made both companies very popular among Linthicum Heights residents.

Uber and Lyft Driver Misconduct in Linthicum Heights Car Accidents

Car accidents occur for a variety of reasons. Uber and Lyft drivers encounter the same risks as other drivers on the road. Everything from people operating their vehicles while impaired due to drugs or alcohol to poorly maintained road conditions contribute to accidents. Sometimes, the Uber or Lyft driver is at fault in a collision.

Uber and Lyft drivers are encouraged to fulfill as many trips as possible during a shift, keeping clients satisfied with fast and efficient rides while earning an income. Part of the way Uber and Lyft accomplish this is through a system called “forward dispatch.” A driver is given a new assignment before dropping off their current passenger. To ensure their new client is not waiting long, a driver could drop off their current passenger in an unsafe location or manner and then recklessly speed towards the location of the new client. In this example, the Uber or Lyft driver creates an unreasonable risk to their passenger and other drivers and pedestrians in the area. Additionally, to increase their income, drivers will be on the road for long shifts, increasing the chances of causing an accident due to fatigue.

Uber and Lyft drivers are often preoccupied with their smartphones. the app is their connection to both new passengers and a mapping system for finding and delivering clients to their destinations. Because of their reliance on the app, a driver could shift their focus from the roadway ahead of them to the app screen, resulting in distracted driving.

Uber and Lyft do not maintain a fleet of vehicles. the individuals who drive for both companies use their own cars. While there are minimum standards and annual inspections required by Uber and Lyft, keeping the vehicles in a safe working condition falls solely on the drivers. Furthermore, neither Uber nor Lyft require any specialized training for drivers using their app.

What to Do if Involved in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Linthicum Heights

Car accidents are frightening experiences and those involving Uber or Lyft drivers are no exception. If you are in a car accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, there are a few things you should consider.

• Seek immediate medical attention to ensure your injuries are properly treated. Even if you show no signs of visible injuries, you should still have a thorough examination – the severity of many injuries might not be readily apparent.
• Call the police and get a full report of the accident, including the contact information of any eyewitnesses.
• Take a screenshot of your Uber or Lyft app as evidence of your trip.
• Be sure to take photographs of any damage to the vehicles involved, the road conditions, and any injuries you sustained.
• Contact our experienced Linthicum Heights Uber and Lyft accident attorney as soon as you are able to do so.

Liability and Compensation in Linthicum Heights Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accidents

Determining fault in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver is the same as in any other car accident. If another driver caused the collision, they could be held liable and a claim could be filed against the driver and their insurance company. If the accident was caused by an Uber or Lyft driver, you should be able to file a claim against the driver and their insurance company as well. However, in this situation, the legal issues could become complicated and you should retain the services of our experienced Linthicum Heights attorneys.

Uber and Lyft have third-party insurance that covers up to $1 million for injuries and medical expenses resulting from car accidents. However, this coverage is secondary and does not go into effect unless the insurance carried by the other drivers involved is insufficient to cover the damages incurred.

Additionally, this insurance only covers injuries caused while the driver was transporting a passenger. If an accident occurs while the Lyft or Uber driver was between jobs, the coverage lowers to only $50,000.

Call Our Linthicum Height Uber + Lyft Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an accident involving a Lyft or Uber, contact Rice, Murtha & Psoras to review your options. Our Linthicum Height Uber + Lyft accident lawyers have years of experience with both personal injury law and Maryland insurance issues. Call the Linthicum Heights personal injury lawyers of Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291 to schedule a free consultation.