Fairland, MD Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer

Many people crucially rely on Uber and Lyft’s transportation services to travel to work, visit social events, and run errands throughout Fairland, MD. Unfortunately, a high number of ridesharing drivers are involved in devastating accidents. These accidents can cause serious injuries to passengers, pedestrians, and third-party motorists.

The path to payment after an Uber or Lyft accident may seem complicated. Fortunately, our lawyers can guide you through each step of the legal process for pursuing compensation. We will make sure that your interests are protected, and that justice is served.

Get assistance from our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.

Can You Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident in Fairland, MD?

If you suffered an Uber or Lyft accident, then it is unlikely that you will be able to sue either ridesharing company for the injuries you suffered. Both Uber and Lyft classify their drivers are independent contractors, rather than traditional employees. This means that these companies typically may not be held responsible for their drivers’ negligent behavior.

However, both companies carry insurance policies that cover damages caused by their drivers. Our experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorneys can determine if you may recover payment under one of these policies after a collision. Moreover, we can evaluate potential lawsuits against other parties who may be responsible for your crash, such as a third-party driver or the manufacturer of a defective part. We will identify the proper route to compensation and fight to protect your interests.

Proving Fault for Uber and Lyft Accidents in Fairland, MD

In order to recover payment for Uber or Lyft accident injuries, you may need to establish fault for the crash. There is a multitude of evidence that may be utilized.

Witness Statements

Witness statements can be crucial in proving fault for Uber or Lyft accidents. Eyewitness accounts provide firsthand information about the events leading up to the accident and can help reconstruct the sequence of events. These statements can include details such as the actions of the drivers involved, the behavior of other vehicles on the road, and any environmental factors that may have contributed to the accident.

Expert Testimony

Expert testimony plays a significant role in establishing fault in Uber or Lyft accidents. Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the scene, vehicle damage, and other relevant factors to provide professional opinions on how the accident occurred and who may be at fault. Additionally, medical experts can testify about the extent of injuries sustained by the parties involved and how those injuries may have been caused by the accident.

Photographic Evidence

Photographic evidence, such as pictures taken at the scene of the accident, can be invaluable in proving fault. Photos can capture important details such as vehicle positions, road conditions, and traffic signals, providing visual documentation of the circumstances surrounding the accident. These images can help support witness statements and expert testimony, providing a clear picture of what happened.

Physical Evidence

Physical evidence from the vehicles involved in the accident can also be used to determine fault. This includes examining the vehicles for any defects or malfunctions that may have contributed to the accident, such as faulty brakes or tires. By inspecting the vehicles involved, experts can identify potential issues that could have played a role in causing the accident.

Surveillance Footage

Surveillance footage from nearby cameras can provide additional evidence to support claims of fault in Uber or Lyft accidents. Video recordings from traffic cameras, security cameras, or nearby businesses can capture the accident as it happens, providing objective evidence of the events leading up to the collision. This footage can be particularly useful in cases where there are disputes about what occurred or conflicting witness statements.

Why Do Uber and Lyft Accidents Happen in Fairland, MD?

There are many forms of negligent conduct that can lead to harmful Uber and Lyft accidents. For instance, the following are all common sources of such accidents in Fairland:

Tired Driving

Tired driving is a common cause of Uber and Lyft accidents, particularly for drivers who work long hours or late shifts. Fatigue can impair a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, increasing the risk of accidents. Drivers may struggle to stay alert behind the wheel, leading to lapses in attention and potentially dangerous situations on the road.

Drunk Driving

Drunk driving remains a significant concern in Uber and Lyft accidents. Despite strict policies prohibiting drivers from operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, some drivers may disregard these rules and endanger themselves and others on the road. Impaired judgment and coordination make it challenging for intoxicated drivers to safely navigate traffic, leading to an increased risk of accidents.

Failing to Adjust for Weather Conditions

Failing to adjust driving behavior for weather conditions can contribute to Uber and Lyft accidents, especially during adverse weather such as rain, snow, or fog. Drivers who fail to reduce their speed or increase following distances in poor weather conditions may struggle to maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the likelihood of accidents due to skidding, hydroplaning, or reduced visibility.

Improper Left Turns

Improper left turns are a common cause of accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers. Failing to yield the right of way, misjudging the speed or distance of oncoming traffic, or turning into the path of another vehicle can lead to collisions at intersections. Inadequate signaling or failure to properly check blind spots before turning left can exacerbate the risk of accidents.

Tailgating

Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle, is a common cause of accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers. Tailgating reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic flow, such as sudden stops or slowdowns, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. Drivers who engage in tailgating behaviors may be held liable for accidents caused by their failure to maintain a safe following distance.

Contact Our Law Firm for Support After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Fairland, MD

Seek help from our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys at Rice, Murtha & Psoras by dialing (410) 694-7291.