Fort Meade Uber + Lyft Accident Lawyer
When calling an Uber or Lyft to transport us to another destination, we often assume that our driver will safely get us to our destination. However, Uber and Lyft drivers do not undergo a rigorous selection process, meaning each company can hire a driver that is not qualified for the position. As a result, the driver could be prone to cause a serious accident. If you or a family member was injured in an Uber or Lyft car accident, you should consult with an experienced Fort Meade Uber and Lyft accident lawyer.
Rice, Murtha & Psoras is dedicated to providing our clients with the unique legal representation needed to manage their cases. We recognize the impact a serious accident can have on a victim, and we are here for you in your time of need. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your claim, contact Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291. You may also contact the firm online.
Common Causes of Uber + Lyft Accidents in Fort Meade, MD
With the number of Uber and Lyft drivers operating in Maryland and across the United States, a rideshare driver will inevitably cause a serious accident. There are a number of reasons why an Uber or Lyft accident may occur. the following is a list of common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents that could lead to a claim for injuries.
Distracted Driving
In order to transport passengers, Uber and Lyft drivers are constantly required to use their cellphones to accept and end rides. While you would expect that some drivers would pull over when trying to accept a ride, others may attempt to use the application while they are driving. As a result, the rideshare driver could become distracted and cause a serious accident.
Speeding
In order to complete as many fares as possible within a limited amount of time, some Uber and Lyft drivers may resort to speeding. Dramatically exceeding the speed limit would not only endanger any passengers in the vehicle but will also endanger other motorists and pedestrians.
Intoxicated Driving
Passengers that call for an Uber or Lyft are trusting that their driver is not operating their vehicle while drunk or drugged. Unfortunately, a passenger may not observe any clues that their driver is intoxicated until they begin to act erratically behind the wheel. If you believe that your Uber or Lyft driver is intoxicated, you should end the ride immediately and report the incident to the respective rideshare company.
There are other circumstances that can lead to an Uber or Lyft accident. To learn more about who is liable for an Uber or Lyft accident, you should continue reading and speak with an experienced Fort Meade car accident attorney.
Liability for an Uber or Lyft Accident
Seeking compensation after an Uber or Lyft accident can be a tedious process. Not only will you have to report the accident to your insurance company, but you will also have to report the crash to the respective rideshare company.
After reporting the accident, you will likely have to explain the accident to a representative from Uber or Lyft. it is important to remember that this representative is not here to take your side. In fact, the representative may be looking for any details that could alleviate the company’s liability in the case.
While Uber and Lyft may try to avoid liability for a crash caused by one of their drivers, each company has policies that reimburse a victim for an accident under certain circumstances. the circumstances of the crash will help determine the level of insurance coverage that Uber or Lyft will apply for injuries, vehicle damage, and other expenses.
Note, however, if an Uber or Lyft accident occurred when a driver was not logged into the application, each company may successfully avoid liability for the accident. If the driver decided to transport passengers without using the application in order to earn more profits, they would be treated like any other driver on the road. This means that a victim of an accident will have to pursue the driver’s insurance company or file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. Filing an insurance claim may be an easier process, but if the compensation cannot cover the victim’s medical bills and other expenses, it may be wise to file suit.
There are two scenarios where Uber and Lyft will compensate a victim for an accident caused by one of their drivers:
- When a rideshare driver causes an accident after logging into the application but before accepting a fare
- When a rideshare driver causes an accident after accepting a fare or while transporting a passenger
If an accident occurs under the first scenario, Uber and Lyft will provide a victim with up to $100,000 for injuries and property damage. If an accident occurs under the second scenario, Uber and Lyft will provide up to $1,000,000 for injuries and property damage.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Meade Uber + Lyft Accident Attorney to Discuss Your Legal Options
If you or a family member sustained a severe injury during an Uber or Lyft accident, contact an experienced Fort Meade Uber and Lyft accident attorney. Personal injury attorney Randolph Rice has fought for residents of Fort Meade for over a decade, and he is ready to represent you in your injury claim. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your claim, contact Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.
