New Haven Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Handling Uber & Lyft Claims Throughout Connecticut
Millions of people today use smartphones and apps that make their lives more convenient, especially rideshare apps. Now, people don’t need to worry how they’re going to get around without a car or make it back home after a night of drinking – all they need to do is pull up their Uber or Lyft app, press a button, and have a driver pick them up.
Unfortunately, because of the rise of rideshare users, there has naturally been a rise in car accidents involving rideshare drivers. While some car accident cases are relatively straightforward, issues of liability and insurance coverage can be complex when an Uber or Lyft vehicle was involved in the accident. Our New Haven rideshare accident attorneys have ample experience helping clients who were injured in accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles and can help you navigate your claim with ease.
When you call the team at Action Law Group, you’re calling a law firm with more than 50 years of personal injury experience that is trusted by our community throughout Connecticut and is committed to seeing you through to a favorable outcome.
Want to learn how our attorneys can secure your desired results? Ask our team questions in a free consultation you can schedule by contacting us online or by phone today at (203) 439-3143.
Is it Safe to Trust an Uber or Lyft Driver?
Some individuals who decide to use a rideshare app for the first time may be wondering if anyone can be a driver, including those who lack experience or have a history of reckless or careless driving. According to Uber and Lyft, companies regularly screen drivers.
Information they need from drivers to approve them includes:
- Felony searches and ongoing criminal monitoring
- State sex offender registry search
- Nationwide criminal search
- County court records search
- Submission of car insurance, valid driver’s license, and social security number
- Driving record checks
Unfortunately, even when rideshare companies screen their drivers and approve them, this doesn’t mean you’ll always be safe on the road. Accidents can occur all the time and be caused by a variety of factors.
Who is Liable for Damages in an Accident?
The biggest question posed by victims after an accident involving a rideshare vehicle is who is supposed to pay for their damages when they file a personal injury claim. Many people assume they can file a claim against Uber or Lyft as companies, but it’s important to note that the companies distance themselves from drivers for this reason.
Uber and Lyft drivers aren’t considered company employees, but, rather, independent contractors. This means that if a driver harms someone else, the company may not always be directly responsible for damages. In many rideshare accident cases, the driver’s own insurance is directly responsible for damages.
However, both rideshare companies are required to carry liability coverage for their drivers, which may be used in certain driving situations. If the accident occurred when the driver had their app on and accepted a ride, for example, they can be covered by up to $50,000 for bodily injury, $100,000 for accident, and $25,000 for property damage. If the app wasn’t on, the driver is personally responsible.
Because each accident is unique and involves various factors, though, it’s difficult to determine who can be responsible for helping you pay your medical bills unless you have a seasoned personal injury attorney.
Understanding Your Rights as a Rideshare Passenger
As a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, it's important to understand your rights in the event of an accident. Whether you were injured in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare vehicle, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Our experienced New Haven rideshare accident lawyers can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Key points to consider about your rights as a rideshare passenger:
- Rideshare companies have insurance policies to cover passengers in the event of an accident
- You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- It's important to seek legal representation to ensure your rights are protected and upheld
Don't hesitate to reach out to our team at Action Law Group for a free consultation to discuss your rideshare accident case. We are dedicated to advocating for the rights of rideshare passengers and helping you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Local Support for Uber Accident Victims in New Haven
Living in New Haven, you know how bustling the streets can get, especially around Yale University and the downtown area. With the increase in rideshare services like Uber, accidents have unfortunately become more common. If you find yourself in such a situation, it's crucial to know that local resources are available to help you navigate the complexities of your claim.
New Haven residents can benefit from the support of local government entities such as the New Haven Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Transportation. These organizations provide valuable information and resources that can assist you in the aftermath of an accident. While we don't partner directly with these entities, we are well-versed in utilizing the information they provide to strengthen your case.
One of the significant pain points for New Haven residents involved in Uber accidents is the confusion surrounding liability and insurance coverage. The dense traffic around popular spots like Wooster Square and the East Rock neighborhood can lead to frequent accidents, making it essential to have a knowledgeable attorney who understands the local landscape and can guide you through the legal maze.
At Action Law Group, we are deeply familiar with the unique challenges faced by New Haven residents. Whether you're dealing with medical bills from Yale New Haven Hospital or lost wages due to time off work, we are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Our local knowledge and dedication to the community make us the go-to choice for Uber accident victims in New Haven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is responsible for an Uber or Lyft accident?
In the case of an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, the driver is typically the primary person responsible for the accident. However, determining liability can be complex. If the driver was working at the time of the accident (i.e., the app was on, and they had accepted a ride), Uber or Lyft may be held partially responsible through their liability insurance coverage. If the driver was not logged into the app and was driving privately, the driver’s personal insurance would likely cover the damages.
Our experienced attorneys can help you identify who is responsible and pursue a claim against the appropriate party.
2. What should I do if I’m involved in a rideshare accident?
If you're involved in an accident while riding in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare vehicle, you should:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries can appear later.
- Report the accident to the police and document the details of the incident.
- Take photos of the scene, including the damage to vehicles, your injuries, and any visible conditions (weather, road conditions, etc.).
- Exchange information with the rideshare driver, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
- Contact a New Haven rideshare accident lawyer: Our attorneys will help you navigate the complexities of your case and protect your rights.
3. Can I file a claim against Uber or Lyft directly?
While Uber and Lyft are not considered employers of their drivers (they are independent contractors), both companies provide liability insurance for their drivers. This insurance can be used in certain circumstances, depending on whether the driver was actively working (i.e., had the app on and was either en route to pick up a passenger or transporting a passenger).
Our lawyers will help you assess whether you should file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance or Uber/Lyft’s commercial insurance policy.
4. What types of compensation can I receive after a rideshare accident?
Victims of Uber and Lyft accidents can seek compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Including hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, and other medical treatments.
- Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injury.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: If your personal property (such as a phone or personal items) was damaged during the accident.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement: If the accident results in long-term injury or permanent damage, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
5. How long do I have to file a claim for a rideshare accident in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. If you do not file a lawsuit within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It's important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all legal deadlines and don’t miss out on your chance for compensation.
6. Do I need an attorney to file a rideshare accident claim?
While it is not legally required to have an attorney, it is highly recommended. Rideshare accidents often involve complex insurance issues and liability questions. Uber and Lyft, along with their insurers, have teams of legal experts and adjusters working against you. Having an experienced lawyer on your side will level the playing field and help you recover the full compensation you deserve.
Our attorneys at Action Law Group have extensive experience handling rideshare accident claims and will fight for your rights every step of the way.
7. What if the rideshare driver doesn't have enough insurance?
If the Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your damages, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy (if the driver was logged into the app at the time of the accident). In some cases, you may also be able to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if applicable.
Our team will help you explore all avenues for recovery to ensure you are fully compensated for your injuries.
8. Can I pursue a claim if I was a pedestrian hit by a rideshare driver?
Yes, if you were a pedestrian injured by an Uber or Lyft driver, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Rideshare drivers are required to carry liability insurance for incidents involving pedestrians, and our attorneys can help you determine the best course of action for recovering compensation.
How the Attorneys at Action Law Group Can Help You
Our rideshare attorneys know what evidence to collect and look out for to determine whether a driver or Uber or Lyft can ultimately be held accountable for negligence in a car accident. We’ve helped clients who have faced tens and thousands of dollars of debt in hospital and medication bills, lost wages and earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering. Injuries like paralysis, for example, can be long-lasting or permanent and require lifelong care. Your recovery is of the utmost importance to us, and we pursue the results you need tirelessly until we achieve them.
Our attorneys aren’t daunted by going up against companies as powerful as Uber or Lyft, or their insurance companies. If you deserve to be financially compensated, we won’t hesitate to go after what you need. We can protect you from companies that are just looking out for their own interests – your case is safe with us.
Proving liability can be tricky when an Uber or Lyft driver is involved, which is why you need an attorney who understands your situation. Contact our New Haven rideshare accident attorneys to learn more at (203) 439-3143.