Rideshare Accident Lawyers in Pearland Helping Clients Injured in an Accident With an Uber or Lyft Driver

It is estimated that over 93 million people use Uber and Lyft worldwide on a regular basis, and drivers complete at least 1.44 billion trips per quarter. Rideshare apps are seen as a cheap, safe, and convenient way to get around, meaning these numbers will likely increase in the next few years. Unfortunately, with more rideshare drivers on the road, the likelihood of serious accidents occurring also increases. Learn how to receive compensation if you were hurt in an accident with an Uber or Lyft vehicle and the role an attorney can play in helping you recover compensation.

What Are the Most Common Reasons for Rideshare Accidents in Texas?

Rideshare drivers are independent contractors that sign up to provide rides to passengers via rideshare apps such as Uber or Lyft. These drivers are not employees and do not receive any specific training before being allowed to pick up passengers, unlike truck drivers or taxi drivers, so there is always a risk of accidents.

While some accidents occur due to reasons beyond the rideshare driver’s control, such as bad weather or mechanical failures, other accidents take place due to negligent actions, such as driving while intoxicated, and fatigue due to driving continuously for too many hours. Distracted driving, speeding, aggressive driving, and violating traffic laws such as crossing red lights are also common causes of rideshare accidents.

Will Uber or Lyft Cover a Car Accident?

Uber and Lyft offer insurance coverage for passengers and other drivers hurt in a car accident involving a rideshare vehicle. However, the status of the driver at the moment of the accident can determine how much coverage Uber or Lyft would provide.

If the driver was logged on to the app and carrying a passenger, Uber’s third-party liability insurance of up to 1 million per accident would apply. If the driver was offline or logged on and waiting for a trip request, you might have to file a claim against the driver’s personal auto insurance instead. If you were hurt or had your vehicle damaged in an accident with a rideshare driver, speaking to a skilled rideshare lawyer should be your first step.

How Much Time do I Have to File a Claim After a Rideshare Accident?

The Texas statute of limitations for personal injury claims allows claimants up to two years to take action and seek compensation for their damages. However, waiting for so long to initiate your claim is not recommended, especially if you intend to file a claim through the rideshare company’s insurance.

It is recommended to file an accident report with Uber or Lyft as soon as you can, then gather evidence from the scene of the accident, such as pictures, video, and police reports, as well as medical reports (if you were injured). Then, reach out to a rideshare accident attorney right away. The longer you wait, the less likely you may be to recover the evidence you need to support your case.

Why Should I Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer for My Case?

Navigating a rideshare accident claim process is not always simple, as the path you will take varies depending on the timing of the accident and the status of the driver. A seasoned rideshare accident attorney can guide you in the right direction, help you gather the evidence you need for your case, and handle all aspects of your case on your behalf, so you can focus on taking care of yourself.

At the Kahn Law Firm, P.C., our rideshare accident lawyers have helped countless clients hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident in Pearland, Texas, and surrounding areas to recover fair compensation, and they are ready to assist you with your case. Our attorneys can take care of a variety of tasks on your behalf, from completing paperwork to conducting negotiations, taking phone calls, and more. Reach out to our office at 713-999-6549 and request a free initial consultation to discuss your case and learn your options.