Rideshare Accidents

At Alabama Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC, our Birmingham rideshare accident attorney understands the intricacies of rideshare accidents, including how they happen, who may be held responsible, and how a skilled rideshare accident lawyer can help you secure fair compensation for your injuries.

What Makes Rideshare Accidents Unique?

Rideshare crashes are very different from ordinary car crashes. In contrast to regular taxi drivers, the drivers of Uber and Lyft drive their own vehicles and are considered to be independent contractors, not employees of the ridesharing operators. This difference presents unique issues for pursuing a claim as liability can be so complicated and multi-faceted.

Here are some reasons why rideshare crashes are distinctive:

• Layers of Insurance: Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies offer multiple levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Since it is a tiered system, it can be more difficult to determine which level of insurance coverage applies.
• Independent Contractor Status: Because rideshare drivers are considered to be independent contractors, it is difficult to hold Uber or Lyft directly liable. This is in contrast to regular cab companies, where taxi drivers are employees.
• Technology Reliance: Rideshare drivers rely heavily on GPS navigation and mobile app guides, which can distract them and cause accidents.
• Rapid Rise of Rideshare Services: The boom in rideshare services has led to an influx of new drivers on the road, which, in turn, is leading to an increased number of accidents.
• Dynamic Ride Matching: Being constantly matched with new rides, switching pickup locations, and dealing with passengers puts extra cognitive stress on rideshare drivers, which can cause them to make more mistakes on the road.
• Massive Pool of Part-Time Drivers: The majority of rideshare drivers are part-time drivers, which means they are not necessarily as experienced or familiar with area traffic patterns as full-timers.
• Passenger-Focused Accidents: Unlike “standard” car accidents, rideshare collisions are generally passenger-centric, which provides additional layers of potential liability concerns and injury claims.
• Laws and Regulations: Rideshares are subject to different rules than taxis, making the claims a bit more complex. The state, federal and local laws governing rideshare liability will vary.

Recent Statistics on Rideshare Accidents

The rapid growth of rideshare services has had a measurable impact on traffic safety and accident rates. Here are some recent statistics that highlight the trends in rideshare-related accidents:

• Rideshare Drivers: According to a study conducted by the University of Illinois Chicago, approximately one-third of rideshare drivers have been involved in an automobile accident while on the job.
• Rideshare-Related Collisions: Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that rideshare vehicles are involved in approximately 10-15% of all vehicle collisions in major metropolitan areas.
• Passenger Safety: A report by the American Journal of Epidemiology found that passenger injuries account for nearly 60% of rideshare-related accident claims.
• Distracted Driving: The increase in rideshare services has correlated with higher rates of distracted driving incidents. Studies show that distracted driving is a factor in over 25% of rideshare-related crashes.
• Birmingham Trends: In Birmingham and the surrounding areas, rideshare accidents have been on the rise. Local law enforcement data shows an increase in rideshare-related accidents in recent years.

These statistics underscore the importance of understanding your rights and legal options if you are involved in a rideshare accident. The growing prevalence of these services means that accidents will continue to affect more people, making it crucial to have the knowledgeable legal support of a Birmingham rideshare accident attorney.

7 Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare drivers face many challenges that can contribute to accidents. Seven of the most common causes of rideshare accidents in Birmingham include:

• Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers use their mobile phones to find their way around the area and communicate with customers — all of which puts them at risk of distracted driving.
• Fatigue: Rideshare drivers work long hours, or drive part-time during the off-hours, resulting in driver fatigue and slower response times.
• Speeding: To maximize earnings, some drivers may rush to complete more rides, leading to speeding and reckless driving.
• Inexperience: Not all rideshare drivers are experienced or familiar with Birmingham’s roadways, contributing to poor decision-making and unsafe driving.
• Negligent Behavior: Actions such as failing to yield, running red lights, and ignoring traffic laws are all factors that can result in accidents.
• Weather Conditions: The weather in Birmingham, including heavy rain and fog, can make driving more dangerous, especially for those who aren’t used to such conditions.
• Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Rideshare drivers are responsible for their own vehicle maintenance. Failure to do so can lead to mechanical malfunctions.

Rideshare Insurance Policies: How Coverage Works

Understanding how insurance coverage works in rideshare accidents is critical when pursuing compensation. Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the extent of this coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Here are the different stages of coverage:

1. Driver Not Logged into the App:

• If the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, only their personal auto insurance applies. Uber and Lyft’s coverage does not apply in this scenario.

2. Driver Logged into the App, but No Ride was Accepted:

• During this stage, both Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage:
  • $50,000 per person for bodily injury
  • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
  • $25,000 for property damage

3. Driver En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or During a Trip:

• When a driver is on the way to pick up a passenger or during a ride, Uber and Lyft provide a more substantial insurance policy:
  • $1 million in third-party liability coverage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
  • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (up to the vehicle’s actual cash value with a deductible)

This tiered coverage system can make claims complicated, which is why working with an experienced Birmingham rideshare accident attorney can help ensure you receive proper compensation.

Types of Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can lead to many injuries, some of which can be life-altering. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden movement during a collision can cause strain or injury to the neck muscles and ligaments, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
• Head Injuries and Concussions: Impact with the vehicle’s interior can cause mild to severe head injuries, including concussions, which can lead to headaches, dizziness, and cognitive impairment.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Severe blows to the head can result in traumatic brain injuries, which may lead to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility and quality of life.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Collisions often result in fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis, requiring surgery, immobilization, and rehabilitation.
• Lacerations and Burns: Sharp objects and vehicle fires during accidents can cause deep cuts or burns, leading to scarring, infections, and long recovery times.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement, often requiring physical therapy.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt trauma can damage internal organs, causing internal bleeding or organ failure, which may not be immediately apparent.
• Psychological Trauma: Emotional distress such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can occur after a traumatic accident, impacting daily life and well-being.

The severity of these injuries can vary, but all require prompt medical attention and may lead to long-term medical costs, rehabilitation, and loss of income.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps after the incident can protect your health and your legal rights. Here are some important actions to take:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Always get checked by a medical professional.
• Call the Police: A police report provides an official record of the accident, which is crucial for insurance claims and legal action.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
• Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft: Use the app to report the accident to the rideshare company.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer of the accident, but avoid making detailed statements until you speak with an attorney.
• Consult a Birmingham Rideshare Accident Attorney: An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complex claims process and protect your rights.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents can be challenging to determine due to the number of parties involved. Potentially liable parties may include:

• The Rideshare Driver: If their negligence caused the accident, they may be personally liable.
• Uber or Lyft: If the accident occurred while the driver was active on the app, the rideshare company’s insurance might apply.
• Other Motorists: If another driver caused or contributed to the accident, they might share liability.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable.
• Government Entities: Poor road conditions or faulty traffic signals may lead to a claim against a city or state agency.

An experienced Birmingham rideshare accident attorney will investigate the accident thoroughly to determine who is responsible and pursue claims against the appropriate parties.

Compensation in a Rideshare Accident Claim

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to the accident.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and future loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses for physical therapy or ongoing medical care.

In cases involving severe injuries, victims may also be entitled to punitive damages if the at-fault party’s behavior was particularly egregious.

Why You Need a Birmingham Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare accident claims are complicated due to the unique nature of rideshare services and the tiered insurance policies provided by companies like Uber and Lyft. A qualified rideshare accident attorney in Birmingham can:

Investigate Your Case

A thorough investigation is essential to establish liability and gather the evidence needed to support your claim. Your attorney will analyze police reports, witness statements, driver logs, and rideshare app data to build a strong case.

Identify Liability

Determining who is responsible for a rideshare accident can be challenging. An experienced attorney can identify all potentially liable parties, including the rideshare driver, Uber or Lyft, other drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or even government entities responsible for road maintenance.

Navigate Complex Insurance Policies

Understanding the layers of insurance coverage in a rideshare accident is crucial. Your attorney will determine which insurance policies apply and ensure that claims are filed correctly and within the appropriate timelines.

Negotiate with Insurers

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. A skilled rideshare accident lawyer will handle all negotiations, ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

File a Lawsuit if Necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court. They will represent your interests aggressively and present a compelling case before a judge and jury.

Protect Your Rights

Rideshare companies and insurers have legal teams working to protect their interests. Having a dedicated attorney on your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you are not taken advantage of during the claims process.

Offer Personalized Legal Support

Every accident and injury is unique. An experienced rideshare accident attorney will provide personalized advice and support, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.

Maximize Your Compensation

By leveraging their experience and resources, an attorney can help you recover the full compensation you deserve, including current and future medical costs, lost income, emotional distress, and more.

Having a knowledgeable rideshare accident attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact a Birmingham Rideshare Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Birmingham, don’t navigate the complex claims process alone. A dedicated rideshare accident attorney can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact Alabama Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC today for immediate assistance.