Have You Been In A Rideshare Accident?

If you are involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver in Kentucky, as another driver or a passenger in a rideshare service, hiring a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident is advisable. The legal landscape involving rideshare companies can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, such as the rideshare company, the driver, other vehicles and insurance providers.

At Foreman Watson Holtrey, LLP, in Owensboro, our personal injury lawyers can help you with holding responsible parties accountable for their harm. Drawing from more than two decades of legal experience, we will assist you in understanding the specific insurance policies that apply, as Uber and Lyft provide different coverage levels depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

Our attorneys will also advocate for your best interests. We aim to secure rightful compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. We will handle the negotiations with insurance companies, who often aim to minimize payouts. Our goal is to protect your rights to the compensation you have a right to receive.

Rideshare Safety And Accident Risks

Rideshare accidents frequently raise community concern about the level of training and safety protocols that rideshare drivers receive. Are rideshare service drivers well-trained? Do they prioritize safe driving practices? Other community concerns include:

• Accident rates and insurance: The number of accidents involving rideshare drivers is a concern. Questions about the adequacy of insurance coverage for both drivers and passengers during rideshare trips frequently arise.
• Driver fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, which can lead to fatigue and potentially increase the risk of accidents. Addressing driver work hours and ensuring they have adequate rest is a significant concern.
• Regulation and oversight: The regulation of rideshare companies is a topic of ongoing debate. These companies must adhere to safety standards and be held accountable for their drivers’ actions.
• Infrastructure and traffic: The impact of rideshare services on local traffic and infrastructure can contribute to accident rates. Cities are exploring how to manage increased rideshare activity while maintaining safe roadways.
• Technology and auto safety features: The use of technology to enhance safety, such as in-app safety features and real-time monitoring, is an area of focus.

Rideshare accountability involves cooperation between existing and emerging rideshare companies, lawmakers and the community to ensure safety for both drivers and passengers.

Uber/Lyft Accidents: How Long Do I Have To File A Claim?

In Kentucky, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally two years. This period begins either from the date of the accident or from the date of the last no-fault medical payment, whichever is later. Exceptions may apply. Consult with a personal injury attorney at Foreman Watson Holtrey, LLP, for legal advice based on the facts of your case so you do not miss critical deadlines.

Does It Matter Who Is At Fault?

Kentucky is a “no-fault” state for car insurance. It normally does not matter who is at fault for an accident when it comes to obtaining compensation for your injuries. This means that after a rideshare accident, you would usually turn to your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to pay for medical expenses and other losses, regardless of who caused the accident.

However, if your injuries exceed a certain threshold, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the driver responsible for the accident. This could be the rideshare driver, another driver involved in the accident or the rideshare company. The right action will depend on the facts surrounding your accident injuries.

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that may cover your injuries. Their insurance representatives might attempt to minimize or dismiss your claim if they determine their driver was not logged into their app and available to accept rides, or if they were in the process of completing a trip.

Talk to us. Our legal team is here for you. We will provide guidance based on the specific details of your situation. We will help you determine the best course of action for seeking compensation for your injuries.

Will The Rideshare Company Cover My Expenses?

Whether a rideshare company will cover your expenses after an accident injury depends on several factors, including the circumstances of the accident and the insurance policies in place. In most instances, the rideshare company provides insurance coverage for drivers and passengers during specific periods of a trip.

For example, if the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, or if the ride is in progress, the company’s insurance policy usually covers certain expenses related to an accident. This coverage often includes liability for bodily injuries and property damage and may also include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. However, the specifics can vary. Remember to review the rideshare company’s insurance policy details and consult with a legal professional to understand your coverage and rights fully.

Should You File A Lawsuit?

If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft rideshare accident, consult our knowledgeable car accident lawyers to determine how to file a claim for your injuries. Has your loved one died as a result of rideshare accident injuries? We will help you understand your rights to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Contact us. Call 270-446-5879 or send an email for a free consultation to discuss your legal options. We have been serving clients across the state since 1994.