As the use of ridesharing companies such as Lyft and Uber continues to grow, a recent study shows that an increase in the likelihood of a Northern Virginia rideshare accident is inevitable. Figuring out who is liable and filing a car accident claim in this scenario can be confusing.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a North Virginia rideshare accident, the Northern Virginia Lyft & Uber accident attorneys at the personal injury law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
Why Choose Our Northern Virginia Rideshare Attorney?
- Our team of attorneys has been handling car accident cases successfully for more than 38 years.
- We want everyone to have access to quality legal representation, which is why we won’t charge you a fee unless we win your case.
- Our firm is up-to-date on the issues and laws related to Lyft and Uber accidents.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Northern Virginia
Distracted driving is one of the many common causes of rideshare accidents in a Lyft or Uber vehicle. Drivers often heavily rely on GPS for directions to reach destinations as well as the company app in which they accept or decline ride requests. They may use their hands to interact with either app while driving, which poses a very significant risk of an accident occurring. Passengers may also be distracting to the driver, especially if they are sick or intoxicated.
Some of other most common contributing factors in Lyft and Uber accidents are speeding, disobeying traffic signs, running red lights, following other cars too closely, driving under the influence, and failing to perform vehicle maintenance.
What To Do After One
First and foremost, seek medical care after being injured in a Lyft or Uber accident. Secondly, whether you were a passenger in the rideshare vehicle, an injured pedestrian, or your car was hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, be sure that the accident is reported to the police. A police report can be crucial to substantiate your claim. If you are physically able, write down as many facts about the accident as possible and take photographs and/or video of the scene. Also, get the contact information for all parties involved and any witnesses. Next, it is critical that you alert Lyft or Uber about the incident. Lastly, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer experienced with these types of cases so that you can find out your legal rights and options.
Who is Liable in a Uber or Lyft Accident in Northern Virginia?
If a Lyft or Uber driver was at fault for an accident, the amount of liability coverage both companies provide varies based on the following scenarios:
If the driver was logged into the app but hadn’t accepted a ride request, Lyft/Uber provides liability coverage up to:
- $50,000 per person injured in the accident
- $100,000 total injury liability for the accident
- $25,000 for property damage
If the driver has accepted a ride request, Lyft/Uber provides $1 million in liability coverage.
If the at-fault driver was not logged into the company’s app at the time of the accident, then Lyft/Uber will not provide coverage. In this case, the driver’s personal insurance policy would be liable for damages.
Why You Need a Lyft & Uber Accident Lawyer in Northern Virginia
Unfortunately, Lyft and Uber can be difficult to work with when one of their drivers is responsible for causing an accident. They may try to find ways to avoid liability or place it on the driver, claiming that they are an independent contractor. A lawyer who has experience handling Lyft & Uber accident cases will protect you from insurance tactics and ensure the necessary insurance claims are filed. They will also compile the documentation and evidence necessary for a successful claim and pursue the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.
Speak to A Qualified Virginia Lyft & Uber Accident Attorney Today
The team of Lyft/Uber accident lawyers at the law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP have extensive experience handling these kinds of cases as well as dealing with car insurance companies. We can take on all of your accident-related concerns, we want you to focus on healing. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP assists victims of Lyft & Uber accidents throughout Virginia.