The surge in rideshare services nationwide is undeniable, with Arizona seeing a massive rise in usage. This trend, offering the convenience of summoning a driver and vehicle instantly, has captivated many. However, it raises significant concerns about the business model and liability in accidents.
Riding in a rideshare vehicle carries the same accident risks as any other vehicle. Yet, the aftermath of a rideshare accident often brings more convoluted insurance issues that can be difficult to navigate alone.
At Zanes Law, our Paradise Valley rideshare accident lawyers understand these intricacies. With a 99% win rate, we are committed to helping victims secure the financial compensation and accountability they deserve. Our experienced team of Paradise Valley car accident lawyers is ready to tackle the challenges of your claim.
Common Circumstances of Rideshare Accidents
It’s vital to recognize that it’s not just passengers using rideshare services who are at risk of serious injury or worse. Pedestrians, bystanders, and other drivers are also highly vulnerable in accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles. Our Paradise Valley personal injury lawyers know the ins and outs of these cases.
The causes of rideshare collisions are varied and can include:
- Distracted driving or texting while driving: Inattentive driving is the leading cause of motor vehicle accidents nationwide. Even a brief distraction can result in a devastating accident.
- Driver fatigue: Driving while drowsy is just as hazardous as driving under the influence. If a fatigued driver caused the incident, it is essential to have an experienced lawyer to help collect the crucial evidence needed to establish liability.
- Negligent maintenance of vehicles: If poor vehicle maintenance leads to a rideshare accident, the party responsible for maintaining the vehicle is liable for all resulting damages.
- Excessive speed: Speeding is a major contributor to fatal accidents each year. It increases both the likelihood of an accident and the severity of injuries.
- Driver intoxication (alcohol or drugs): Driving under the influence is illegal and punishable by heavy fines, jail time, and license suspension. These penalties increase if the intoxicated driver causes injury or death.
- Disregard for traffic rules: Reckless driving not only causes serious accidents and economic losses but can also result in criminal charges for the at-fault driver.
Each of these factors can lead to severe, sometimes permanent harm. Those affected must seek the compensation they deserve.
Given the confusing liability issues in rideshare accidents, the assistance of a knowledgeable Paradise Valley rideshare accident attorney is essential in navigating the most effective legal course. Our case results speak for themselves.
For a free legal consultation with a rideshare accidents lawyer serving Paradise Valley, call (866) 499-8989
Insurance Coverage: do Uber and Lyft Have It?
In the wake of an Uber accident, evaluating the available insurance coverage is crucial. Generally, Uber offers up to $1 million in liability coverage, along with an additional $1 million for uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
However, it’s important to note that these coverage amounts apply only if the driver is logged into the rideshare app at the time of the incident. This condition raises significant concerns about responsibility for damages if a crash occurs when the driver is not actively engaged in Uber or Lyft-related activities.
Determining who is liable for losses in such scenarios can be a bit muddy. Understanding the specifics of Uber’s insurance policies and how they apply to different situations is essential for anyone involved in a rideshare accident.
Paradise Valley Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (866) 499-8989
Liability in a Paradise Valley Rideshare Accident
Determining which insured party is responsible for covering injury and property damage expenses in rideshare incidents can be messy. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have a tiered insurance system for their drivers, who are often categorized as independent contractors:
- With a Passenger or En Route: When a driver has a passenger or is on the way to pick one up and an accident occurs, Uber and Lyft offer a $1 million liability insurance policy to cover all parties involved.
- Off the Clock: If a rideshare driver is not logged into the app and is on personal time when a collision occurs, their personal insurance carrier is responsible for any damages.
- Logged In but Without a Passenger: If a driver is logged into the app but has not yet picked up a passenger, their personal insurance is primarily responsible. Uber and Lyft provide limited coverage, stepping in only if the personal insurance company denies the claim or its coverage limits are exhausted.
The liability insurance offered by a rideshare company depends on the specific stage of the ride at the time of the accident.
Additionally, you may be entitled to coverage from other sources, such as the rideshare driver or another motorist involved in the crash. In some cases, it might be possible to hold multiple parties liable for the accident.
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Damages that Can Be Recovered After a Rideshare Accident
Pursuing accountability for a rideshare accident in Paradise Valley can secure financial compensation for various losses. Known as damages, this compensation varies for each case but generally falls into three primary categories:
- Economic Damages: These reimburse the monetary losses related to your Lyft or Uber accident, such as property damage, medical expenses, lost income, transportation expenses, and other out-of-pocket expenditures.
- Noneconomic Damages: These address non-financial losses, including physical pain, suffering, disability, diminished quality of life, mental anguish, emotional distress, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
- Punitive damages: Punitive damages occur in rare instances to penalize the defendant for particularly wrongful or egregious behavior, such as gross negligence.
You may be eligible to recover one or all of these types of damages as an Uber or Lyft accident victim. Before accepting any settlement from a rideshare company or insurance company, consult with a Paradise Valley rideshare accident attorney.
An experienced attorney will accurately evaluate your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, working solely for your benefit, not for an insurer or third party.
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Zanes Law’s Paradise Valley Rideshare Accident Attorneys Won’t Stop Fighting for You
Dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, with muddied insurance policies and multiple potential sources of compensation. At Zanes Law, our Paradise Valley rideshare accident lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the process.
Our team is dedicated to fighting for the financial compensation you deserve. Don’t settle for less than what you are entitled to.
Trust Zanes Law to provide the aggressive representation and compassionate support you need to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
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