Uber, Lyft & Rideshare Accidents
Practice
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel, offering convenience and accessibility. However, with the increased use of these services, the number of accidents involving rideshare vehicles has also risen. In Colorado, rideshare accidents have become a significant concern, reflecting a broader national trend. According to a study by the University of Chicago, the introduction of rideshare services has led to a 2-3% increase in traffic fatalities across the United States. As the use of rideshare services continues to grow, so does the need for specialized legal representation for those involved in these accidents.
What Makes Rideshare Accident Cases Different
The introduction of rideshare services has led to a 2-3% increase in traffic fatalities across the U.S.
It seems unusual to see a traditional taxi or cab downtown in many modern U.S. cities like Denver, as services like Uber and Lyft now rule the streets. However, this evolution from cabs to personal vehicles has also brought with it a change in how accidents are handled from a legal perspective.
Insurance Coverage
Rideshare Accidents: Rideshare drivers use personal vehicles, covered by personal insurance and additional rideshare company insurance. Coverage varies based on driver status (offline, app on, or during a ride).
Taxi Accidents: Taxis have continuous commercial insurance coverage provided by taxi companies, ensuring coverage at all times when in service.
Driver Employment Status
Rideshare Accidents: Rideshare drivers use personal vehicles, covered by personal insurance and additional rideshare company insurance. Coverage varies based on driver status (offline, app on, or during a ride).
Taxi Accidents: Taxi drivers are often employees or contracted more formally, making it easier to hold the taxi company liable under employer responsibility doctrines.
Regulatory Oversight
Rideshare Accidents: Subject to state and local regulations, often less stringent initially, with oversight by bodies like Colorado’s Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
Taxi Accidents: Governed by strict local and state regulations, including regular inspections and higher insurance requirements, ensuring more uniform compliance.
Liability Issues
Rideshare Accidents: Involves multiple parties, with rideshare companies often deflecting direct liability by classifying drivers as contractors.
Taxi Accidents: Easier to attribute liability directly to taxi companies, especially if drivers are full-time employees.
What Makes Rideshare Cases Complex
Accidents involving Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare services are often more complex than typical car accidents due to a number of factors.
- Multiple Parties Involved: Accidents can involve the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, other drivers, and passengers, making it challenging to determine liability
- Insurance Coverage: Rideshare companies provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or carrying a passenger. Navigating these varying coverage levels requires expertise
- Regulatory Differences: Rideshare services are subject to different regulations and requirements, adding another layer of complexity to these cases
- Employment Status: Rideshare drivers are often classified as independent contractors rather than employees, which can complicate liability and compensation issues
Regulations & Requirements for Rideshare Vehicles in Colorado
- Driver Requirements:
– Drivers must be at least 21 years old.
– They must have a valid driver’s license, although it doesn’t need to be a Colorado license.
– They must have proof of auto insurance and a valid Colorado auto registration.
– They must submit a certification that they are medically fit to drive - Background Checks: Rideshare drivers must undergo background checks, including driving history and criminal record reviews.
- Vehicle Inspections: Vehicles used for rideshare services must pass regular safety inspections to ensure they are in good condition.
- Insurance Requirements: Rideshare companies must provide liability insurance, which often varies based on the driver’s status. When a driver is logged into the app but not engaged in a ride, they are covered by a lower level of insurance. The coverage increases significantly once a ride is accepted or a passenger is on board.
- Driver Training: Traditional taxi drivers were typically required to complete specific training programs to ensure they were prepared to transport passengers safely. By comparison, the driver training required for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may seem more administrative.
What to Do If You’ve Been Involved in a Rideshare Accident
Being involved in a rideshare accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience. However, taking the right steps immediately following the incident can significantly impact your ability to receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages.
Ensure Safety
First and foremost, ensure the safety of everyone involved. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if anyone needs immediate medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
Report the Accident
- To the Police: Contact the police to report the accident. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be crucial for insurance claims and any legal actions that might follow.
- To the Rideshare Company: Use the rideshare company’s app to report the accident. Companies like Uber and Lyft have procedures in place for handling accident reports. This step ensures the incident is officially recorded with the rideshare company.
Gather Information
Collecting detailed information at the scene is essential for building a strong case:
- From All Parties Involved: Obtain names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details from all drivers involved in the accident.
- From Witnesses: If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well.
- Photographs and Documentation: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, visible injuries, road conditions, and traffic signs. This visual evidence can be vital in supporting your claim.
- Accident Report: Make sure that the police fill out an official report that can be requested by your attorney later. This document will provide an official account of the incident, which is important for insurance and legal purposes.
Contact an Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, such as the rideshare company, insurance companies, and other drivers. Consulting with an experienced Colorado rideshare accident attorney can be immensely beneficial:
- Legal Guidance: They can help you understand your rights and the legal options available to you.
- Building Your Case: They can assist in gathering additional evidence, such as dashcam footage or expert testimony, and ensure all documentation is properly filed.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Experienced lawyers can handle negotiations with insurance companies, striving to secure a fair settlement that covers all your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Litigation: If necessary, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Follow Up
After the initial steps, follow up with medical appointments and keep detailed records of all medical expenses and any other costs related to the accident. Staying organized and keeping thorough documentation will support your claim and help ensure you receive fair compensation.
Colorado Rideshare Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Colorado and believe you may have a case, don’t wait to seek legal help. These accidents involve unique challenges, including determining liability, navigating complex insurance policies, and adhering to specific regulations.
At Legal Help in Colorado, we are dedicated to understanding these complexities and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Our team of Denver rideshare accident attorneys has a proven track record of success in handling rideshare accident cases. We use our expertise to investigate your accident thoroughly, gather necessary evidence, and build a compelling case to secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today and let our team help you pursue justice and financial recovery.
Contact Legal Help in Colorado
Ross Ziev and his team at Legal Help in Colorado are regarded as one of Denver’s leading rideshare accident attorneys and experienced lawyers for these types of incidents. We specialize in representing personal injury victims, handling negotiations with insurance companies, and providing representation in court. We operate on a contingency fee basis, relieving you of concerns about payment until you receive your rightful compensation.
Need help understanding your rights?
We’re here to help. Reach out to us using our Contact page or visit our FAQ page to learn more. You can also book your free case consultation by filling out our Contact form or by calling us. Remember, you don’t pay until we receive a settlement!
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