Tulsa Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer
In today’s world, technology and convenience go hand in hand. Uber and Lyft, the leading rideshare services in the United States, are prime examples. These popular ridesharing apps offer the ease of hailing a ride at the tap of a button.
These services have become fundamental to the way many of us get around. But according to a major university study, they have also led to an increase in car crashes.
If you have suffered injuries in a car accident involving Uber or Lyft, the Tulsa attorneys at Edwards & Patterson Law are ready to stand with you. We are well-versed in the intricacies of rideshare laws and insurance company policies. Our team is passionate about helping our clients demand the full and fair compensation they deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation with a Tulsa Uber accident lawyer, and let’s find a path forward together.
How Do Rideshare Services Like Uber and Lyft Work?
Market competitors Uber and Lyft use smartphone apps to connect riders to drivers in their area. Once a person requests a ride, the app sends the request to nearby drivers. When a driver accepts the request, the app provides the driver with the rider’s location, and the journey begins. Upon reaching the destination, the app calculates the fare and charges the rider’s credit card on file. While they fill the same need as traditional taxi companies, the crucial distinction is that their drivers are not professionals.
Do Uber and Lyft Have Certain Standards for Who They Hire As Drivers?
Both Uber and Lyft have set criteria that potential drivers must meet to offer rideshare services. These criteria include minimum age requirements, clean driving records, and passing a background check. The drivers’ vehicles must also meet certain safety standards and pass an inspection.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a Rideshare Accident with Uber or Lyft?
If you’ve been hurt in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, you should:
- Seek medical attention if you haven’t already.
- Alert the rideshare company via the app if you were a rider.
- Notify the police, either at the scene or by submitting an accident report after the fact. This report can serve as a critical piece of evidence in your case.
- Contact the Tulsa Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Edwards & Patterson Law to understand your rights and options.
Who Can Be Held At Fault in a Rideshare Accident?
Identifying the at-fault party in a rideshare accident can be complex due to the many potential variables involved. Depending on the specific circumstances, fault could lie with any or several of the following parties:
- The rideshare driver
- Another motorist or road user
- The rideshare company itself
- The manufacturer of a defective auto part
- A property owner or government entity that did not adequately design or maintain a dangerous roadway
The party at fault for the accident and the “phase” the rideshare driver was in at the time can affect what compensation may be available to you. That’s why it’s crucial to seek help from an experienced Uber and Lyft attorney in Tulsa.
What Levels of Insurance Do Uber and Lyft Provide?
Both Uber and Lyft carry commercial insurance policies that provide coverage when the driver is working on their behalf. However, the coverage levels differ depending on the driver’s status.
If the driver has the app off, their own insurance policy is in effect. When the driver has the app on and is waiting for a rider, the rideshare company provides third-party coverage of:
- $50,000 in bodily injury per person
- $100,000 in bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 in property damage per accident
The coverage increases significantly once the driver accepts a ride and while transporting a passenger, offering:
- Up to $1 million for third-party liability
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
- Comprehensive and collision insurance, in certain circumstances
What If My Damages Are More Than Uber’s and Lyft’s Policies Cover?
If your damages exceed the coverage provided by Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance policies, you may have access to other avenues for compensation. These can include the rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy or even your own insurance policies, such as UM/UIM, MedPay, or health insurance. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options and pursue all potential sources of compensation. Contact our Tulsa personal injury attorney today.
What If My Rideshare Ride Is Hit By Another Driver?
If another driver hits the Uber or Lyft vehicle you’re riding in, that driver is likely to blame for the accident. In this scenario, you may be entitled to file a claim against that driver’s liability insurance policy or a lawsuit against them directly. In situations where the other driver’s insurance is insufficient or they’re uninsured, Uber’s and Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can step in to provide compensation. Contact our Tulsa car accident lawyer now.
What Compensation Can I Get for My Injuries?
Depending on the circumstances of the Uber or Lyft accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your:
- Medical care bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced earning capacity
How Long Do I Have to File an Uber/Lyft Accident Lawsuit in Oklahoma?
The limitation period for personal injury claims in Oklahoma, including those involving Uber and Lyft accidents, is two years from the accident date. You must file a lawsuit within this time frame to seek compensation for your injuries.
Contact a Tulsa Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer
Rideshare accidents can cause physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial mayhem. At Edwards & Patterson Law, we offer more than legal experience – we offer peace of mind. Our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers approach every case with a combination of compassion, commitment, and tenacity. We want to make your fight for justice our own. Our team understands the gravity of your situation and has the resources to pursue the maximum compensation possible for your injuries.
Contact us today for a free consultation with an Uber and Lyft accident attorney in Tulsa.