Although rideshare services are convenient for getting around the city, the drivers are not professionally trained. Anyone with a decent vehicle can become an Uber or Lyft driver. Has a rideshare driver’s negligence left you injured? These cases are more complex, requiring the help of a rideshare attorney in Tacoma with the skills to pursue full compensation.
Rideshare Company Insurance: When You Are Covered
All Uber and Lyft drivers must carry personal auto insurance. The rideshare company insures the driver only when the driver is picking up a passenger or transporting them. The company does not cover the driver when the driver is not using the app. In these cases, the driver’s auto insurance kicks in.
Types of Rideshare Accidents
A rideshare driver can cause injuries to others in various scenarios. A rideshare accident could injure you if you are:
- A passenger: You can get hurt in a car crash while riding in a rideshare driver’s vehicle. The driver might be at fault if they run a red light, speed, or behave carelessly.
- The occupant of another car: An accident involving a rideshare driver causes an accident that injures a driver or passenger in another vehicle.
- A bicyclist or pedestrian: A rideshare driver may injure non-motorists, such as a bicyclist or pedestrian.
Compensation in Rideshare Accidents
You can hold the rideshare company liable for the driver’s negligent actions with the help of our experienced rideshare accident attorney in Tacoma. The damages pursued will include the following:
- Economic damages: These are the hard costs associated with an injury. They include medical bills, lost wages, and future earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages: These are more subjective losses, including pain and suffering, emotional anguish, loss of companionship, reduced quality of life, and the impact of disfiguring or life-altering injuries.
Determining the value of a rideshare accident requires legal knowledge and skill. At Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers, we have over 30 staff members and established relationships with top experts who can assist in determining the value of all damages. Our legal team collaborates on serious injury cases, including rideshare accidents, to ensure our clients pursue every form of compensation. As litigators, we are proud to have achieved a reputation for legal excellence and honored by the trust our clients put in us.
Contact an Experienced Tacoma Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
With over 20 years of experience and a track record of handling over 15,000 personal injury cases, our firm is trusted by clients across the community. Our reputation for dependable representation and five-star reviews on Google highlights our commitment to excellence. We also hold an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting high ethical standards and legal expertise. When you hire our Tacoma uber and lyft lawyers, you receive personalized attention and guidance throughout your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in Tacoma?
After ensuring your safety and seeking medical attention, call the police to report the accident. Gather evidence such as photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and contact information for the driver and witnesses. If you were a rideshare passenger, screenshot your trip details and contact a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes. Washington follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your percentage of responsibility will reduce your compensation.
What if the rideshare driver was intoxicated or distracted at the time of the crash?
If the driver was impaired or distracted, this constitutes negligence and can strengthen your claim. Your attorney can investigate further by obtaining police reports, app data, and phone records to prove liability and maximize compensation.
Can I sue both Uber/Lyft and the driver personally?
In some cases, yes. If the driver’s behavior was grossly negligent or outside the scope of their employment, a dual claim against the driver and the rideshare company may be appropriate.
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident lawsuit in Washington State?
You typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under Washington’s statute of limitations. However, it’s best to begin the process as soon as possible to preserve evidence and witness testimony.
What happens if the rideshare driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the driver lacks adequate coverage, Uber and Lyft’s insurance may still apply depending on the driver’s status within the app at the time. In some cases, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may also be a backup option.
Can I file a claim if I was hit by a rideshare vehicle as a pedestrian?
Yes. Pedestrians injured by a rideshare vehicle may be eligible for compensation through the driver’s or rideshare company’s insurance, depending on the circumstances. A lawyer can help clarify liability and pursue all applicable policies.
Will my rideshare accident case go to trial?
Most cases settle out of court through negotiation or mediation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit and preparing for trial to pursue the compensation you deserve.
How can I prove the driver was actively working for Uber or Lyft during the accident?
Your attorney can subpoena rideshare app data, including driver logs and timestamps, to prove the driver was on the clock. This is crucial to activating Uber or Lyft’s commercial insurance coverage.
What are the risks of handling a rideshare accident claim without a lawyer?
Rideshare claims involve multiple insurance companies, shifting liability, and complex app usage rules. Without an attorney, you risk accepting a lowball offer, missing key deadlines, or facing legal loopholes that could jeopardize your claim.
