Uber and Lyft Accidents in Washington, DC & Maryland

There are so many benefits to rideshare services such as Lyft and Uber. They’re reasonably priced, and incredibly easy to reserve with just a few taps of their apps, the vehicles are usually spotless and driven by friendly locals who have plenty to recommend about their cities, and they offer vehicles of every size to accommodate whatever type of ride you need. Plus, they serve as important designated drivers, which in a way makes rideshares potentially life-saving services. But what happens if you’re a passenger–or even a driver–in a rideshare vehicle when an accident occurs?

When You’re a Passenger in a Rideshare Accident

When using a rideshare service, most people assume they’re in for a safe trip. After all, they’re not driving or dealing with all the related hassles of driving yourself from Point A to Point B. But, because Uber and Lyft want their drivers to make as many passenger pickups as possible (more trips = more money), these rideshare drivers can often be overworked, distracted, and flat-out exhausted. Furthermore, they may not be exercising as much caution as they should because of the rushed nature of the business. These factors significantly increase the chance of an accident. If you’re using a rideshare service, and you’re injured in an accident, you’re more than likely covered by either the rideshare company’s insurance, the other driver’s vehicle insurance, or the rideshare driver’s personal insurance. Lyft and Uber both fully ensure passengers from the time they get into the vehicle until the time they get out. However, rideshare personal injury claims are notoriously tricky and complicated. That’s when you need the Washington Rideshare Accident Attorneys at The Lapidus Law Firm.

Who’s Responsible for Injuries in a Rideshare Accident?

Like any other multi-billion-dollar corporation, Uber and Lyft are in business to make money. Makes sense, right? So, when it comes to determining who’s liable for injuries sustained in rideshare accidents, these businesses will look for ways to minimize their settlement payouts. While the insurance policies required of Lyft and Uber drivers would seemingly cover and compensate for medical expenses and lost wages of an accident victim, you’re still at the mercy of their insurance companies. Their policies and coverage can be extremely selective, so if your accident doesn’t mesh with their policy rules, they can deny your claims. Which (you guessed it) saves them quite a bit of money. This is why you must get your own lawyer.  THEIR team of lawyers is counting on your NOT to know the rules, laws, and regulations, but WE DO! It’s our job to help.

If You’re a Rideshare Driver

All Lyft and Uber drivers are required to have personal auto insurance. But the second you use the app to pick up passengers, you’re covered by the company’s insurance–not your individual policy. And their insurance may have gaps, depending on which phase of their coverage is eligible.  If you happen to be involved in an accident and are injured while you’re in one of those insurance gaps, you could be in for some real problems. Not to mention, many insurance companies will deny the rideshare driver’s claims simply because they’re rideshare drivers. So, if you’re a driver and you’re injured in an accident, what’s going to happen if your claim is denied? Then you’re on the hook for potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses, potentially more if there’s a lawsuit involved. It can be ruinous for someone driving for a rideshare service and trying to make an honest living.

Washington, DC and Maryland Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, if you’re injured in a rideshare accident in Washington, DC or in Maryland, you are most definitely going to want attorneys who are experienced with these types of cases and know how insurance companies operate. Call the Lapidus Law Firm’s Washington Rideshare Accident Attorneys today at (202) 785-5111 to set up your initial no-obligation, no-cost consultation. We’ll review your case and then work tirelessly as we handle all the negotiations and discussions with the rideshare attorneys and insurance companies to get you a fair and reasonable settlement.