Canton Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Uber & Lyft Accidents in Georgia
Rideshare apps, like Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient and cost-effective way to get around. They even offer a safe alternative to driving home after drinking—but whether you’re making the smart choice after a night out or simply getting around town, taking a rideshare does not automatically mean you will not be involved in an accident.
Unfortunately, rideshare accidents are a reality, and the consequences can be severe. To make matters worse, filing an accident claim after an Uber or Lyft crash can be incredibly complicated. It’s important that you discuss your options with an experienced attorney.
At Hasty Pope, LLP, our Canton rideshare accident attorneys can help you get back on your feet after a serious crash. We understand the challenges you are up against, and we know how to effectively advocate for you and your recovery. As a family-run law firm with deep roots in the local community, our team is here for you every step of the way.
Contact us online or call our office at (770) 741-1951 to request a free, no-obligation consultation.
Can You Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident?
If you were injured in an accident caused by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may be wondering whether you can bring a personal injury lawsuit against the driver’s respective rideshare company. Unfortunately, the answer is not always clear.
In standard car accident cases in Georgia, the injured party can bring a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. When the driver of the other vehicle is operating a commercial vehicle, such as a semi-truck or bus, the injured party can typically sue the driver’s employer and recover compensation through their insurance provider. However, rideshare drivers are neither private motorists nor employees; Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as “independent contractors.” This limits their liability in the event of an accident—and makes it more difficult to bring a claim.
Depending on the specifics of your situation, you may be able to sue Uber or Lyft after an accident. You will need to prove that the rideshare driver was at fault for the crash, and you will need to prove that the rideshare company is legally liable. Both of these elements can be exceedingly difficult to prove without the help of an experienced attorney. We encourage you to reach out to our Canton rideshare accident lawyers today to learn how Hasty Pope, LLP can help you with your Uber or Lyft accident case.
What Compensation Is Available After a Rideshare Accident?
Whether you bring a claim against the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, or a third party, you will most likely be able to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages resulting from the accident.
Examples of common damages in rideshare accident claims include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income/wages
- Disability/lost earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Lost quality of life
- Future lost earnings
- Future medical costs
- Property (vehicle) damage
Both Uber and Lyft offer coverage when one of their drivers is at fault for an accident. This coverage only applies when the driver had the app turned on; if the driver was not actively driving for their rideshare company when the accident occurred, you will need to pursue a standard car accident claim against the driver’s private auto insurance provider.
Uber and Lyft offer limited coverage when their drivers have the app turned on and have not yet accepted a ride. Additionally, both rideshare companies offer up to $1 million when their drivers have the app turned on and have accepted a ride, regardless of whether the passenger is in the vehicle.
How an Attorney from Hasty Pope, LLP Can Help
Whether you were injured as an Uber passenger or the occupant of another vehicle that was hit by a Lyft driver, it is important that you know your rights after a rideshare accident. First and foremost, you should know that your time to file a claim is limited to two years from the date of the accident in most cases. If you fail to bring a lawsuit within this timeframe, you will be unable to collect compensation for your damages.
Additionally, you should know that you have the right to talk to a personal injury lawyer about your legal options. At Hasty Pope, LLP, we offer free initial consultations and do not collect any attorneys’ fees unless/until we win your case. You have nothing to lose in reaching out to our team today.
When you become a client of Hasty Pope, LLP, you can count on receiving compassionate, personalized attention and guidance every step of the way. Our Canton rideshare accident lawyers will handle every legal detail—from investigating the accident to negotiating with the rideshare company’s insurance provider to litigating your case. This allows you to focus on what matters most: healing.
To learn more, please contact us today at (770) 741-1951.