New Orleans Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Uber & Lyft Accidents in Louisiana
Uber and Lyft’s introduction changed the availability of transportation to many Americans. An alternative to taxicabs, rideshare services offer on-demand rides to people in most areas of the country.
However, Uber and Lyft drivers are not immune to accidents. Like any other motorist, they are prone to human error and general negligence, which can be disastrous for rideshare passengers and others on the road. To make matters worse, crashes involving Ubers, Lyfts, and other rideshare vehicles are not like typical car accident cases; they are far more complex and much more difficult to win.
To help you navigate the complexities of a rideshare accident, you need the assistance of an experienced attorney. At The Womac Law Firm, our New Orleans Uber & Lyft accident lawyers have over 36 years of experience representing personal injury clients in an array of complicated accident claims. We have helped many Uber and Lyft accident victims successfully recover compensation for their medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other losses—and we are ready to fight for you, too.
Representing the Victims of Rideshare Collisions
For a free consultation with our legal team, complete our contact form or call (504) 470-3935. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
I Was Injured in a Rideshare Accident—What Should I Do?
Being injured in a collision as an Uber or Lyft passenger can be incredibly stressful. Not only do you have to navigate the processes involved in the aftermath of any car accident, but you must also account for the involvement of the rideshare companies and their insurance providers.
The steps to take after an Uber or Lyft accident are generally the same as what to do after any car accident. You will need to get medical attention and collect evidence to begin building your case. The main difference between other car accidents and rideshare accidents is that you will be negotiating with Lyft or Uber’s insurance company, rather than the driver’s auto insurance provider.
If you were injured in a collision with an Uber or Lyft driver, but not as a passenger, your claim will proceed similarly to any car accident case. You will need to prove the fault of the rideshare driver and will pursue coverage through their auto insurance policy. You may be able to recover benefits through Uber or Lyft’s insurance, but the driver’s personal policy will typically be the primary source of compensation in these cases.
Whatever your situation is, the New Orleans Lyft & Uber accident attorneys at The Womac Law Firm can help. Reach out to us today to learn more during a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Compensation Is Available to Uber & Lyft Accident Victims?
When applicable, Uber and Lyft offer the following cover amounts:
- Period 1: When drivers are using their respective rideshare apps and are prepared to accept passengers, both companies offer $50,000 in injury coverage, $100,000 in accident coverage, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. These benefits are only available if the driver’s personal car insurance policy is not available.
- Period 2: Rideshare drivers who are on their way to pick up a passenger are covered by $1,000,000 in insurance under both Uber and Lyft’s policies. This coverage can be allotted to passengers or other drivers who are injured in a collision with the rideshare driver.
- Period 3: If the rideshare driver has the app turned on, has accepted a ride, and has the passenger in the vehicle, the $1,000,000 coverage applies, just as it does when the driver is on their way to pick up the passenger. This is true for both Uber and Lyft.
Call (504) 470-3935 or contact us online.
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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What Are the Most Common Injuries in a Car Accident?
Unfortunately, car accidents often result in life-altering injuries, disability, and death.
Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Serious lacerations and contusions
- Slipped, ruptured, or herniated discs
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Back and neck injuries
- Accidental amputation
- Soft tissue damage
For injured victims and the surviving loved ones of those wrongfully killed, the road to recovery can be long, difficult, and painful. While a successful accident claim cannot undo the pain and suffering you and your family have experienced, it can provide you with the economic resources you need to move forward.
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What Can I Seek Compensation for After an Accident?
After an auto accident, you are likely to face a number of significant challenges. You may need extensive, ongoing medical treatment for your injuries; you may be out of work for weeks, months, or even years while you recover.
This can leave you uncertain as to how you will keep up with mounting medical bills and everyday expenses—on top of dealing with the immense pain and suffering the accident has caused you.
At The Womac Law Firm, we can help you fight for maximum compensation for your damages, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses
- Hospital bills
- Rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Future medical expense
- Future lost earnings
- Lost earning ability/disability
- Property damage
In some cases, we may also be able to pursue punitive damages, which are meant to punish liable parties for wanton or willful negligence, such as driving while intoxicated.
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What Happens If I Settle Without an Attorney?
When you report a car accident to your insurance company or the other party’s insurance provider, they will typically begin calling you and trying to settle your claim. Some insurance companies will offer you a fair settlement to ensure all your expenses are covered, including medical bills and physical damages. However, many insurance companies only care about their bottom lines and will do their best to minimize your claim to avoid a big payout.
We cannot guarantee positive results for every client, but in most cases, hiring a car accident attorney to handle your claim increases your recovery amount by 2 – 3 times! If you haven't settled with your insurance company, call our office as soon as possible to discuss your case with our New Orleans car accident lawyers.
Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Lyft and Uber have insurance policies in place to cover the expenses that result from accidents involving their drivers. However, the specific circumstances involved play a large role in whether Uber/Lyft offer coverage and what amount of compensation is available.
Generally speaking, you can only hold Uber or Lyft liable for an accident when the rideshare driver had the app turned on when the collision occurred. If the driver did not have the app on, the rideshare company is not liable. Additionally, Uber and Lyft only offer coverage when their drivers are at fault. When another person, such as a third-party motorist, causes an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, injured victims must seek compensation by bringing a claim against the at-fault person or party.
