Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers in Springfield, Illinois
Injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? Talk to our Springfield attorneys today
Accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles can leave victims injured and uncertain about their rights. If you've been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, seeking proper legal guidance is paramount. At Glisson Law, our team of dedicated Springfield Uber and Lyft accident attorneys understand the intricacies of these cases. From investigating the circumstances of the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress, we are committed to delivering compassionate and effective legal representation. We are ready to fiercely advocate for your rights.
How can we help?
What are the current rideshare accident statistics?
In the first quarter of 2023, 130 million people used the Uber app at least once per month.
Uber’s most recent safety statistics cover the years 2019-2020 and include the following:
- 101 fatalities across 91 fatal crashes.
- 32% of fatalities involved at least one driver speeding. 91% of these were third-party drivers; i.e. not the Uber driver.
- 15% of fatalities involved a driver going the wrong way. 100% of these were third-party drivers.
- 15% of fatalities involved an unbuckled Uber rider.
- 42% of fatalities were vulnerable road users, meaning pedestrians, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and scooter riders.
Also per Uber, “in 2019 and 2020, 20 fatalities were reported in a total of 19 physical assault incidents in relation to Uber. Of these fatalities, 75% (n=15) were riders using the Uber app, and 25% (n=5) were drivers using the Uber app.”
In 2022, Lyft had over 20 million active riders, an 8.5% increase over 2021.
Lyft’s most recent safety statistics cover the year 2019 and include the following:
- 49 reports of motor vehicle fatalities.
- 4 reports of fatal physical assaults.
Lyft’s statistics do not go into a lot of detail as compared to Uber.
Why are Uber and Lyft accidents unique?
Rideshare accidents can be more complex than typical car accidents for a few reasons:
- Multiple parties involved: In a regular accident, it's usually two drivers. But with rideshare, there's potentially the rideshare driver, the passenger, the rideshare company itself, and other involved drivers depending on the scenario. This means determining fault and who is liable for damages can be trickier.
- Insurance issues: Rideshare drivers typically have personal insurance, but the rideshare company also often carries insurance policies that apply during different stages of a trip (e.g., driver logged into the app but with no passenger, or with a passenger on board). Figuring out which insurance applies when can be complicated.
- Driver classification: Rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This can affect the type of insurance coverage available and the rideshare company's responsibility in an accident.
What types of injuries are common in Springfield rideshare accidents?
The types of injuries common in rideshare accidents can vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the accident. However, some common injuries that passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and others may sustain in rideshare accidents include:
- Head and brain injuries: These can range from mild concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may occur due to impact with the interior of the vehicle or external objects.
- Broken bones: Fractures and breaks in the arms, legs, ribs, and other bones can happen during a rideshare accident, particularly if the force of the collision is significant.
- Back and spinal cord injuries: The impact of a collision can lead to back injuries, including spinal cord damage, herniated discs, and other forms of trauma that may result in long-term disabilities.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma from the accident can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and other serious medical conditions that may not be immediately apparent.
- Emotional trauma: In addition to physical injuries, individuals involved in rideshare accidents may also experience psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, It's essential to seek medical attention promptly, even if you don't initially feel injured, as some injuries may manifest later on. Additionally, consulting with our Springfield attorneys, who are experienced in handling rideshare accident cases, can help you understand your rights and pursue appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses.
What is Uber’s liability policy?
Uber provides insurance coverage for drivers when they are on the app and on the job. This insurance includes:
- When the driver is offline (not on the app and not available for a trip), their personal auto insurance is in play.
- When a driver is on the app and available for a trip, Uber offers $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
- When a driver is en route or transporting passengers, Uber offers “Insurance that covers at least $1,000,000 for property damage and injuries to riders and third parties involved in an accident.”
What is Lyft’s liability policy?
Lyft provides coverage similar to Uber when it comes to accidents. This includes:
- When the driver is offline, their personal car insurance is in effect.
- When a driver is on the app and available for a trip, Lyft offers $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
- When a driver is en route or transporting passengers, Lyft offers “At least $1,000,000 for third-party auto liability.”
What is the value of my Springfield Uber or Lyft accident?
Determining the value of a potential settlement or compensation for a Springfield Uber or Lyft accident depends on various factors, including:
- Extent of injuries: The severity of injuries you sustained in the accident will play a significant role in determining the value of your claim. This includes medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and any future medical treatment that may be required.
- Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life may also be considered.
- Property damage: Compensation for damage to your vehicle or other property as a result of the accident.
- Insurance coverage: The insurance policies of both the rideshare company (Uber or Lyft) and the driver involved in the accident will determine the available coverage.
To get a more accurate estimate of the value of your Springfield Uber or Lyft accident claim, it's advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney who can review the details of your case and provide guidance based on the specifics of your situation and local laws.
Skilled Springfield, IL Uber & Lyft accident lawyers working for you
If you've been involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft, seek experienced legal representation immediately. Our team of skilled Springfield Uber and Lyft accident attorneys understands the complexities of these cases and is committed to fighting for your rights. We will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Don't go through the legal process alone – contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure the justice and compensation to which you're entitled. Call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney today.