Toledo Rideshare Accident Lawyers

With the growing popularity of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, accidents involving these vehicles have also increased. Studies show that a significant number of rideshare drivers experience accidents while working, often putting passengers and other road users at risk. Even minor accidents can result in injuries with long-term consequences. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, know that you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to protect yourself. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, our injury attorneys are here to guide you through the process and fight for the resources you need to recover.

What Causes Rideshare Accidents?

Rideshare accidents happen for various reasons, many of which are preventable. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers may focus on their phones, GPS, or passengers instead of the road.
• Driver Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, which can impair their reaction times and judgment.
• Reckless Driving: Speeding, sudden lane changes, and other unsafe maneuvers, such as those made while picking up or dropping off passengers, can cause accidents.
• Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Poorly maintained vehicles, such as those with faulty brakes or worn-out tires, can lead to crashes.

If your accident resulted from any of these factors, it’s important to take action and hold the responsible party accountable.

Who Is Responsible in a Rideshare Accident?

Determining fault in a rideshare accident can be complicated because multiple parties may share responsibility. Depending on the circumstances of your crash, potential liable parties could include:

• The rideshare driver
• Another driver was involved in the collision
• Uber or Lyft, particularly if there was negligence in screening drivers
• A vehicle maintenance provider, if poor upkeep contributed to the accident

Ohio’s negligence laws allow fault to be shared among multiple parties, which can impact the compensation you receive. Building a strong case often requires identifying all those responsible and proving how their actions (or inactions) led to your injuries.

Understanding Insurance in Rideshare Accidents

One of the biggest challenges of rideshare accidents is dealing with insurance coverage. Uber and Lyft provide tiered insurance policies that depend on the driver’s status when the accident occurred:

• App Off: If the driver was not logged into the rideshare app, their personal auto insurance applies.
• App On, No Passenger: During this phase, the rideshare company’s limited liability coverage applies.
• Passenger Onboard: Once a ride is accepted, Uber or Lyft provides more extensive coverage for accidents.

Unfortunately, insurance claims can be challenging, as companies often attempt to minimize payouts or assign blame to avoid liability. Understanding how coverage applies to your situation is key to pursuing compensation.

How Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC Can Support You

Since 1973, we’ve been dedicated to helping accident victims across Toledo and Ohio. Our firm is experienced in handling rideshare accident cases, and we’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.

Here’s how we can assist:

• Thorough Investigation: We’ll gather evidence, review your case, and identify all liable parties.
• Insurance Negotiation: We’ll communicate with insurance companies on your behalf to pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
• No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we secure a settlement or verdict for you.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t face this alone. Contact Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC today for a free consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.