What Happens if I Sustain Injuries in a Rideshare Accident in Boston?

The risk of getting into a rideshare accident and sustaining severe injuries is high, given the drivers are only human and not immune to road hazards. Stressful working conditions and the need to constantly check their GPS trackers distract them, leading to costly accidents. If you sustain injuries in a rideshare accident, the first question that comes to mind is what to do.

The best starting point would be to consult skilled Boston personal injury attorneys. They can evaluate your case and counsel you on your risks and options. They can also investigate the case to determine liability and help you file a compensation claim from the negligent party. The circumstances vary from case to case, but experienced lawyers know how to navigate the system.

How is Liability Determined in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Boston?

The consequences of accidents involving Uber and Lyft cars can be complex, leaving most victims unable to determine how to recover compensation for the damages. Several factors come into play in determining liability in rideshare accidents. Your Boston taxi accident lawyers can help you file a compensation claim under Uber and Lyft policies.

However, you can’t typically sue the rideshare companies for actions their drivers commit. Under the no-fault insurance laws in Massachusetts, you can only sue the at-fault driver if the accident caused severe harm. So, you may have to pursue compensation through your insurance policy.

Uber’s Insurance Policies

The law requires ridesharing drivers to carry the following insurance policies:

  • At least $50,000 of coverage per individual for bodily injury and a total of $100,000 for bodily injury
  • $30,000 of coverage for property damage
  • Uninsured motorist coverage
  • Personal injury protection

If drivers are engaged in pre-arranged rides, they must have at least $1 million in automobile liability insurance, with Uber paying for the insurance gap. The policies kick in depending on the app’s active status at the time of the accident:

  • The driver’s personal car insurance provider is liable if the app is off and the driver isn’t working and gets into an accident on their own time.
  • The driver’s personal insurance provider is also responsible if the app is on and the driver is waiting for a ride request. However, the policy won’t cover your medical expenses.
  • Uber’s insurance kicks in if the app is on and the driver is on a trip. It covers up to $1 million in third-party liability, contingent comprehensive and collision, and first-party injury insurance.

Skilled taxi accident attorneys in Boston can assess your case and determine the applicable insurance. They can also work to ensure you get the total compensation amount you deserve.

Who Should I Sue After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Boston?

Determining who to sue after a rideshare accident in Boston can be difficult, but skilled personal injury attorneys in Boston can help you.

If Your Accident Was Caused by a Rideshare Driver

Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, and you can’t sue the companies for the accidents the drivers cause. Only in extreme circumstances can you directly sue the companies. For example, if the companies knowingly hire drivers with poor driving records, you can hold them liable for the accidents the drivers cause.

Generally, you can seek compensation through Uber and Lyft insurance policies if you were injured while riding as a passenger. Other motorists and passengers injured due to the negligence of a rideshare driver may seek compensation through their insurance providers.

If Your Accident Was Caused by Another Driver

If you were riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft and another driver caused the accident, the proper course of action depends on the extent of the injuries you sustained. You can only file a lawsuit against other at-fault drivers if you suffered severe injuries.

Regardless of the circumstances of the accident, experienced taxi accident lawyers in Boston can help you pursue compensation.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Rideshare Compensation Lawsuit?

If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, you must assert your right to compensation by filing a negligence action against the at-fault driver. Recovering compensation requires that you show how the driver failed to use appropriate care when operating the vehicle.

Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare drivers must exercise the same ordinary care and skill any driver would use. They must observe the recommended speed limits and not drive while intoxicated. However, Uber passengers are often faced with dangers such as the following:

  • Distracted driving
  • Improper left turns
  • Speeding
  • Tailgating

Your Boston taxi accident attorneys can investigate the cause of the accident and help you create a strong compensation case.

Damages Recoverable in Rideshare Accidents

Damages you may be entitled to recover after sustaining injuries in a rideshare accident include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Ongoing medical care and rehabilitation costs
  • Compensation for ongoing pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disability, scarring, and disfigurement

When you hire skilled personal injury lawyers in Boston to help with your claim, they can fight to ensure you get compensation for all the possible damages. After receiving a settlement, you can find closure after the traumatic situation.

A Seasoned Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer Championing Your Case

Trying to handle rideshare accident claims alone can be overwhelming and confusing. Determining liability in Uber and Lyft accidents can be complicated, requiring the input of skilled personal injury attorneys in Boston, Brockton and Framingham, MA, to investigate the case. We can fight to protect your rights and best interests by ensuring you recover the compensation you deserve.

Our legal team has years of experience providing legal counsel and representation to clients with personal injury cases. Don’t let a negligent driver get away with the damage they caused you in an accident. Contact the lawyers at Joel H. Schwartz at 617-742-1170 to schedule a FREE consultation.