Cincinnati Uber And Lyft Accident Lawyers

Rideshare or ridehail drivers face the same dangers on the road as any other drivers, but they may feel the additional pressure of getting their passengers to their destinations quickly so that they can pick up other passengers. Sometimes, this results in accidents.

If you have been injured in an accident while in an Uber or Lyft vehicle, speak with our experienced Ohio personal injury attorneys at Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima. They help people injured in the Cincinnati area in all types of vehicle accidents, including rideshare accidents. Learn how they may be able to recover compensation for your injuries.

How Ohio’s Rideshare Liability Works

Each rideshare claim in Ohio is evaluated through distinct phases of driver activity. The coverage works in the following ways:

• Phase 1: App OFF (Personal Use): Only the driver’s personal insurance applies, often limited to Ohio’s minimums ($25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury, $25,000 for property damage). These limits are often insufficient for serious injuries.
• Phase 2: App ON, waiting for request: If the driver’s personal policy denies coverage, Uber or Lyft’s contingent liability applies, offering $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
• Phase 3: Ride accepted or in progress: Uber or Lyft’s $1 million commercial liability policy covers accidents, ideal for severe injuries. Our firm targets this policy to secure substantial settlements.

With our extensive trial experience and commitment to detail, we protect your rights and pursue the full compensation to which you are entitled.

Who Is Eligible for Compensation After A Cincinnati Rideshare Accident?

Eligibility for compensation after a rideshare accident hinges on whether:

• You were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle during the accident.
• You were injured in a crash caused by an actively working Uber or Lyft driver.
• You were driving for Uber or Lyft and sustained injuries in an accident.

Rideshare companies carry $1 million in commercial liability insurance for accidents involving serious injuries. However, this coverage is only triggered when the driver’s personal policy is insufficient or when the rideshare company’s system confirms the driver was “on app.”

Getting compensation can still be a battle, though. You will need an attorney who has experience with these accidents in Cincinnati. Our lawyers understand the complex nature of these cases, and they will work diligently to determine liability and get the compensation you need.

Why Are Uber And Lyft Accidents Different?

Rideshare accidents differ from standard car crashes due to unique challenges. Key differences include:

• Multiple insurance layers: Unlike typical accidents with a single policy, rideshare cases involve at least three potential sources, including the driver’s personal insurance, Uber/Lyft contingent coverage and a $1 million commercial policy.
• Independent contractor status: Uber and Lyft often classify their drivers as independent contractors to limit the company’s liability. Our firm counters these tactics by utilizing our litigation experience to hold companies accountable.
• Data dependency: Claims depend on the driver’s app status at the moment of impact, whether they are driving for personal use, waiting for a ride request or transporting a passenger. Our team investigates app data to build a strong case.

Our reputable firm, recognized for securing multimillion-dollar verdicts, meticulously manages every detail to help ensure you receive fair compensation.

Why Are Accidents Common In Rideshare Vehicles?

Rideshare drivers have a lot happening at once when they are driving, so it is easy for them to lose focus. Common reasons behind Uber and Lyft accidents include:

• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs
• Talking on the phone
• Looking at the GPS
• Speeding
• Failing to stop at intersections

Whether you were a passenger, another driver or a pedestrian in the greater Cincinnati area, you can file a claim for compensation if you were injured or lost a family member in an accident caused by an Uber or Lyft driver.

Don’t Let Them Deny Your Claim – Our Team Can Help

You can meet with our lawyers in our Cincinnati office, which is two blocks east of Pearl’s bar and three blocks east of The Precinct by Jeff Ruby. Our building is just to the west of The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum on Eastern Avenue. The main entrance is on the first floor and on the east side of the building, which faces The Carnegie Center.

If you prefer, our attorneys can also meet by phone or video conference. Please call 513-496-0134 or send us an email today to get started. Your consultation is free.