Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH

Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH

Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH

It’s not every day that an innovative technology fundamentally changes a long-established paradigm. Rideshare apps are a prime example of this shift, transforming transportation for many and drastically reducing the need for traditional taxi services. While rideshare companies offer significant benefits, they also introduce potential risks.

Rideshare services provide an excellent tool in the fight against drunk driving, offering designated drivers just minutes away. However, commercial drivers, including rideshare drivers, may feel pressured to bend or break rules to maximize their earnings. In some cases, negligent drivers may get behind the wheel due to inadequate vetting processes from rideshare companies.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, consulting with experienced Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH can help you understand your rights and seek significant compensation for your injuries.

Ohio Rideshare Laws and What They Mean for Drivers and Passengers

Ohio Revised Code Title [45] XLV, Chapter 4925 governs ridesharing services, including popular platforms like Uber and Lyft, within the state of Ohio. These laws require rideshare companies to maintain minimum insurance coverage for their drivers, protecting both drivers and passengers in case of an accident.

The law mandates that rideshare drivers must comply with the state’s requirements for insurance, vehicle safety and licensing. One of the statute’s core goals is to ensure rideshare drivers have adequate coverage to ensure people involved in rideshare crashes get adequate compensation for their injuries, property damage and other losses. However, when the extra coverage varies based on what the driver is doing at the time of the crash (e.g., active ride vs. waiting for a ride request).

Passengers are covered by the rideshare company’s insurance if an accident occurs during the trip. This means they have the right to seek compensation through the rideshare company’s liability coverage for injuries or damages caused by the accident. This coverage may also extend to people in other vehicles who are injured due to a rideshare driver’s negligence while they are actively transporting clients or on their way for a pickup.

When Different Policies Might Be Active in Accidents Involving Rideshare Drivers

Insurance coverage in rideshare accidents can be complex. The coverage that’s active at the time of an accident will depend on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

Waiting for a Ride Request

The rideshare company’s insurance may provide limited coverage when a driver is actively on the app but is waiting for a passenger. If an accident occurs at this time, the driver’s personal auto insurance may fill in gaps.

During an Active Ride Request or With a Passenger

The rideshare company’s commercial insurance is usually active while a driver is enroute to a passenger they’ve accepted or actively transporting a rider. This scenario offers maximum protection for all parties, including the rideshare driver, their passengers and other drivers on the road around them.

Off-Duty

If a driver is not logged into the rideshare app, only their own personal auto insurance typically applies. Simply being a rideshare contractor does not entitle the driver to enhanced coverage. They and their passengers only receive enhanced coverage during active rides.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

• Distractions: Rideshare drivers often rely on apps for navigation and ride requests. Any phone use while driving can potentially result in dangerous distractions, even if the phone use is directly attributable to their job.
• Looking for Directions: Unfamiliarity with routes or constantly having to check navigation may divert the driver’s attention from the road.
• Fatigue: Long hours and the pressure to accept rides may result in driver fatigue.
• Other Common Causes: Like any other drivers, rideshare drivers may also be involved in accidents due to speeding, impaired driving or recklessness. These risks may be elevated if the driver is in a hurry to reach a passenger or drop one off in order to make more money.

Should You Call a Lawyer After Being in a Rideshare Accident?

Every situation is unique, but individuals involved in rideshare accidents often achieve better outcomes with the help of skilled litigators and negotiators. The complexities of rideshare insurance policies can be daunting, but our Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH understand these intricacies and how they influence claim outcomes.

An attorney can help investigate the accident, determine fault, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They will advocate for fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Navigating Ohio traffic laws and rideshare regulations can be challenging for someone without a law degree. The lawyers at Buckeye Law Group are well-versed in Ohio’s specific laws governing rideshare services and can ensure your claim meets all legal requirements.

Contact Us Today to speak with experienced Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Akron, OH who can assist you with your case.