Tampa Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys

Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft have become a part of daily life for many who live and work in the Tampa area. Unfortunately, the convenience of getting a ride on demand does not come without its risks.

Rideshare drivers are prone to the same mistakes as any driver and often work long hours during times of the day when traffic is at its heaviest, or at night when drunk drivers and other careless people are on the road. The presence of rideshare vehicles has increased traffic congestion in U.S. cities and may, as some research suggests, be responsible for an increase in fatal accidents.

If you have been injured in a rideshare accident in Tampa, or anywhere in Hillsborough County or the surrounding areas, the Tampa Uber accident lawyers at Kogan & DiSalvo are here to help you pursue financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other hardships.

As Florida’s premier personal injury law firm, we have the experience to handle the complex legal and insurance issues that arise in accident claims involving Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services.

What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident

The first thing you should do after an Uber or Lyft accident is to make sure you are safe and removed from ongoing danger. Get medical treatment for any injuries you have suffered, even if you only think they are minor. Many times, serious injuries such as whiplash, concussions, and internal organ damage are only detectable after a thorough medical examination.

Once you are safe:

• Report the accident to the police, your insurance company, the driver’s insurance company, and the rideshare service. You can find instructions for reporting accidents to Uber and Lyft in the “Help” sections of their mobile apps.
• Take photos of the accident scene, including skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
• Gather the contact information of potential witnesses.
• Talk with a car accident attorney who can help you understand your rights as they pertain to a potential personal injury claim. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.

An experienced Tampa Lyft accident attorney can take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what is most important—recovering from your injuries and getting the treatment you need.

Determining Liability for Your Uber or Lyft Accident

Who is responsible for damages in an Uber or Lyft accident? It depends upon a number of factors, including:

Who Is at Fault

As in any car accident, a careless driver who creates a hazardous condition may be held liable for injuries caused by his or her negligence. Common causes of accidents include:

• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Drunk driving

Determining liability in an Uber or Lyft accident claim can be especially complex, as fault may lie with the rideshare driver, another driver, a third party such as an auto manufacturer, or even the passenger—or some combination of two or more parties. A skilled Tampa Uber accident lawyer can help uncover the facts and evidence that point to negligence in rideshare accidents.

The Driver’s Status at the Time of the Accident

Insurance coverage in a rideshare accident often depends upon what stage in the pickup process a driver is in at the time of the accident.

Uber and Lyft drivers are required to carry their own liability insurance coverage. This coverage generally applies when the driver is off duty or on duty looking for customers, but doesn’t have a passenger in the car.

The situation changes when the driver has the app on and a customer in the car. When a Lyft or Uber driver is in this status, his or her special liability policy with Uber or Lyft would come into play in the event of an accident, potentially increasing the amount of compensation injury victims could receive.

The complexity of the insurance issues in rideshare accidents is one reason it is so important to consult with an experienced Tampa Uber accident lawyer before making any important decisions regarding your claim.

Speak With a Tampa Lyft & Uber Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a rideshare accident, the Tampa Uber and Lyft accident attorneys at Kogan & DiSalvo are here to help you with all aspects of your legal claim. We will handle your case with great care and attention to detail as we work to help you secure maximum compensation for the losses you have suffered. Get in touch with an experienced Tampa personal injury lawyer today.