Detroit Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers

Protecting Your Valuable Legal Rights After a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how we travel in Detroit and throughout Michigan. These companies provide convenience and accessibility, but accidents involving their vehicles are increasingly common. As personal injury lawyers, we understand the challenges these cases present. Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver involved in a rideshare accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Determining liability, dealing with insurance companies, and securing compensation can feel like a daunting task.

At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we’ve spent decades helping accident victims understand their rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and recover the economic compensation they deserve. With 180+ years of combined experience and a commitment to serving Michigan families, we fight to ensure that every client receives more than any other lawyer could secure for them.

When you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you’re not just dealing with the driver; you’re up against large corporations with complicated insurance policies and legal defense teams. Auto accident insurance companies aim to minimize their payouts, which is why you need an experienced legal team on your side. Our rideshare accident law firm is here to guide you through the complexities of Michigan car accident and injury laws, protect your rights, and fight for the full compensation your case deserves.

Understanding Uber & Lyft Accident Policies

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft carry significant insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers. However, the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

1. Offline or Unavailable for Rides – If the rideshare app is off, the driver’s personal car accident insurance applies. Uber and Lyft provide no coverage in these scenarios.
2. Available for Rides but Not Transporting a Passenger – When a driver is waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
3. En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or Transporting a Passenger – During these times, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

Understanding these coverage tiers is critical to determining which insurance policy applies and how to pursue compensation effectively. Our rideshare accident attorneys meticulously analyze the circumstances of each accident to identify all available insurance coverage.

Common Uber & Lyft Accident Scenarios

Accidents involving Uber and Lyft vehicles can occur under a variety of circumstances. Some common scenarios include:

• Driver Negligence – When rideshare drivers engage in distracted driving, speeding, or reckless behavior, they can cause serious accidents.
• Collisions With Other Vehicles – Whether you’re a passenger in a rideshare vehicle or another motorist, you may suffer injuries in a collision caused by a negligent rideshare driver.
• Accidents Involving Pedestrians or Cyclists – Rideshare drivers who fail to yield or violate traffic laws could strike pedestrians or cyclists, causing catastrophic, life-threatening injuries.
• Improper Vehicle Maintenance – Drivers using poorly maintained vehicles may be unable to avoid accidents due to mechanical failures.
• Drunk or Drugged Driving – Uber and Lyft drivers are not immune to impaired driving despite the companies’ background checks and safety policies.

Each case is unique, but our goal remains the same – to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the maximum compensation available under Michigan law.

Michigan Car Accident And Injury Laws

Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurance typically covers medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. However, when injuries are severe, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.

Under Michigan law, a victim may seek compensation for:

• Medical Expenses – Current and future medical costs resulting from the accident.
• Lost Wages – Monetary compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries and subsequent recovery.
• Pain and Suffering – Non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage – Repairs or replacement costs for your vehicle or personal property.

Michigan law also includes specific statutes governing personal injury claims, such as the statute of limitations, which allows up to three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. It’s crucial to act quickly to preserve evidence and meet all legal deadlines.

Steps To Take After An Uber Or Lyft Accident

Taking the right steps after a rideshare accident can strengthen your claim:

1. Seek Emergency Medical Attention – Your health should be your top priority. Immediate medical care also creates a record of your injuries.
2. Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of the crash scene, injuries, and vehicles. Also, collect contact information from witnesses.
3. Report the Accident – Notify law enforcement and get a copy of the police report.
4. Notify Uber or Lyft – Report the accident through the rideshare company’s app.
5. Consult an Attorney – Our experienced lawyers can help protect your legal rights and handle communications with insurance companies.

At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we guide our clients through every step of this process, ensuring their claims are handled efficiently and effectively.

FAQs About Detroit Uber & Lyft Accidents

What Should I Do If I Am Injured While Riding In An Uber Or Lyft?

If you are injured as a passenger, seek medical attention immediately and document your injuries. Report the accident to the rideshare company through its app and request a copy of the police report. Then, consult with an attorney to understand your legal options. Rideshare companies provide significant insurance coverage when their drivers are actively transporting passengers, and we can help you pursue a claim for compensation.

Can I Sue Uber Or Lyft Directly For My Injuries?

Generally, Uber and Lyft are not directly liable for accidents because their drivers are classified as independent contractors. However, their insurance policies provide coverage for injuries caused by their drivers while they are working. Our attorneys will evaluate your case to determine the best course of action for securing compensation.

What If The Uber Or Lyft Driver Was Not At Fault?

Even if the rideshare driver was not at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation through other insurance policies. For example, Michigan’s no-fault insurance may cover your medical expenses and lost wages. If another driver caused the accident, their liability insurance could also be a source of compensation.

How Does Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance System Affect Uber And Lyft Accidents?

Under Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws, your own insurance typically covers your initial medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, if your accident-related injuries are severe or meet Michigan’s threshold for a personal injury claim, you may be able to sue the at-fault driver. Our Detroit accident injury attorneys understand the intricacies of Michigan’s no-fault system and can help you navigate the claims process.

What Is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage, And How Does It Apply?

UM/UIM coverage protects you if the at-fault party has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your damages. Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in UM/UIM coverage when their drivers are transporting passengers. This coverage can be critical in securing compensation if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim After An Uber Or Lyft Accident?

Michigan law requires you to file your personal injury lawsuit within three years of the accident. However, we recommend taking action as soon as possible to preserve evidence and ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Our attorneys will handle the legal deadlines and paperwork so you can focus on recovery.

Call Our Detroit Rideshare Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, Ravid & Associates, P.C. is here to help. Our attorneys bring 180+ years of combined experience to every case, fighting tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation for our clients. With over 25,000 Michigan families helped, we’re the trusted name in personal injury law.

Contact our Detroit Uber & Lyft accident lawyer at Ravid & Associates, P.C. by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. There’s no fee unless we win, so you have nothing to lose by reaching out. Insurance companies are afraid of lawyers like us—let us fight for the compensation you deserve.