HOW TO OBTAIN A POLICE REPORT
Before contacting an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer, it’s necessary to call the police. Upon arriving, the police officer will gather details such as the names and contact information of all involved parties, including their insurance companies.
Armed with these details, the officer will then create their police report, which may include their opinion of how the accident occurred and who’s at fault. It’s normal to receive a copy of the police report at the scene. However, emergency medical needs or other situations might require obtaining the police report later.
To obtain a police report requires contacting your local police station. Sometimes, you may need to pay a small fee to receive the copy. Still, this document is essential for proving liability.
HOW CAN I DETERMINE WHETHER THE DRIVER OR THE RIDESHARE COMPANY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MY INJURIES AFTER AN ACCIDENT?
Both Lyft and Uber accidents can be trickier than ordinary car accidents. Our rideshare accident lawyers understand that every mishap is different.
While Uber and Lyft drivers generally aren’t direct employees of the companies they represent—acting as contractors instead—both Uber and Lyft have limited liability coverage. This coverage means the companies may be liable for Uber or Lyft accidents.
However, the accident can still be the driver’s fault, requiring their automobile insurance to foot the bill. For example, if the driver isn’t logged into the ridesharing app, they’re technically not working when the accident occurred.
WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS IF A TEXTING DRIVER CAUSED MY WRECK?
While cell phones help keep us connected with the modern world, they’re also a primary source of distraction. Texting while driving is becoming a significant concern.
When a wreck is caused by a texting driver, you have the legal right to seek compensation and justice. Texting while driving and similar behaviors are illegal. The driver, their insurance company, or, in the case of ridesharing apps, the company they represent can be held liable.
Proving that texting and driving caused or contributed to the accident may not always be straightforward. An attorney can help connect the dots and establish liability.
FAQs
How many accidents are caused by Uber drivers each year?
It’s difficult to determine how many Lyft or Uber accidents occur each year and whether these accidents directly result from the driver. However, research from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business looking at the first six years of ride-hailing suggests that ridesharing services contribute to a three percent annual increase in motor vehicle fatalities.
While Uber and Lyft have helped prevent accidents that would otherwise be caused by drunk drivers, there’s no denying that there’s still a risk of an accident when entering an Uber or Lyft. Our rideshare lawyers fight for victims following such accidents.
What are the most common causes of Uber or Lyft accidents in Dallas?
The most common causes of Uber or Lyft accidents are the same for other motor vehicle collisions:
- Erratic driving: Speeding, tailgating, not stopping at red lights, or engaging in road rage can all cause an accident.
- Driving under the influence: The Uber or Lyft driver may engage in drunk driving, or it can be another driver on the road.
- Distracted driving: We associate distracted driving with texting, but eating, drinking, or listening to loud music may also cause distracted driving. Passengers themselves can also distract a driver.
- Poor road conditions: Bad weather or numerous potholes can cause an accident.
A Lyft or Uber accident lawyer from our team can help determine the cause of your accident and ensure you obtain fair compensation.
