Phoenix Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Are You the Victim of a Rideshare Accident?

Since Uber began operating in Phoenix in 2012, rideshare services have seen significant growth throughout the state. Well-known platforms such as Lyft and Yellow Cab along with established services like airport shuttles and the Valley Metro’s vanpool program, reflect the increasing demand for convenient, personalized transportation options. As Phoenix’s population and metropolitan areas have grown, this expansion has brought both advantages and challenges. The rise in traffic density has put pressure on infrastructure and led to an increase in motor vehicle accidents, including those involving rideshare vehicles. These incidents frequently result in serious injuries, trauma, and, in some cases, life-changing consequences.

If you were in a serious rideshare accident and need help, call Thompson Law as your Phoenix rideshare attorney first. Our experienced and caring team of accident attorneys are here for you with the knowledge and expertise to get you every penny you deserve.

After an accident in your Uber or Lyft, take back control and get Thompson Law on your side. Call our Phoenix rideshare attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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Rideshare Accidents: Causes and Effects

In many respects, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer enhanced safety. They help deter drunk driving, alleviate traffic congestion, and promote more efficient use of our roads and vehicles. However, they also introduce new dangers. We now live in a delivery-driven economy, where Uber Eats cars and Amazon vans are constantly delivering even the smallest items on demand. This convenience can be beneficial for our community, but it also raises the risk of accidents.

The common causes of accidents in ridesharing or delivery driving mirror those of any car crash, but the technology involved can heighten the risks.

Drivers often find themselves on their phones, tracking their current ride and coordinating their next pickup. Since customers expect a seamless point-to-point experience, drivers frequently rely on GPS for navigation, which diverts their attention from the road.

Many rideshare drivers work long, irregular hours and often lack professional training, both of which contribute to a higher likelihood of accidents. Here are some common causes of these incidents:

  • Driver Negligence:  Focusing on their phone instead of the road
  • Driver Error:  Failing to stay in their lane, losing control of the vehicle, or not signaling to other drivers
  • Speeding Particularly on unfamiliar roads or in busy pedestrian areas
  • Nighttime Visibility:  Challenges posed by bright lights and busy locations during night driving
  • Vehicle:  Poor maintenance or broken parts
  • Road:  Weather-related hazards or road debris
  • Drunk Driving:  The dangers of encountering drunk, sleepy or distracted drivers
  • Traffic:  Navigating through heavy traffic and chaotic areas where ride-hailing is prevalent

While the specific causes of these accidents may differ, the outcomes are often similar to those of any serious motor vehicle collision. This can lead to rollovers, rear-end collisions, head-on crashes, t-bone incidents, sideswipes, and both single and multi-vehicle accidents. Each of these situations can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Phoenix, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance! Call our Phoenix rideshare accident attorneys today!

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Phoenix

If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, take these steps to protect your rights:

  1. Call 911: Report the accident and get medical help if needed.
  2. Gather Information: Get the names, contact details, and insurance info of the drivers and passengers. Take photos of the scene and collect witness statements.
  3. Document Everything: Keep records of medical treatment, car repairs, and any expenses related to the crash.

Proper documentation strengthens your case and helps you recover the compensation you need.

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents

The law is still trying to keep pace with the ridesharing industry and its evolving technology. One of the main challenges in determining liability in accidents involving Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services is figuring out whether the driver was acting on behalf of the company (for example, driving to pick up a passenger or carrying passengers) or as an individual (such as heading home after completing their rides).

This distinction is tracked by the app, which monitors their route, communicates with customers, and manages payments. With this information, the injured party can take steps to seek compensation from either the company’s insurance policy or the driver’s personal insurance.

However, much of the process mirrors that of other types of accidents. Witnesses and police document the details of the incident, and further investigations into additional liability can occur after the initial report is filed and fault is established.

Collaborating with your accident attorney at Thompson Law to clarify liability in these cases is a significant advantage. Seasoned litigators possess the expertise and resources to investigate and comprehend the responsibilities of all parties involved, working diligently to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, reach out to our Phoenix rideshare accident attorneys today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

At Thompson Law

We offer committed and passionate legal representation for those affected by rideshare car accidents, making sure you obtain a fair settlement for your claim. Our team of Phoenix rideshare accident attorneys will create a robust case backed by compelling evidence to assist you in getting the compensation you rightfully deserve.

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Insurance Coverage in Phoenix Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft offer insurance coverage for their drivers, and this coverage can differ based on the driver’s activity within the app.

Uber Insurance Coverage in Phoenix

  • Offline (App Off):  only the driver’s personal auto insurance is in effect.
  • Online But No Ride Accepted:  Uber offers third-party liability insurance with these limits:
    • $25,000 per person for bodily injury
    • $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
    • $20,000 per accident for property damage
  • En Route to Pick Up or During a Trip:  Uber provides:
    • $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage
    • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage up to the actual cash value of the vehicle, with a $2,500 deductible, provided the driver has personal comprehensive and collision coverage

Lyft Insurance Coverage in Phoenix

  • Offline (App Off):  Only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
  • Online But No Ride Accepted:  Lyft offers third-party liability insurance with these limits:
    • $25,000 per person for bodily injury
    • $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
    • $20,000 per accident for property damage
  • En Route to Pick Up or During a Ride:  Lyft provides:
    • $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage
    • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage up to the actual cash value of the vehicle, with a $2,500 deductible, provided the driver has personal comprehensive and collision coverage

It’s essential to understand that these coverage amounts align with the state requirements in Phoenix and might vary from those in other states. Drivers need to make sure they have suitable personal auto insurance policies, as some coverages provided by Uber and Lyft depend on the driver’s personal insurance.

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What Compensation Can I Get for A Rideshare Accident in Phoenix?

Being involved in a rideshare accident may offer you different recovery options compared to a standard car accident, primarily due to the rideshare company’s insurance policies. Here are the types of recovery that our Phoenix rideshare accident lawyers seek for victims of rideshare accidents:

  • Medical Bills:  This includes coverage for medical treatments related to injuries sustained in the accident, such as emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages You may be entitled to compensation for lost income if your injuries prevent you from working, whether temporarily or long-term.
  • Property Damage This covers reimbursement for any damage to your vehicle or property resulting from the accident.
  • Pain and Suffering You can seek monetary compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Punitive Damages In certain extreme cases, damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior in the future.
  • Coverage Under Rideshare Insurance Policies:  Depending on the driver’s status (actively accepting passengers or driving between fares), the rideshare company’s insurance may provide coverage that exceeds the driver’s personal insurance.

Common Injuries Suffered in Rideshare Accidents

Injuries sustained in rideshare car accidents are quite similar to those from other types of car accidents. Even in a minor fender bender, you might experience whiplash or suffer cuts and bruises from seat belts and objects that can fly around inside the vehicle. Naturally, injuries can be significantly more severe in the event of a more serious crash.

If you find yourself in this situation, don’t hesitate to prioritize your well-being and advocate for what you deserve. Reach out to Thompson Law’s Phoenix rideshare accident lawyers today if you’ve been involved in an accident with a rideshare driver.

We’re here to take your call 24/7 and can begin your treatment and negotiation process immediately. Our dedicated accident attorneys are committed to fighting for our clients and have successfully assisted individuals with various car accident injuries, including but not limited to:

After an accident, getting medical care should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Contact Thompson Law for legal support while you focus on recovery.

Why Choose Thompson Law

Choosing the right legal team is essential when pursuing justice. At Thompson Law, we are committed to offering Phoenix families compassionate support and proven results. Here’s why:

  • No Fees Unless We Win:  Our contingency fee policy means you don’t pay anything unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
  • Proven Results With over $1.9 billion recovered, we have the expertise to achieve favorable outcomes.
  • Fast, Simple Process:  You can reach out to us anytime to consult with a lawyer and start your claim immediately.
  • 24/7 Availability:  We’re here to help you whenever you need legal assistance.
  • Personalized Support:  We prioritize clear communication, respect, and care for every client throughout the legal process.
  • Bilingual Services:  Spanish-speaking families can rely on our bilingual team to ensure language is never a barrier to justice.

At Thompson Law, our mission is to maximize compensation for families affected by wrongful death. From investigating the incident to managing insurance claims or preparing for trial, we take care of every detail.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare vehicle, contact our Phoenix rideshare accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Man with No Win No Fee sign

Thompson Law’s Phoenix rideshare accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless you receive compensation for your rideshare injuries. There are no upfront costs, and we only take a percentage of your recovery.

Our goal is to help you return to normal, and our bilingual staff is here to assist you. We are available 24/7 and can support you from the moment you are injured until you reach a settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the rideshare driver refuses to cooperate after an accident?

If the rideshare driver is uncooperative, remain calm and try to gather as much information as you can. Take note of the vehicle’s make, model, license plate, and any visible rideshare identifiers. Report the incident to the rideshare company through their app, contact law enforcement, and consult with an experienced Phoenix rideshare accident attorney to protect your rights and ensure your claim is handled correctly.

Can I still file a claim if the rideshare driver was off-duty when the accident happened?

Yes, you can file a claim, but it will likely involve the driver’s personal insurance instead of the rideshare company’s coverage. It’s important to determine whether the driver was on-duty or off-duty, as this will affect which insurance applies. An experienced Phoenix attorney can help clarify liability and ensure you file the appropriate claim for maximum compensation.

What if my injuries don’t show up immediately after the accident?

Some injuries, like whiplash or soft tissue damage, may take days to manifest after an accident. If you start experiencing symptoms, seek medical attention right away and keep a record of your treatment. These documents will be crucial for your case, demonstrating that the accident caused your injuries. A Phoenix rideshare accident attorney can assist you throughout the claims process.

Can I file a claim if I was injured as a pedestrian or cyclist in a rideshare accident?

Yes, you may be eligible for compensation if you were injured as a pedestrian or cyclist in a rideshare accident. Whether the rideshare driver was actively using the app at the time will determine which insurance coverage applies. A rideshare accident lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.

What happens if multiple parties are at fault for the accident?

Phoenix follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you share some fault for the accident. Fault may be divided among the rideshare driver and other parties involved. A knowledgeable attorney in Phoenix can assist in identifying liability, making sure that all accountable parties are brought to justice, and advocating for the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.