Tulsa Rideshare Accident Attorneys

How Do Driving Periods Affect Claim Payouts in Rideshare Accidents?

While both Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in liability insurance, this coverage only applies in limited circumstances. This is primarily determined by the “driving period” at the time of the collision. These include:

• Period 0. The driver is offline and using their vehicle for personal reasons.
• Period 1. The app is on and the driver is waiting for a request. 
• Period 2. The driver accepted a request and is en route to the pickup location.
• Period 3. The passenger is inside the rideshare vehicle. 

The rideshare company’s full insurance coverage typically only applies for Periods 2 and 3, while the driver’s personal auto insurance is usually the primary coverage for Period 0. In some cases, Uber or Lyft may provide limited contingent liability coverage for Period 1 if the driver’s insurance does not fully cover it. 

Understanding how the different driving periods affect your claim is essential to maximizing your recovery after a rideshare accident. Our attorneys can review the circumstances of your crash, determine which insurance policies apply, and negotiate with insurers to pursue the compensation you deserve. 

Do I Have a Valid Rideshare Accident Claim?

Merely suffering an injury isn’t sufficient to recover damages in a lawsuit. Instead, the victim (plaintiff) is responsible for proving liability by a preponderance of the evidence. In other words, you must prove that the negligent party (defendant) “more likely than not” caused the accident and resulting harm to occur. 

We can help you gather evidence and demonstrate the following elements to meet the burden of proof in your claim:

1. Duty of care. First, you must establish that the defendant owed you a duty of care, such as obeying traffic laws and driving responsibly. 
2. Breach of duty. Next, you must show that the defendant breached their duty by acting negligently, such as running a red light or driving while impaired. 
3. Causation. Then, you must prove that the defendant’s breach directly caused the accident and your injuries.
4. Damages. Lastly, you must have suffered actual harm (damages) as a result of the breach.

I Was Harmed in an Uber Accident on I-244. Can I Sue the Rideshare Company?

Whether you can sue Uber or Lyft after an accident on I-244 depends on the driver’s “period” at the time of the crash and whether the company can be held directly or vicariously liable.

Uber’s commercial insurance coverage may apply if the driver was logged into the app, accepted a ride, or was transporting a passenger at the time of the collision. If the driver was offline, claims typically go through the driver’s personal auto insurance.

Rideshare companies often try to evade fault by disputing the driver’s status at the time of the collision, disputing fault, and minimizing fair payouts. We can help you build a strong case, identify all available sources of coverage, and pursue the compensation you are rightfully entitled to.

Importance of Working with Our Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Uber and Lyft accident lawsuits can be much more complicated than standard car accident claims. Working with a knowledgeable rideshare accident lawyer is a critical first step toward recovering the full settlement you deserve.

Below are some important reasons to partner with our time-tested attorneys: 

Investigating the Accident

We can meticulously investigate the crash, gather compelling evidence, and coordinate with accident reconstruction specialists, insurance and financial consultants, and other relevant experts if needed to build you a strong case. 

Navigating Liability Disputes

Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which can shield them from liability and make it more challenging to recover compensation. We are familiar with these tactics to safeguard your rights and fight for a fair outcome.

Negotiating a Settlement

Rideshare companies often have extensive legal teams working on their behalf to reduce or deny just payouts. As highly skilled negotiators, we can work diligently to secure an outcome that reflects your actual injuries and losses. 

Trial Readiness

We prepare every case for trial and never hesitate to stand up to corporate giants in court if necessary to hold the at-fault parties accountable, giving you peace of mind that your health and financial future are prioritized.

Don’t pay the price for someone else’s negligence. We can fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (888) 495-3339 to schedule a free consultation.