Rideshare accident attorney Dover, DE - The Sharma Law Firm

Rideshare accident attorney Dover, DE - The Sharma Law Firm - (302) 205-3116

If you've been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Our experienced Rideshare accident attorney Dover, DE can assist you with your case. We offer free consultations to review the details of your accident and determine the best course of action. Our lawyers will work to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact The Sharma Law Firm in Dover, DE for a free case evaluation. We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you won't have to worry about upfront costs – we only get paid if we win your case.

What is a rideshare accident attorney?

A rideshare accident attorney is a legal professional specializing in cases involving accidents related to rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. These attorneys have expertise in navigating the unique legal and insurance complexities that arise in such situations. Rideshare accidents differ from standard car accidents due to the involvement of commercial insurance policies, the role of the rideshare company, and the potential for multiple liable parties, including the rideshare driver, other motorists, or the company itself. Rideshare accident attorneys advocate for victims, whether they are passengers, rideshare drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, or other motorists impacted by the crash. 

Their primary goal is to ensure their clients receive fair compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. These attorneys are skilled in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and handling disputes related to liability. Additionally, they understand the policies and procedures rideshare companies use and can determine the best course of action for each case. By hiring a rideshare accident attorney, victims can focus on recovery while their legal representative handles the complexities of the case. Most attorneys in this field offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning clients pay only if they win their case.

What makes rideshare accidents different from regular car accidents?

Rideshare accidents differ from regular car accidents primarily due to the involvement of rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft and their unique insurance policies. Unlike typical car accidents where liability is often straightforward, rideshare accidents involve determining whether the driver was logged into the app and actively working at the time of the crash. This status significantly impacts which insurance policy applies. For example, if the driver was offline, their personal auto insurance is likely responsible. If they were waiting for a ride request, Uber or Lyft’s limited coverage might apply. 

However, if the driver was transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, the rideshare company’s commercial insurance with higher coverage limits typically comes into play. Additionally, rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties, such as passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists, complicating the determination of liability. Victims may also need to navigate state-specific laws governing rideshare services, adding another layer of complexity. The presence of large corporations like Uber and Lyft introduces challenges, as they have legal teams and insurance adjusters working to minimize payouts. Because of these factors, victims often require the expertise of a rideshare accident attorney to ensure they receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly for my accident? 

Suing Uber or Lyft directly for a rideshare accident is possible but depends on the specific circumstances of the case. Generally, rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This distinction often shields Uber and Lyft from direct liability for a driver’s actions under standard employer-employee laws. However, there are exceptions where direct lawsuits against these companies may be valid. For example, you might sue Uber or Lyft if their negligence directly contributed to the accident. This could include cases where they failed to conduct proper background checks, allowed unqualified or unsafe drivers to work on their platforms, or did not maintain adequate safety measures for riders. 

Even if suing the company directly is not an option, their insurance policies may provide coverage. Uber and Lyft carry substantial commercial insurance for accidents that occur when drivers are actively working. If the driver was transporting passengers or en route to pick one up, the company’s $1 million liability coverage might apply. Because these cases involve complex legal issues, consulting a rideshare accident attorney is crucial. They can evaluate your case, determine whether you can sue Uber or Lyft directly, and help you pursue fair compensation through all available legal avenues.