Waldorf Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Discuss Your Case with Our Experienced Attorneys

Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees. As a result, Uber and Lyft are not liable for many of the accidents that occur while their drivers are on the road. However, that doesn't mean you are left without recourse in the event you are involved in an auto accident while an Uber or Lyft driver is on duty.

Our Waldorf rideshare accident lawyers at Farmer & Klopfer are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. In many cases, we are able to file a third-party claim against the rideshare company's insurance company. These claims are often successful because the rideshare company's insurance company is not allowed to deny coverage based on the driver's classification as an independent contractor.

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, we can help. Our goal is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation to which you are entitled. We will work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure this happens. If you have been injured, do not wait to seek legal guidance.

Call our team today at (301) 265-2220 to schedule a free consultation.

Maryland Rideshare Driving Laws

You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license to drive for most rideshare companies in Maryland. Rideshare drivers are required to have their vehicles registered and insured according to Maryland's laws. Additionally, they must carry the appropriate level of insurance coverage.

Rideshare companies typically conduct background checks on potential drivers. In Maryland, certain criminal offenses may disqualify you from becoming a rideshare driver. Some rideshare companies may require a vehicle inspection to ensure it meets safety standards. Check with your chosen rideshare platform to determine if this is necessary.

As an independent contractor, rideshare drivers are responsible for managing their taxes. It's essential to keep track of all earnings and potential tax deductions related to your rideshare driving activities.

Insurance Coverage in Uber and Lyft Accident Claims

Insurance coverage in Uber or Lyft accidents in Maryland can vary depending on the driver's status within the app at the time of the accident. Here's a breakdown of how insurance coverage typically works in different scenarios:

Driver Not Logged into the App

If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app at the time of the accident, their personal auto insurance policy would generally be responsible for covering any damages or injuries.

This coverage would be similar to any other car accident involving a personal vehicle, subject to the terms and limits of the driver's insurance policy.

Driver Logged into the App but Hasn't Accepted a Ride

If the driver is logged into the Uber or Lyft app but hasn't accepted a ride request, both Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage.

Contingent liability coverage typically covers bodily injury and property damage caused by the driver while they are logged into the app but haven't yet accepted a ride request.

In Maryland, contingent liability coverage provided by Uber and Lyft may have limits, and it usually acts as secondary coverage to the driver's personal auto insurance policy.

Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Driving a Passenger

Once a driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger or already transporting them, Uber and Lyft provide primary liability coverage.

This primary liability coverage typically includes third-party liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

In Maryland, the coverage limits provided by Uber and Lyft for this stage of driving are generally higher compared to the contingent liability coverage.

Additionally, during this phase, Uber and Lyft may also provide contingent collision and comprehensive coverage for the driver's vehicle, subject to certain deductibles.

Who is Liable for Causing a Rideshare Accident?

In a rideshare accident, liability for damages and injuries can be attributed to various parties depending on the circumstances of the accident. Here's a breakdown of potential parties who may be held liable:

• Uber or Lyft Driver: The rideshare driver can be held liable if their negligence or reckless driving caused the accident. This could include situations such as distracted driving, speeding, failure to obey traffic laws, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The driver's liability would typically be covered by their personal auto insurance policy or the insurance coverage provided by the rideshare company, depending on their status within the app at the time of the accident (as discussed in the previous response).
• Rideshare Company (Uber, Lyft, etc.): Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft may also be held liable for accidents involving their drivers under certain circumstances. For example, if the accident occurs while the driver is actively engaged in providing services for the rideshare company (i.e., driving passengers or en route to pick up a passenger), the company's insurance coverage would typically apply. Moreover, rideshare companies may be held vicariously liable for the actions of their drivers while acting within the scope of their employment.
• Other Drivers or Third Parties: In some cases, liability for a rideshare accident may rest with other drivers involved in the accident or third parties responsible for contributing to the crash. If another motorist's negligence or unlawful actions (such as running a red light or driving recklessly) caused the accident, they could be held liable for resulting damages and injuries. Similarly, if a defective auto part or hazardous road condition contributed to the accident, liability may fall on the manufacturer of the defective product or the entity responsible for maintaining the road.
• Pedestrians or Cyclists: If the accident involves pedestrians or cyclists, liability may fall on the party whose negligence or actions led to the collision. For example, if a rideshare driver fails to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries to the pedestrian.

What If You Are Injured in an Accident Involving an Uber or Lyft Driver?

If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. You may also wish to document the damage to your vehicle and your own injuries as soon as possible.

Our Waldorf rideshare accident lawyers can help you gather evidence and build your case. We will work to establish the rideshare driver's negligence and hold them accountable for all damages.

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Punitive damages

An injury from an Uber or Lyft accident can be devastating. Our team is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. If you have been injured, we encourage you to reach out to our Waldorf rideshare accident lawyers for a consultation. We can review your case and help you determine if you have a viable claim.

Call our team at (301) 265-2220 or fill out an online contact form to get started.