INJURED WHILE A PASSENGER IN AN UBER OR LYFT?

February 13 , 2021 | Martin Law Office News

While the rideshare industry has taken a hit during the CoVid Era, like so many other businesses, Uber and Lyft continues to provide a service that can make our roads safer.  By providing transportation for the infirm, those without a license and/or those who have been consuming alcohol, Uber and Lyft services provide safer transportation options that, in theory, protect everyone on Wisconsin roadways.  Nevertheless, Uber and Lyft drivers are fallible and, as such, can still operate their vehicles negligently and cause injuries to their passengers and/or other motorists.  In the event that this eventuality presents itself and you and/or a loved one are injured while riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft—or injured while driving another vehicle that is struck by an Uber or Lyft driver—what are your options?

Like any other car accident, the following damages would be recoverable in this type of crash—dependent upon the injuries, of course:

  • Medical bills (Ambulance Bills/Emergency room services, etc.);
  • Lost wages;
  • Past Pain and suffering;
  • Wrongful death;
  • Loss of Earning Capacity;
  • Future Pain and Suffering
  • Loss of consortium for a spouse

Every individual’s experience is different, but this list gives a general idea of what types of damages one can pursue when injured by an Uber or Lyft driver. As aggressive Uber and Lyft accident lawyers, we believe negligent parties should be held accountable, and you can rest assured that we will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

Ultimately, Uber and Lyft are concerned with their passengers’ safety, but also must worry about their drivers and the occupants of other vehicles.  Their websites enable riders to reach out to the company in case of an injury producing collision, but they are not always open or clear about what happens next.  Taking your case to an attorney means having someone on your side who will focus solely on your rights. In any case, whenever you are involved in a car accident make sure you get as much information as you can about the crash.  This means taking note of the location, time of day, and road conditions.  If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft—or the driver of another vehicle that was struck by an Uber or Lyft driver—you should obtain the following information:

  • The Lyft/Uber driver’s name, address, and phone number (some of which may be available in the app if you reserved the ride yourself);
  • The other driver’s name, address, and phone number;
  • The personal insurance information from the Lyft/Uber driver;
  • The other driver’s insurance information;
  • Vehicle information (registration number, make, model, and license plate numbers) for any cars involved;
  • Names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses;
  • If you are able, take pictures of the scene and of the damage to the vehicles; and take notes regarding any injuries or statements from any witnesses or drivers.

If an accident happens while you are a passenger in a Lyft or Uber vehicle—or you are injured due to the negligence of an Uber or Lyft driver while driving your own vehicle or riding in another vehicle—it is important to take the right steps just like you would in any other car accident. If you or a loved one have been injured, we encourage you to visit www.Martin-Law-Office.com for a free consultation with our board certified personal injury attorneys.  We can then provide you with your best options moving forward.