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An Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can help you after a crash.  If you were injured in a rideshare car accident in Michigan, it is important that you understand your legal rights by speaking with a compassionate lawyer.

After a crash, you might be unsure of how to proceed. However, by working with a skilled attorney at Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C., you might be able to request compensation against a negligent driver to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other associated damages.

The Popularity of Rideshare Services

While traditional taxi cab services and limousines are still popular, the use of mobile apps for securing rides is rapidly growing in popularity. The most common ridesharing services in Michigan are Uber and Lyft. Other services offer free carpooling programs, like Southeast MiRideshare, which provides matches for carpooling and vanpooling.

Carpool World, Ridester, West Michigan Rideshare, and eRideshare are additional services found throughout the state. However, while ridesharing is a great way to save money on transportation expenses, its rise in popularity means crashes involving rideshare vehicles has also increased in frequency.

What to do after a Michigan Uber or Lyft Accident

When someone is injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, there are several important steps they should take immediately following a crash. First, and most obvious, is to get prompt medical care and treatment as needed. Furthermore, a person should try to report the crash to the police—however, if it is not possible, they should try to file a written accident report within the first twenty-four hours following the wreck.

This might be crucial, as many insurance companies require that an injured motorist report the accident within one day in order to make a claim. Most likely, an injured motorist or passenger should be able to recover damages through no-fault insurance benefits, which might provide payment for medical expenses, lost wages, and other associated costs.

These benefits should be available even if an injured claimant does own a vehicle involved in the crash or if they have their own auto insurance policies. A well-versed rideshare car crash lawyer could help to further explain how to pursue benefits to a Michigan resident.

Common Reasons for Uber & Lyft Car Accidents

When you get into a a rideshare vehicle, the driver owes you the legal duty to drive the vehicle in a safe and careful manner.  The same responsibilities apply to people in other vehicles, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists.  The most common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents are:

Distracted driving is also a major problem for Uber and Lyft drivers.  During a drive, they frequently look at their mobile phones for directions. Drivers also take their eyes of the road to see if any new passenger notifications pop up on their screens.  These distractions contribute to many crashes.
Uber & Lyft Rideshare Michigan Accident Lawyers - Buckfire Law

Who is Responsible for  Lyft & Uber Accidents in Michigan?

Both Uber and Lyft drivers use their own private vehicles to transport passengers.  While there is a screening process for drivers, many do not have commercial driver’s licenses or any formal training.  They are simply people with cars picking and dropping off passengers at different locations.

Beginning in 2017, Michigan imposed new regulations on drivers who operate for rideshare companies. . Michigan Uber and Lyft drivers  must carry at least $1 million in liability coverage for an accident that occurs while the driver is transporting passengers. Drivers must have at least $50,000 in liability coverage for accidents that happen while the driver is logged into the mobile rideshare application but is waiting for a ride request.  So, the amount of coverage is often determined by the activity of the driver at the time of the crash.

Who Pays my Medical Bills after a Rideshare Accident?

In Michigan, you are entitled to No-Fault Insurance benefits if you were injured as a passenger in an accident.  Our attorneys will determine which auto insurance company is responsible for paying those benefits and will submit the necessary forms for you.  You are entitled to payment of medical bills, therapy expenses, lost wages, attendant care services, and other benefits.

If you were hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, you can also receive these benefits.  The circumstances of your accident will determine which insurance company is responsible.  Our lawyers will investigate the crash and then identify which company must pay your bills.  We will assist you in the claims process from start to finish.

Can I Sue for Injuries after an Accident?

In addition to claims for no-fault insurance benefits, an injured rideshare passenger or innocent motorist might also be able to make claim for their accident-related injuries when an Uber or Lyft driver is at fault. This claim can be made against the driver that caused the accident. Furthermore, you can also file a lawsuit against the ridesharing company.

To win a case, you must prove that the driver was negligent in driving the vehicle.  You must show that you suffered an injury in the crash.  Our attorneys will get the accident report, interview witnesses, and gather all of the evidence needed to prove fault.  We will also get your hospital and medical records to prove you suffered serious injuries in the accident.

How much are Uber & Lyft Car Accident Settlements?

Rideshare car accident injury settlements in Michigan include compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, disability, and other money damages.  There is no “average” or “typical” settlement amount because every crash and its resulting injuries is completely different.  However, there is no cap or limit to the amount of money compensation you can receive.

Uber and Lyft drivers are covered by large insurance policies through their rideshare companies.  The amount of the coverage depends on which phase of the drive is involved in the accident. For example, the period when the driver is waiting for a passenger has lower liability limits than during the actual passenger ride itself.  Liability limits can range from $ 50,000.00 per person up to    $ 1,000,000 in total coverage.  Our attorneys will work hard to maximize the amount you receive in a settlement.

In the event of a fatal accident, family members of the person killed in the accident can file a wrongful death lawsuit. These lawsuits provide compensation to the surviving family members.  This includes payouts for the pain and suffering of the decedent before the death and the loss of companionship suffered by surviving family members.  These cases often result in substantial settlements and jury verdicts.

How long does it take to get my settlement?

While many people want a fast settlement, it most often is not in their best interest.  To get fair compensation for your injuries, it is wise to wait patiently to see if you fully recover and what the likely future holds for you.  If you settle quickly, you may be getting much less than you should.

In many cases, a settlement is paid within one year of the crash.  For cases involving minor injuries, it can be much faster.  For cases involving a wrongful death or a serious injury, it may take longer to get paid your settlement but it is well worth the wait.

A lawyer who specializes in Lyft accidents will work tirelessly to maximize your settlement amount.  The best lawyers are in no rush to get you paid because they know that you only get one chance to receive the maximum recovery.  Our attorneys will do everything necessary to achieve the best result for you.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Help with my Accident Case?

You are not required to hire a lawyer to help you after an Uber or Lyft accident.  However, these cases involve much more legal analysis than even a typical car crash.

For example, determining which insurance company must pay your No-Fault insurance benefits requires legal research and analysis.  In addition, determining who you can sue for your personal injuries and how much insurance coverage is available requires the skill and experience of a top-rated lawyer.  You also will not want to sign any papers or releases without them being reviewed by legal counsel because you could be signing away important rights forever.

No Fee Unless You Win Law Firm

Our law firm will take on your case under our No Fee Promise.  This means you are not charged any legal fees unless you win a settlement.  It does not cost you any money to get started and we only get paid our fees at the end when you get your settlement check.   There is absolutely no risk whatsoever to have our award-winning lawyers working on your case.

Get Help after a Michigan Rideshare Car Accident

If you or a loved one was injured while by an Uber, Lyft, taxi, or another rideshare service, you have legal options. However, instead of navigating the legal system alone, consider enlisting a legal professional for help.

A lawyer who has knowledge and experience with Michigan rideshare car accident claims will explain your rights, gather evidence, and build a winning claim on your behalf.

To begin working on your claim today, contact a dedicated attorney at Buckfire Law now.

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