Uber Accident Lawyer Chicago & Lyft Accident Lawyer Chicago

Our Chicago Accident Attorneys Can Protect Your Rights

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services have become incredibly popular throughout the country and the state of Illinois. By offering smartphone application users a convenient means of transportation, these services collect fees in exchange for rides with available drivers nearby. However, there is never a guarantee those rides will end safely, especially when others are negligent or careless behind the wheel.

Rideshare accidents can involve complex legal and insurance aspects that are often not seen in standard automobile accidents. The classification of drivers as independent contractors, the varying insurance coverage depending on app usage, and disputes related to liability are unique challenges. It's crucial to address these complexities with the help of knowledgeable rideshare accident attorneys in Chicago who are well-versed in these intricacies. By understanding both state and federal regulations governing rideshare companies, we navigate the legal landscape effectively to advocate for our clients.

At Morici, Longo & Associates, our Chicago personal injury attorneys have been dedicated to protecting the rights of injured victims, families, and workers since our firm was founded in 1998. Over the years, we have cultivated a reputation for securing the justice and compensation victims deserve following all types of preventable car accidents – including those involving rideshare service providers like Uber and Lyft.

Injured in a car accident involving an Uber or Lyft? Call (312) 779-0366 today for a FREE Consultation.

Unique Legal Issues in Uber & Lyft Accident Cases

Although personal injury incidents stemming from car accidents generally focus on holding an at-fault party liable for preventable injuries and damages suffered by victims, wrecks involving Uber and Lyft introduce some unique and often challenging legal issues. This is primarily due to the fact that these services are still relatively new and involve a business and insurance coverage structure where drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees.

This independent contractor model implies that Uber and Lyft can often avoid direct responsibility for their drivers' actions compared to traditional taxi companies. This legal nuance requires adept handling to ensure victims can still pursue necessary compensation avenues. Understanding how rideshare platforms contract with insurers and influence policy coverage is vital in devising a legal strategy that comprehensively addresses potential roadblocks in a claim.

Our firm can help if you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident as a:

• Uber or Lyft driver (on or off duty)
• Rideshare passenger
• Bicyclist
• Pedestrian
• Driver or passenger of another vehicle
• Victim of physical or sexual assault

Because there are complex issues to address in Uber and Lyft accidents, working with attorneys who have the requisite experience, insight, and resources can make all the difference in your case. Our legal team is equipped with the tools to address all issues that may arise in these accidents, including:

Fault & Liability 

Victims of preventable accidents have a right to recover financial compensation for their damages (including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more) when they prove another party is at fault for causing the wreck. This can mean proving negligence on the part of a careless motorist who drove distracted, drunk, or otherwise failed to uphold their obligation to safely operate their vehicle, or the rideshare service company itself under certain circumstances, such as when they allow an unqualified, unfit, or dangerous individual to drive using their app. 

In many cases, holding an at-fault party liable for damages means securing compensation from their insurance provider (that's why drivers have to carry auto insurance). Due to the fact that rideshare drivers are not actually employees (and are considered independent contractors), Uber and Lyft have the ability to dispute or skirt liability in some situations when accidents are caused by their drivers or others on the road. This can create challenges when victims need to ensure they secure the full amount of compensation they deserve through the appropriate party or multiple parties.

Insurance Coverage 

The classification of drivers as independent contractors also makes for distinct challenges involving insurance coverage when victims are harmed in Uber and Lyft accidents. For example, insurance coverage will vary depending on who you were in the accident (a driver, passenger, or other motorist/pedestrian), and whether or not the rideshare driver was actively using the app.

When victims are injured while riding as passengers in an Uber or Lyft, for instance, they are typically covered by the rideshare company's commercial insurance policy (usually a $1 million policy). This covers accidents caused by the rideshare driver, other motorists or negligent parties, and even other drivers who are uninsured or underinsured. If you were a pedestrian, bicyclist, or another motorist injured by an Uber driver, insurance coverage will depend on the driver's status at the time of the crash. 

If they were actively transporting a fare, the rideshare company may be held liable for damages, but if they were in between fares or had the app turned off, a rideshare company's contingent policy and/or the driver's own personal auto insurance would provide coverage.

Understanding the insurance dynamics involved is essential for victims seeking compensation. Insurance policies for rideshare companies are layered and depend significantly on the driver's status at the time of an incident. This creates a flux in coverage that can complicate claims unless correctly navigated. Victims must ensure they are represented by legal teams capable of dissecting these multiple layers and pinpointing all potential avenues for coverage.

Our Chicago Uber & Lyft accident lawyers have dedicated their professional careers to addressing a range of complex and challenging issues involving auto accidents, commercial vehicle accidents, and wrecks involving independent contractors. We know how to effectively establish fault and liability in these cases and navigate insurance coverage issues to determine the most appropriate pathway for securing the full amount of their damages. Our goal in every case is to seek the maximum compensation possible.

Navigating Chicago’s Rideshare Regulations with an Attorney

Chicago has become a bustling hub for rideshare services, with Uber, Lyft, and others playing a significant role in the city’s transportation network. The city has implemented specific regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and proper conduct of rideshare activities. For instance, rideshare drivers in Chicago must undergo rigorous background checks and are required to adhere to specific insurance requirements. These regulations ensure a degree of safety for passengers but also introduce layers of complexity in legal and insurance aspects when accidents occur. This regulatory framework in Chicago demands that legal representatives be well-versed in local standards and prepared to address how these contribute to rideshare accident claims.

Chicago’s unique city layout and traffic congestion also play a role in how rideshare accidents unfold. The city’s highways, such as the Kennedy Expressway and the Dan Ryan Expressway, are common corridors for high traffic volumes, which can increase the likelihood of accidents involving rideshare vehicles. Understanding local traffic patterns, common accident sites, and the city's overall transportation culture is crucial when investigating the specifics of a rideshare accident in Chicago. At Morici, Longo & Associates, we leverage our local expertise to build strong legal strategies that address all these facets.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents That Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys in Chicago Address

Rideshare accidents in Chicago often result from a complex interplay of factors. Distracted driving, a prominent issue with rideshare drivers due to their reliance on smartphones for navigation, is a significant concern. Additionally, the pressure to meet ride quotas or maximize earnings can contribute to reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding or sudden lane changes.

Weather conditions in Chicago, especially during winter months, add another layer of risk. Icy roads and reduced visibility can challenge even the most seasoned drivers. Moreover, the city's vibrant event scene can lead rideshare drivers to navigate through unfamiliar or crowded streets, raising the accident potential. An in-depth understanding of these risks and their implications on accident claims is essential for effectively pursuing compensation. Our team at Morici, Longo & Associates comprehensively evaluates these elements to advocate for our clients effectively.

Understanding Our Approach to Rideshare Accident Claims

At Morici, Longo & Associates, we prioritize a client-focused approach, understanding that each rideshare accident claim presents its own unique challenges and nuances. Our firm thoroughly investigates each incident, collaborating with accident reconstruction experts and reviewing all pertinent data, including witness statements, electronic records, and vehicle data, to construct a compelling narrative of the event.

Our legal strategy is deeply informed by our understanding of both local regulations and broader legal precedents affecting rideshare litigation. We focus on identifying all liable parties, which may include the rideshare company, driver, and other drivers involved, to maximize potential recovery avenues for our clients. This meticulous and calculated approach ensures no detail is overlooked, providing our clients with comprehensive representation designed to secure the necessary resources for their recovery.

Discuss Your Case During a FREE Consultation with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Chicago

Auto accidents are never an easy experience, and they can become even more daunting and frightening when you are injured and need to navigate an unfamiliar system to recover your damages – especially when commercial rideshare companies or insurance providers do all they can to pay victims as little as possible. By working with our award-winning legal team at Morici, Longo & Associates, you can level the playing field with these corporations and gain the support and representation of proven advocates with the resources that can help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Speak personally with a lawyer from our firm by calling (312) 779-0366 or contacting us online for a FREE consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Rideshare Accident in Chicago?

Immediately following a rideshare accident in Chicago, prioritize your safety and health. Call 911 if there are any injuries and ensure medical assistance is on the way. Document the scene with photographs, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect the contact information of your rideshare driver, other parties involved, and any witnesses. Additionally, make sure to report the accident to both the rideshare company and your personal insurance provider. These steps are critical as they set the groundwork for any subsequent legal actions and insurance claims you may pursue.

How Is Liability Determined in Rideshare Accidents?

Liability in rideshare accidents can be multifaceted, given the involvement of various parties. Generally, liability is determined based on who was negligent, with possibilities including the rideshare driver, other motorists, or even third parties such as municipalities if road conditions were a factor. It is essential to assess the role of the rideshare company, as their insurance policies can impact liability if the driver was logged into the app. Gathering all evidence, including ride receipts and app data, is crucial in establishing who is responsible for the damages. Our attorneys excel in unraveling these complexities to ascertain and prove liability accurately.

What Are My Rights as a Passenger in a Rideshare Accident?

Rideshare passengers involved in an accident have the right to pursue compensation for any injuries or damages sustained. This generally involves filing a claim against the rideshare company's insurance policy, which typically offers substantial coverage while a ride is in progress. It's important for passengers to document the ride details and any communications with the rideshare company following the accident. Our role is to guide passengers through this process, ensuring their rights are upheld and they receive appropriate compensation for their injuries and losses.

How do Chicago's Weather Patterns Affect Rideshare Accidents?

Chicago's weather patterns, particularly during the winter months, pose significant challenges for rideshare drivers. Snow, sleet, and ice can dramatically affect road conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Drivers must exercise heightened caution, and speeds often need to be adjusted to accommodate adverse weather. Unfortunately, not all drivers make these adjustments, which can exacerbate risks. The city's weather also affects visibility, elevating the potential for crashes even during less severe weather conditions. At Morici, Longo & Associates, we consider these environmental factors closely when advocating for our clients involved in weather-related rideshare accidents.

What Compensation Is Available After a Rideshare Accident?

After a rideshare accident, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Rideshare companies typically carry comprehensive insurance policies to cover such claims, but navigating these insurance issues can be complex. Our team at Morici, Longo & Associates focuses on maximizing our clients' compensation by meticulously assessing all incurred and potential future costs related to the accident. Whether through settlement negotiations or litigation, we strive to ensure that all financial burdens stemming from the accident are addressed and covered.