The popularity of ridesharing applications such as Uber and Lyft has increased due to their affordability and convenience for those in need of transportation. The majority of people who use ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft are unconcerned about the safety of others in the event of a car accident, despite the fact that the reduced cost of the service makes it a more cost-effective option. It is crucial for Uber and Lyft passengers to understand the differences between a typical car accident and one involving a vehicle from one of these services.

Despite the fact that both Uber and Lyft provide drivers with comprehensive liability insurance, it can be difficult to comprehend the nuances of each policy. When an accident occurs, each company disputes the claim and denies liability, resulting in claim denials and inadequate settlement offers. To protect your rights, you require legal representation. Your injury-related medical expenses should not be your responsibility.

Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, can assist you in pursuing the compensation to which you are entitled as a Vermont Uber accident attorney with years of experience preparing cases and a track record of success. Our commitment to our clients, sincere and trustworthy rapport, and straightforward approach have allowed us to become one of Vermont's top personal injury law firms. Now that we are on your side, you can focus your entire energy on healing and spending time with your loved ones.

The responses to the most frequently asked questions from Vermont residents involved in ridesharing accidents are provided below.

Should I Hire an Attorney Following an Uber Accident in Vermont?

Accidents are just that—accidents. Due to the unpredictability of accidents, as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you probably will not even consider the possibility that you might be involved in an accident.

It can be extremely stressful to try to heal from injuries and make ends meet after an accident. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, providing superior client service and maintaining open lines of communication are paramount. While working with us, you will always be informed. We will never disappoint you because we are always by your side.

We Have Decades of Experience Handling Negotiations and Court Proceedings

As previously stated, ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft will exploit any available opportunity. This could result in an extremely low settlement offer or an outright refusal to pay, especially if you lack legal representation.

By retaining the services of Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you will have access to a knowledgeable expert who can determine the optimal course of action. He will collect evidence, interview potential witnesses, and negotiate with the defendant in order to secure the compensation that you are entitled to.

Uber and the other party do not need you to communicate with them. Brandon's team will be in charge of all communications. Moreover, if our team is unable to reach an agreement through negotiation, we will not hesitate to go to trial and win.

Your Losses Should Be Fully Compensated

Severe automobile accident-related injuries may require ongoing medical treatment. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may be unable to work. This is especially stressful when the rising cost of medical care is taken into account.

If the injury results in a permanent disability or even temporary pain that prevents you from participating in your favorite activities, you are entitled to compensation for all of your losses, not just your immediate medical expenses.

The Vermont Uber accident lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick will fight for the maximum possible settlement on your behalf.

Uber and Lyft Insurance Protection in Vermont

Within ridesharing services, there are multiple coverage-variable steps. Listed below are the insurance protections for various stages. 

Stage One:

If the driver is not actively looking for ridesharing passengers, his or her personal insurance will cover all liabilities.

Stage Two: 

The driver is actively searching for individuals in need of ridesharing services via the ridesharing app. While the driver is searching for work through the app, the ridesharing company's insurance coverage is automatically applied.

  • $25,000 in property damage per accident
  • $50,000 bodily injury per involved 
  • $100,000 in bodily injury per accident

Stage Three: 

When the driver actively has a passenger with them or is on their way to pick up a passenger, the third stage is considered. The following insurance coverage is provided:

  • $1 million for bodily injury and property damage, contingent collision, and comprehensive coverage (with a $2,500 deductible).

What Coverage Does Uber Offer if the Uber Driver is Waiting for a Passenger?

Uber drivers spend 40 to 60 percent of their time waiting for passengers. The phrase "deadheading" refers to an Uber driver who is stationary with their application open, awaiting a trip request. When an accident happens during a driver's on-duty but non-operational period, it becomes challenging to determine the appropriate insurance coverage.

Uber and Lyft each have commercial coverage that satisfies the bare minimum legal requirements once the driver's personal insurance is applied. Additional insurance coverage may be required on occasion by Uber drivers. Uber assumes the driver's insurance will provide coverage for any expenses incurred as a result of accident-related injuries or injuries caused to others. Many drivers, however, purchase supplemental ridesharing insurance in order to avoid having their claims denied by insurance companies when the vehicle is being used for business.

Uber's policy becomes effective with the expiration of the driver's insurance coverage. Uber's insurance policy provides coverage for bodily injury amounting to a maximum of $75,000 per injury per accident, with a per-accident cap of $150,000, and property damage of up to $25,000. This coverage is in effect when a driver's app is operational but lacks active transportation. Fatal injuries ($100,000 per accident) and bodily injury liability ($25,000 per person; $50,000 per accident) are included in their uninsured motorist coverage. When Uber has been involved in a hit-and-run incident, this coverage is applicable.

Uber accident victims may be interested in the average settlement amount for ridesharing accidents. In personal injury settlements, two types of compensation may be awarded: damages to a person's economic well-being and to their quality of life. However, the severity of the injury can significantly impact the amount of compensation awarded to the victim. 

Always remember that you are not obligated to accept the settlement offer from the insurance company. You should never forget this. It is common for the insurance provider to make a low offer, especially when it does so so soon after the accident. Before determining whether the settlement amount will cover all of your expenses, you must first identify the nature of your injuries, the duration of your recovery, and the date you can return to work.

Consult an experienced VT Uber accident attorney, such as Brandon J. Broderick, for more information on what to expect in the event of an Uber accident.

What are Economic Damages?

It is essential to remember that emotional distress and punitive damages are not considered economic damages. You have the option to request reimbursement for both current and future medical expenses when filing an Uber accident claim. It could take years for you to recover from a serious injury to the point where you no longer need therapy, rehabilitation, or housing modifications.

Examples of medical costs include:

  • Hospitalization and medical care
  • Surgery
  • Medical experts
  • Medical equipment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Residential care

It can be difficult to calculate long-term economic losses. You will require the assistance of medical experts who can assess the severity of your injuries and estimate how long it will take for you to recover. Due to their ability to recommend the best course of action, an Uber accident attorney is necessary in this situation. 

Employment-related wage loss is another type of economic harm. To be compensated if your injury prevents you from working, you must demonstrate how much money you have already lost and will continue to lose. In addition to monetary compensation, you may be eligible for reimbursement for household services, such as housekeeping, that you are unable to perform.

What are Non-Economic Damages?

Quantifying non-economic damages is somewhat more difficult. A victim of an injury may be compensated for their suffering with non-economic damages. In addition, if the victim dies, the surviving parties may file a claim for loss of consortium or companionship.

When we refer to "pain and suffering," we are referring to the mental and physical toll that an accident and its injuries have on a person. Victims of injuries receive compensation, which can be substantial, for their physical and psychological suffering.

As a result, both Uber and Lyft will have sizable insurance coverage for incidents of this nature. They are aware of the possibility of such claims and are ready for them. That does not, however, imply that they will accept responsibility for their faults.

Due to their prior experience, a skilled Vermont Uber accident attorney such as Brandon J. Broderick will be able to defend and explain the estimated amount you are seeking in addition to helping you obtain compensation for non-economic damages.

Comparing Uber, Lyft and Taxi Services

In an effort to compete with local taxi services, Uber was founded in San Francisco in 2009 to compete with local taxi services. The company's success has led to the emergence of an entirely new industry. In terms of liability, accidents, and insurance, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft differ significantly from traditional taxi services.

Contrary to ride-sharing services, taxi and cab drivers have distinctive insurance plans with different levels of coverage. Drivers for services like Uber and Lyft use their own vehicles and are independent contractors rather than employees of the company. The majority of taxi cab drivers do not own their own vehicles, and while they are working, business insurance always protects them.

Actions to Take in Vermont Following an Uber Accident

Whether the accident occurred in a taxi or an Uber/Lyft, you want to ensure your safety and security as soon as possible. Then you can worry about other individuals and what happens next.

Seek Medical Help

Regardless of how minor your injuries appear to be after a car accident, you should usually seek medical attention. After a car accident, whiplash and other injuries may not manifest immediately. Seeing a doctor ensures your health. The medical records may help your accident claim. 

Gather all the details

Keep detailed records of your Uber accident, driver, and trip. Take a screenshot of the app and ride. Write down the names and contact information of any other passengers, drivers, or witnesses.

Take photos

Photograph the accident scene and other evidence as much as possible. It is essential to take photographs of any potentially hazardous or poor road conditions, as well as any Uber-branded signage. Ensure that you take photographs of all vehicle damage.

How Do I File an Accident Report With Uber After an Accident?

A report-an-accident form is available on the Uber website, and it needs to be completed. You must go to their website to learn more about reporting the incident you have been involved in. If you have been hurt, you should speak with a Vermont Uber accident lawyer before submitting a claim with Uber. If you have been hurt in an accident, an accident attorney can explain your legal options and the potential compensation to which you may be entitled.

Uber's insurance agents or legal counsel may contact you after being notified of your claim, with the intention of requesting a recorded statement or persuading you to accept an absurdly meager settlement offer. If you have legal representation, they can advocate for your interests and deal with Uber on your behalf. An experienced Vermont Uber accident lawyer is aware of the best ways to present your case, gather proof, and illustrate the severity of your injuries and how they affect your day-to-day life and activities.

Can I File a Lawsuit Against Uber or Lyft After an Accident? 

You can file a lawsuit against Lyft or Uber for damages if you were not at fault in an accident involving one of their vehicles or as a result of injuries you sustained while riding as a passenger.

When parties are unable to come to an agreement, lawsuits are typically filed.

If You Are Involved in an Uber Accident in Vermont, Brandon J. Broderick Can Help You Today

The success of Brandon J. Broderick's practice can be attributed to his focus on the needs of his clients. As a result, we have developed a solid reputation as among Vermont's top lawyers for Uber accidents. We have years of successful client representation, even in the most challenging cases.

Never fight Uber or Lyft on your own without experienced legal representation. We are here to help you overcome your challenging situation. You can contact us now for a free consultation.

Still have questions?

Call now and be done