Can You Sue an Uber or Lyft Driver if You’re Injured in an Accident?
Published in Rideshare Accidents on April 7, 2022
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Many residents of Boston, Massachusetts, enjoy the convenience of rideshare apps when going out for an evening or catching a ride to the airport. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have seen a massive increase in popularity in recent years, completely changing how people get around town. Unfortunately, accidents become more likely with more rideshare vehicles on the road. When you get into an Uber or Lyft, you trust the driver to act responsibly and safely deliver you to your destination. However, driver negligence is a leading cause of rideshare accidents across the country.
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident in Boston, you have the legal right to pursue compensation for the losses you have endured. The award-winning car accident attorneys at Sweeney Merrigan are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the claims process. Our team is committed to helping ensure you get the compensation you need to heal and recover.
To get started and schedule a free consultation, give us a call at (617) 391-9001 or fill out our online contact form today.
Can I Sue for Damages if I Was Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Boston?
Even though Massachusetts follows a no-fault insurance system, you can still sue a negligent party for damages. If your injuries are severe or your accident-related expenses add up to $2,000 or more, you can pursue damages from their insurance company or through a personal injury lawsuit. However, for your claim to be successful, you must establish liability.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident comes down to whether or not the driver was actively using the Uber or Lyft app when it occurred. If the driver was not on the app, you might have grounds to sue the driver, but not the rideshare company. You could have a case against Uber or Lyft in the following situations:
- The rideshare driver’s app was active, and the driver was waiting for a ride request. In this case, the rideshare company’s insurance covers damages up to $50,000.
- The rideshare driver’s app was active and they were on their way to pick up a passenger, or if a ride was in progress with a passenger in the vehicle. In these situations, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy will cover up to $1 million in damages.
Your lawyer will meticulously review your case to determine who should be held responsible for your losses. They will tirelessly advocate for you through every step of the claims process to help ensure you get the justice you deserve.
What Should I Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Boston?
Being injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft is an incredibly jarring and stressful experience. However, what you do in the minutes following a rideshare accident could significantly impact the success of your claim. Taking the following steps is critical to protecting your rights and safety:
- Call the police and report the accident
- Gather any evidence from the accident scene, including photos, the driver’s details, and witness contact information
- Seek professional medical attention as soon as possible to diagnose and treat your injuries
- Keep a record of your accident-related expenses
- Request the police report for the accident
- Speak to a trusted attorney before contacting your insurance company
Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to pay accident victims the smallest amount possible for their injuries. Your lawyer can help you negotiate with the insurance company and protect your right to be compensated for the full extent of the damages you’ve suffered.
Contact an Experienced Boston Rideshare Accident Attorney
When going up against companies like Uber or Lyft, it is essential to have the highest quality of legal representation. The dedicated rideshare accident attorneys at Sweeney Merrigan pride themselves on taking a personalized approach to every case and treating each and every client like a friend. Sweeney Merrigan was founded by brothers and partners J. Tucker and Peter M. Merrigan in 2010. Since then both Tucker and Peter have been named top 40 under 40 trial attorneys for several consecutive years and devote 100% of their practice to litigation.
Our attorneys are committed to being fierce advocates for our client’s right to compensation and have a proven track record of success. To schedule a free consultation with a member of our experienced legal team, call us at (617) 391-9001 or complete our contact form.