Virginia Lyft Accident Attorney & Uber Accident Attorneys
Experienced Legal Representation for Rideshare Accident Claims in Alexandria
As ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft become increasingly popular, the chances of being caught in a ridesharing accident also increase. Due to the somewhat unusual circumstances of being hurt in a vehicle as a paying passenger, it can be challenging to understand liability and who should be accountable for your injuries and damages. Taking a guess could jeopardize your claim’s chances of success.
Rather than heading into your Uber or Lyft accident claim with uncertainty, team up with The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC. Our car accident attorneys in Alexandria are renowned for acting compassionately when interacting with our clients and for demonstrating tenacity when dealing with the opposition. Throughout our 75+ years of legal experience, we have represented thousands of people in cases very much like yours.
Have you been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Virginia? Contact The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC today at (571) 290-2390 or contact us online to schedule a FREE consultation!
Virginia Rideshare Laws
Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft are classified as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) under Virginia law. These companies are regulated by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and must meet specific requirements to operate legally in the state.
Some of the key Virginia rideshare laws include:
- Driver Requirements: Rideshare drivers must hold a valid driver’s license, undergo criminal background and driving history checks, and carry appropriate insurance coverage as required by state law.
- Vehicle Inspections: Vehicles used for Uber or Lyft must meet inspection and safety standards and be properly registered.
- Insurance Coverage: Virginia law requires rideshare drivers and companies to maintain varying levels of insurance coverage depending on whether the driver is logged into the app and whether they are carrying a passenger.
Who is Liable for an Uber or Lyft Accident?
One of the most confusing aspects of a rideshare accident is figuring out who pays for your damages—the driver, the rideshare company, or another motorist. Liability largely depends on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the crash.
When the Driver is Logged Off the App
If the Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the app when the accident occurs, they are considered to be operating their vehicle for personal use.
In this situation:
- The rideshare company is not responsible.
- The driver’s personal auto insurance applies, just as it would in any other car accident.
If the driver’s insurance is insufficient or denies the claim, your attorney can help you explore other recovery options, such as your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
When the Driver is Logged On but Hasn’t Accepted a Ride
When a driver is logged into the Uber or Lyft app and waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage in case of an accident.
- In Virginia, this coverage typically includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
However, this coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the crash. In these cases, liability can be shared between the driver’s insurer and Uber or Lyft’s contingent coverage.
When the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger
Once the driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, the rideshare company’s full commercial insurance policy is in effect.
This policy typically provides:
- $1 million in third-party liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM)
- Comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver has such coverage on their personal policy)
This coverage applies until the passenger is dropped off and the trip is marked complete in the app. This is the highest level of protection offered in Uber and Lyft operations and usually provides the best chance for an injured passenger or third party to recover compensation.
Local Accident Trends & Statistics in Alexandria
In recent years, Alexandria has experienced a noticeable uptick in traffic incidents involving rideshare vehicles like Uber and Lyft. With thousands of residents relying on these services daily, understanding local accident trends becomes imperative. The bustling streets of Alexandria, such as King Street and Duke Street, often serve as hotspots for rideshare collisions due to high traffic volumes and frequent stops. Furthermore, the proximity to Washington D.C. increases traffic congestion, potentially leading to more accidents. It’s crucial for passengers and drivers alike to be aware of these trends to mitigate risks and ensure safer travel.
State and local authorities are working tirelessly to address these challenges by implementing stricter regulations and safety measures for rideshare operations. Initiatives such as increased patrolling and improved street signage aim to reduce the number of incidents in the area. These efforts highlight the importance of staying informed about safety initiatives and adhering to local traffic laws. By doing so, both drivers and passengers can contribute to a safer ridesharing environment while also protecting themselves from potential legal complications.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Virginia
If you are involved in a rideshare accident as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
- Gather evidence, including photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and contact information for all parties involved.
- Report the crash through the Uber or Lyft app.
- Avoid discussing fault or providing recorded statements to insurance representatives without legal guidance.
- Contact a Virginia rideshare accident lawyer at The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC to discuss your options.
Our team can investigate the accident, determine which insurance policies apply, and fight for the maximum compensation available.
Damages Available in a Rideshare Accident Claim
If you’ve been hurt in an Uber or Lyft crash, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members in fatal accidents)
An experienced attorney can calculate the full value of your claim and negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Uber & Lyft Accident Claim FAQs
How long do I have to file a claim in Virginia?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Virginia. However, it’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
In most cases, rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This means you generally cannot sue Uber or Lyft directly unless they engaged in negligence in hiring, training, or retaining the driver. However, you can file a claim against their insurance policy.
What if I was a passenger and the other driver was at fault?
If another motorist caused the accident, your claim would typically be filed against that driver’s insurance. If that driver lacks sufficient coverage, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply.
Does it matter if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Virginia follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning if you were partially at fault for your injuries, your compensation could be reduced or denied. Always discuss the details of your situation with an experienced lawyer.
Contact Our Virginia Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Virginia, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the potential for compensation. With the complexities of rideshare accidents and liability, having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC, is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your best interests. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you get the justice you are entitled to.
Don’t wait to seek the justice you deserve. Contact The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC, now to discuss your Uber or Lyft accident with a dedicated attorney who will fight for your rights!
