Uber & Lyft Accident Attorney in Memphis, TN

Your Rights and Road to Recovery

Ridesharing companies have transformed the way we travel in Memphis. With the city’s blend of urban and suburban life, Uber and Lyft are popular choices for getting around without driving your vehicle. Although rideshare services are convenient, they are not without risk.

Consumer Affairs has rated Memphis drivers as “the worst in America” for two years. While not all drivers in the area are dangerous, Uber and Lyft drivers can cause car crashes like any other vehicle operator. If you have been hurt in a rideshare accident, it is crucial to understand your rights and the legal issues involved.

Complexities of Uber and Lyft Accidents

Unlike other traffic crashes, rideshare accidents are layered with legal insurance complexities. Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies do not follow the same rules as traditional commercial transportation services. They classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees, which allows them to avoid certain legal liabilities, although it does not let them completely off the hook when accidents occur. Uber and Lyft carry insurance policies that cover their drivers under certain conditions. Coverage varies depending on whether the driver is logged into the rideshare app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger.

Insurance Complications in Rideshare Accidents

The critical question after an Uber or Lyft accident is often: which insurance policy applies, and is it enough to cover my damages? If the driver of another vehicle caused the crash, that driver is liable for your injuries. On the other hand, if the accident was the rideshare driver’s fault, you may be dealing with the following multiple layers of insurance, making it difficult to know where to turn for compensation:

Rideshare company insurance policy: Uber and Lyft liability insurance coverage of up to $1 million for bodily injury and property damage usually kicks in when the rideshare driver has accepted a ride or is actively transporting a passenger. Lower policy limits may apply if the driver is waiting for a ride request when an accident occurs.
Rideshare driver’s auto insurance policy: If the driver is not logged into the app and is not actively working when they cause a crash, the driver’s auto insurance becomes primary.
Rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage: Despite legal requirements, not all drivers on the road carry auto insurance. Drivers who meet only the state-mandated minimum may not have enough liability insurance to cover significant damages. Rideshare company UM/UIM coverage helps ensure passengers and drivers are not left bearing the financial burden when an at-fault part is inadequately insured.

Navigating the Rideshare Accident Legal Process in Memphis

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare accident cases involve more than simply proving fault. Establishing which insurance policy applies and in what capacity is necessary. Our seasoned Memphis personal injury lawyers understand state insurance requirements and how Tennessee law interacts with rideshare company policies. Our state follows a fault system for car accidents. To recover damages, you must prove another party was at fault. In a rideshare crash, the at-fault party could be the rideshare driver, the driver of another vehicle, or a negligent third party. Once the fault has been determined, the insurance policy that applies can be established.

Contact Us After a Memphis Uber or Lyft Accident

Rideshare companies have vast resources to defend against claims. You deserve legal representation equally equipped to fight for your rights and interests. At ‘Maggio Law, you will have upfront, personalized representation from accessible attorneys you can trust, tireless and effective advocacy, and a firm with the resources to take on big businesses and insurance companies. Call us today if you have been injured in a Memphis Uber or Lyft accident.

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