What to Do After You Have Been in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Arizona

Over the last decade, ridesharing firms such as Uber and Lyft have made traveling easier, cheaper, and more convenient compared to traditional taxis. However, their rapid growth has also had unintended consequences, including increased car accidents in Arizona and across the United States.

Unfortunately for victims, Uber or Lyft accidents are unlike normal car accidents as ridesharing companies have unique classifications. For instance, ridesharing firms classify their drivers as independent contractors. Accordingly, an Uber or Lyft accident victim may be confused about who between the company and the driver is liable for their injuries.

However, an Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options. If you are in Arizona and are a victim of an Uber or Lyft accident, you can contact Mr. Barry Bellovin of The Bellovin Law Firm. He is a well-qualified and experienced Uber and Lyft accident lawyer committed to helping you get the compensation you need and deserve.

The Difference between Uber/Lyft Accidents and Other Car Accidents

Due to the unique characteristics of ridesharing, Uber and Lyft accidents have a significantly different and sometimes complicated damage recovery process compared to other car accidents. Some of the factors that make damage recovery in an Uber or Lyft accident challenges include:

• Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft identify themselves as technology companies rather than transportation companies. The classification usually makes it difficult for Uber and Lyft accidents victims to hold the companies liable, especially if the Uber or Lyft driver is at-fault.
• Ridesharing firms classify their drivers as ‘independent contractors’ and not employees. Accordingly, these companies accept liability for accidents caused by their drivers only in limited circumstances.
• There are gaps regarding the ridesharing companies’ insurance coverage for their drivers. Until recently, most companies did not provide insurance coverage for drivers in between trips when they have no clients.

Even though Uber/Lyft accidents are similar to other car accidents, including their causes and potential injuries, the above factors often make the damage recovery in these accidents comparatively difficult.

What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Despite the complicated damage recovery process, Uber and Lyft accidents are similar to other car accidents, including what you should do when involved in such an accident. Some of the steps you should take include:

1. Call the police and other relevant authorities to report the accident.
2. Seek medical care; otherwise, accept medical assistance/evaluation from emergency responders even if you don’t feel any pain or don’t have any visible injuries.
3. Do not leave the accident scene before the police record your statement unless it is a medical emergency.
4. Collect the contact information of everyone involved, including eyewitnesses.
5. Take photos/videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles and your injuries.
6. Contact a skilled Arizona Uber and Lyft accident attorney as soon as possible. You should avoid contacting the ridesharing company or their insurer without a lawyer.

Contact an Arizona Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer

Like other car accidents, an Uber or Lyft accident can leave you with severe injuries requiring lengthy and often costly medical treatment. While the law entitles you to compensation, ridesharing laws and policies are still evolving, making damage recovery in Uber and Lyft accidents uniquely challenging. Accordingly, it is advisable to seek the help of a skilled and experienced Arizona Uber and Lyft lawyer to guide you through the legal process while helping you get fair compensation. If you are in Arizona, Mr. Barry Bellovin at The Bellovin Law Firm PLLC is here for you. Contact him for a free consultation and to learn more about his services.

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Contact us if you want a personal injury attorney who has demonstrated a history of success, who will personally communicate with you at all stages of your case, and will help you manage and settle your case so that you can heal and put your life back together.