Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft have taken the transportation industry by storm. Rideshare market value was over $150 billion globally in 2023, and by 2029, it’s anticipated to be more than $210 billion.
If you haven’t tried rideshare, it’s a simple and convenient way to get from Point A to Point B. More than 99% of all rideshare trips happen without a safety incident. However, the latest statistics show that these accidents are on the rise. The growing popularity of ridesharing has resulted in an upswing in accidents.
It’s important to know that rideshare accidents are more complex than other car accident injury claims. There may be more parties involved, and the rideshare company may have some liability for rideshare accident injuries.
What Are the Common Causes of Rideshare Accident Injuries?
Driver error is a common cause of rideshare accidents. Other common causes of rideshare accidents include:
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Fatigued driving
Rideshare drivers are more likely to drive recklessly and may not be paying attention because they’re using their company’s ridesharing app. Uber’s App says, “From tracking earnings to planning your day, learn how to use the Driver app to make the most of every trip.”
If a driver’s vehicle is equipped with Android Auto or CarPlay, or they’re driving a Tesla, a driver can use Uber’s driver app on the vehicle’s screen to accept trips and get turn-by-turn navigation instructions.
But if using their company’s app while driving, rideshare drivers may not see pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vehicles.
How Are Uber And Lyft Car Accidents Different From Other Car Accidents?
A rideshare accident can happen just like any other kind of car crash, but a big difference between Uber and Lyft accidents and other kinds of auto accidents is the fact that there’s a third party involved: the rideshare company. Whether the rideshare company is also responsible for an auto accident injury can be complicated.
Several parties may share responsibility for an Uber or Lyft car accident. This includes:
- The rideshare driver for negligent and unlawful driving behaviors
- The rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft may be vicariously liable if the driver was on duty
- Other vehicle drivers who cause or contribute to the accident
- Auto and software manufacturers may also be held liable if mechanical failure, defective parts, or program glitches contributed to or caused the accident
Note that Uber and Lyft have custom insurance for claims involving their drivers; however, that coverage varies based on whether the driver is logged into the rideshare company’s driver app and/or whether they were transporting a passenger at the time of the accident. In some instances, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy may be the only coverage available. Because claims may involve a number of insurance companies, victims can have a hard time getting a handle on the situation and compensation without an experienced Michigan personal injury attorney.
Speak With an Experienced Michigan Auto Accident Attorney
If you or a family member are involved in an auto accident in Michigan that involves a rideshare company, you may be entitled to compensation for serious injuries. You need a reliable Michigan auto accident attorney that understands the Michigan insurance laws and can get you what you deserve.
For a free consultation with an experienced rideshare auto accident attorney in Michigan, contact Buchanan Firm. Our firm proudly serves people all across Michigan, including major cities like Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Detroit, Lansing, Holland, St. Joe, Kalamazoo, and Ann Arbor, and rural towns such as Lowell, Ada, Fremont, Newaygo, Grand Haven, Rockford, and Cedar Springs. We will meet you after hours, at home, or in the hospital to accommodate you.
If you are still unsure whether calling a lawyer now makes sense, these articles answer the next questions most people ask after a crash.
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