At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, our compassionate and dedicated Uber accident attorney in St. Cloud, MN, has helped countless victims protect their rights after being harmed. We are here to fight for fair compensation for you.
Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complicated. Unlike regular car accidents, Uber and Lyft drivers operate under unique insurance policies. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, different parties may be responsible for damages, including:
- The Uber or Lyft driver
- Another negligent driver
- Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider
- Your own auto insurance provider
- A third-party company responsible for vehicle maintenance
A top-rated rideshare accident attorney in St. Cloud can investigate your case and determine the best path forward.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage Explained
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the coverage varies depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger. Here’s how it works:
When the Uber App Is Off
If an Uber driver is not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance policy applies. Uber provides no coverage in these situations.
When the Driver Is Available but Has No Passenger
If the driver is waiting for a ride request, Uber provide may provide limited liability coverage:
- $25,000 in coverage for property damage
- $50,000 coverage per individual for bodily injury
- $100,000 coverage for bodily injury per accident
When a Passenger Is in the Car
Once a ride request is accepted and a passenger is in the vehicle, Uber’s $1 million liability policy applies. This coverage helps protect injured passengers and third parties. A St. Cloud rideshare accident lawyer can help you determine which insurance policy applies to your case.
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Common Causes of Uber Accidents
Uber and Lyft accidents can happen for many reasons, often leaving passengers, drivers, and others on the road with serious injuries. One of the most common causes is distracted driving. Many rideshare drivers rely on their phones for navigation, ride requests, and communication with passengers, which can take their attention away from the road. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a dangerous crash.
Speeding and reckless driving are also major factors. Some Uber and Lyft drivers may rush to complete more rides in less time, increasing the risk of accidents. Driving above the speed limit or weaving through traffic can make it harder to react to sudden changes on the road.
Fatigue is another concern. Many drivers work long hours, sometimes late into the night, leading to exhaustion. Drowsy driving can slow reaction times and impair judgment, making accidents more likely.
Poor weather conditions add another layer of danger. Rain, snow, or fog can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the chances of losing control of a vehicle. Even careful drivers struggle in these conditions, and some rideshare drivers may not have the experience needed to handle them safely.
Finally, negligent drivers sharing the road can also contribute to rideshare accidents. Other motorists who speed, run red lights, or drive under the influence can create dangerous situations for Uber and Lyft drivers, putting passengers at risk.
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to a rideshare driver’s negligence, a Lyft accident lawyer near me can help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A no-win, no-fee Uber accident lawyer in St. Cloud can help you seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Loss of consortium
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Every case is unique, and the best Uber accident lawyer in St. Cloud will evaluate your damages to maximize your recovery.
Why You Need a St. Cloud Uber Accident Lawyer
Handling an Uber accident claim alone can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and rideshare companies have complex policies that make it difficult to get fair compensation.
A top-rated rideshare accident attorney in St. Cloud can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Determine which insurance policy applies
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Represent you in court if necessary
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident?
First, check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Document the accident by taking photos, gathering witness statements, and getting the contact information of everyone involved. Report the crash to the rideshare company through their app. Lastly, consider reaching out to a lawyer if you’re unsure how to handle insurance claims.
How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims based on negligence is generally six years from the date of the accident. It’s best to start the process as soon as possible to ensure you don’t run into legal deadlines. Waiting too long can make it harder to gather evidence and secure fair compensation.
What if the rideshare driver didn’t have enough insurance?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover your losses, Uber and Lyft have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This applies when another driver is at fault but lacks sufficient coverage. If you have underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy, that may also help. Speaking with an attorney can help you explore all possible sources of compensation and determine which policies may apply.
What if I was hit by a rideshare driver while walking or biking?
Pedestrians and cyclists injured in rideshare accidents have similar rights to other accident victims. If the driver was logged into the app, Uber or Lyft’s insurance should apply. If they weren’t on duty, the driver’s personal insurance may be responsible. As always, collecting evidence and seeking medical attention right away will strengthen your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a rideshare accident claim?
You’re not required to have a lawyer, but it can make the process much smoother. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and rideshare claims can be complicated. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, ensure you get fair compensation, and handle any legal hurdles. If your injuries are serious or liability is unclear, having legal representation is a smart move.
Rideshare accidents in Minnesota can leave you with more questions than answers. Knowing your rights and understanding how insurance works can make a big difference in getting the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure about your next steps, speaking with a personal injury attorney can help clarify your options.
How Nelson Personal Injury, LLC Can Help
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we have extensive experience handling rideshare accident cases in St. Cloud. Our team understands the legal complexities involved in Uber and Lyft crashes, and we’re dedicated to securing the compensation our clients deserve.
We offer free consultations, and we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact Our St. Cloud Uber Accident Lawyer Today
If you were hurt due to an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Nelson Personal Injury, LLC today to schedule a free consultation. Let our St. Cloud Uber accident lawyer fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
