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Car Crash

Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Mobile, AL

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular means of transportation in Mobile, Alabama. However, accidents involving these vehicles can lead to complex legal challenges. That’s why it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. They can take the legal burden off your shoulders so all you have to focus on is getting better.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft, let an experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Mobile help you get the maximum settlement available. Contact Long & Long Injury attorneys for a FREE case review.

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How Can a Lawyer Help After a Rideshare Accident?

After being injured in an accident, it’s always better to work with an attorney; their experience, legal knowledge, and access to specific resources enable them to build a strong case for you. A knowledgeable Uber or Lyft accident lawyer can:

  • File a lawsuit if necessary: Taking your case to court if negotiations fail.
  • Investigate the accident: Gathering crucial evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and rideshare app records.
  • Determine liability: Identifying the at-fault parties, including the rideshare driver, another driver, or Uber/Lyft itself.
  • Handle insurance claims: Negotiating with insurance companies to maximize your compensation.

Our attorneys have access to resources that others don't, which can help them find evidence and prove the other party's negligence caused your accident.

Why Choose Long & Long as Your Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Mobile?

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What You’ll Get When You Work With Us

  • Free consultations
  • No out of pocket cost to you
  • Stress-free experience
  • 24/7 access and support
  • Proven track record of great results

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Easy Steps

1.

HIRE LONG & LONG

We take it from here — building your case and fighting for maximum compensation.

2.

FOCUS ON YOUR HEALTH

Your only job now is to rest, recover, and let us handle your case.

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You Get Paid

We fight hard to maximize your claim.

“Most people come to us on one of the worst days of their lives and they don’t know what to do. We work injury cases every single day, and we know how to make the legal process as easy as possible for our clients and maximize results.”

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Insurance Requirements for Uber & Lyft

Rideshare services in Alabama are regulated under the Alabama Transportation Network Companies Act, which establishes guidelines for driver qualifications, insurance coverage, and liability in the event of a car accident. Most rideshare companies have insurance policies in place to protect them when an accident occurs. While these policies may be large, determining if your accident is covered and getting the money for your losses can be complicated.

The most important thing you need to know is that coverage under Uber or Lyft’s insurance policies depends on the stage of the rideshare trip in which your accident took place. These stages are broken down into three periods:

Period One:

The first period is when the app is activated and the rideshare driver is waiting for a trip request. During this period, only limited liability coverage is applicable, and that includes medical and property damages. No more than $100,000 will be covered for accidents that occur during this period with a maximum of $25,000 for property damage and $50,000 per person for medical expenses.

Period Two:

This period begins when a driver is en route to pick up a passenger after accepting a trip request. During this period, total liability coverage reaches up to $1 million under Uber’s insurance policy.

Period Three:

The final period is when the passenger is in the vehicle. Coverage during this period also caps at $1 million.

Common Rideshare Accident Causes & Injuries

Rideshare accidents are frequently caused by distracted driving, as drivers often check their phones for ride requests, leading to a loss of focus on the road. Driver fatigue is another common cause, since many rideshare drivers work long hours, which increases the risk of drowsy driving. Speeding and reckless driving can also cause accidents, as drivers may ignore speed limits and traffic signs in an attempt to complete more rides quickly. Additionally, poor vehicle maintenance can be a factor, as some rideshare drivers may delay or neglect routine maintenance, leading to mechanical failures while driving.

Injuries sustained from rideshare accidents can range in severity. Some of the most common injuries include:

Discuss Your Case With a Lawyer for Free

If you or a loved one has been injured by a vehicle associated with Uber, Lyft, or a similar company, contact a rideshare accident lawyer in Mobile today for a free case review. Our team can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. We’re available to take your call 24/7.

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Who Is Liable for Your Injuries?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complicated and may involve multiple parties. These parties may include:

  • The Rideshare Driver: If they failed to adhere to traffic requirements, causing the accident.
  • Uber or Lyft: If the rideshare company failed to conduct proper background checks or adhere to safety policies.
  • Another Negligent Driver: Driver errors are common. Other motorists are at fault in about 40-50% of rideshare accidents.
  • A Third Party: Occasionally, manufacturing defects or mistakes by a mechanic can contribute to a crash.

Contributory Negligence in Alabama

Alabama is one of a handful of states that follow a contributory negligence rule. This means that if you were just 1% at fault and the rideshare driver was 99% to blame, you may be barred from recovering compensation. This strict rule makes it even more important to work with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer in Mobile. An attorney can help you build a strong case and establish full liability against the other party.

Vicarious Liability and Rideshare Companies

Vicarious liability is a legal principle where a supervisory party, such as an employer, can be held responsible for the conduct of subordinates. Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which limits their liability as they don’t have direct control over the drivers’ actions. However, in some cases, you may be able to hold the company accountable, particularly if they were negligent in hiring or retaining a driver with a history of safety violations.

If you’re unsure who was responsible for your accident, discuss your case with a Lyft and Uber accident lawyer at Long & Long for free.

Damages You Can Recover in a Lawsuit

Damages from a lawsuit or insurance settlement are designed to reimburse you for any tangible or intangible losses you experienced. Whether you were a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, if you've been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses: Emergency medical care, surgery, rehabilitation, and prescriptions
  • Lost wages: Past and future income lost due to the accident
  • Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any equipment or personal items that were damaged
  • Non-economic losses: Compensation for pain and suffering, physical and emotional distress, loss of companionship, and disfiguring injuries
  • Wrongful death damages: Punitive damages for surviving family members could punish the wrongdoer in cases of recklessness or gross negligence

What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Alabama?

Reporting the accident and documenting evidence are critical for protecting your rights. If you're involved in a rideshare accident in Alabama, take these steps:

  1. Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle off the road and out of traffic.
  2. Call 911: Notify law enforcement, and make sure the officer files an accident report.
  3. Seek Medical Care: Go to urgent care or the emergency room for an evaluation, even if you feel fine. Many injuries, especially whiplash, only appear later.
  4. Gather Evidence: Take photos of any injuries or property damage. Record witness statements, and exchange information with the rideshare driver and any other parties.
  5. Report the Accident to Uber/Lyft: If you were a driver or passenger, use the in-app accident reporting system in the Help menu to notify the rideshare company.
  6. Notify Insurance: Regardless of who was at fault or the severity of the damage, notify your insurance carrier of the accident as soon as possible.
  7. Consult With a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Mobile: Because rideshare accidents are so complex, speak to an attorney to determine the best course of action before proceeding.

Time Limit for Filing a Claim

Under Alabama law, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a rideshare lawsuit. There are a few exceptions. For example, if a minor child was injured, the 2-year statute of limitations starts on their 19th birthday. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. Preparing for a lawsuit takes time, so consult with a lawyer as soon as you are able.

Rideshare Accident FAQs

What are my options if my Uber driver was at fault?

You may file a claim through Uber’s insurance policy or file a lawsuit if necessary. Uber offers $1 million in liability protection that starts as soon as you enter the vehicle. It also protects you if an uninsured or underinsured driver was at-fault.

What if a rideshare driver hit me?

In this situation, you can file a claim against the driver's insurance or their Uber/Lyft policy. Coverage depends on their ride status. Both companies offer limited liability coverage when the driver is using the app but hasn’t selected a job. Full liability coverage up to $1 million kicks in once they accept a fare. If the driver didn’t have the app on, you need to go through their auto insurance carrier.

Will I have to go to court for my rideshare accident case?

Most cases settle out of court, but if a fair settlement can’t be reached through negotiations, your lawyer may decide to take your case to trial. If this happens, they will walk you through the process and what to expect, and will be prepared to argue your case in court.

How long will my settlement take?

The timeline to receive your settlement varies depending on liability and the complexity of your case. Most injury cases are settled in 3 months to a year. If a lawsuit is filed, the process can take several years to resolve. It can take an additional 4-6 weeks for you to receive payment after accepting an offer. However, it’s important to remember that each case is different, and sometimes there are unforeseen factors that delay the process. 

What if I’m being blamed for the accident?

If you are being sued for a car accident someone else caused, it’s time for an attorney to step in. Contact Long & Long Injury Attorneys to get a free case review and learn what to do next.

Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers in Mobile

Earle W. Long, IV

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Attorney N. Staples Wood of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

N. Staples Wood

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Attorney Walton Hickman of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Walton Hickman

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Attorney Mac McClurkin of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Mac McClurkin

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Attorney Cate E. Biggs of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Cate E. Biggs

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Attorney Jack "Trip" Smalley III of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Jack “Trip” Smalley III

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Attorney Andrea Butler Headshot

Andrea F. Butler

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Attorney Alan Colvin of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Alan Colvin

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Attorney John H. Leech, Jr. of Long & Long Injury Attoneys

John H. Leech, Jr.

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Attorney Erick Bussey of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Erick Bussey

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Attorney Jennifer Perez of Long & Long

Jennifer Perez

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Attorney Russell Johnson of Long & Long Injury Attorneys

Russell Johnson

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