Provo Rideshare Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Provo, you need a skilled attorney to protect your rights. Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks will navigate the claims process and fight for fair compensation. Call (801) 500-4000 to schedule a free consultation with our legal team today.

Perhaps you’ve had a busy day at work and decide to let a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft take you home through Provo’s bustling streets. You expect a quick, safe trip. Provo, after all, is often recognized for its friendly neighborhoods, Brigham Young University campus, and scenic views of the Wasatch Range. But suddenly, a collision leaves you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next.

At this moment, a swirl of worries might surface: Who pays for your medical bills? How do you navigate competing insurance companies? And what if the rideshare driver, or another party, denies responsibility? These questions can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical pain and stress of an accident.

The good news is you don’t have to figure it out alone. By consulting a Provo rideshare accident lawyer, you can get clarity on your rights and potential avenues for compensation.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how disorienting a rideshare crash can be, and we’ve dedicated our practice to helping accident victims seek the justice and financial support they need. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or another motorist involved in the accident, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare drivers in Provo are not immune to the same risks that plague all motorists. Despite the convenience that Uber and Lyft provide, accidents do happen—and understanding common causes can shed light on why these crashes occur.

• Driver Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers operate flexible schedules, often working long or irregular hours to maximize earnings. This can lead to driver fatigue, one of the most significant contributors to accidents nationwide. A driver may be juggling multiple jobs, driving late at night or early in the morning, and feeling sleepy behind the wheel. Fatigue slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and can even cause a driver to drift out of their lane, heightening the risk of collisions.
• Reckless Driving: Some drivers—whether rideshare or otherwise—ignore traffic laws, weave in and out of lanes, or speed to complete more rides in less time. Reckless driving is dangerous in any setting, but the risk increases in high-traffic areas like Provo’s city center or near the university campus. Even a moment of aggressive maneuvering can lead to devastating results, including multi-car pileups, side-impact collisions, or serious pedestrian injuries.
• Distracted Driving: Smartphone use is integral to a rideshare driver’s job. The driver must navigate using GPS, accept or decline incoming ride requests, and communicate with passengers. Unfortunately, this reliance on technology can lead to distraction. Even a brief glance away from the road can be catastrophic, especially in busy intersections such as those on University Avenue or near local shopping areas. Distracted driving isn’t limited to phone use; it can also include eating, interacting with passengers, or even personal daydreaming.
• Impairment: Although most rideshare drivers follow the law, some may still drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications that affect alertness. Impairment severely compromises safe driving, endangering both passengers and other road users.

By understanding these root causes, we can better appreciate the complexities surrounding rideshare accidents in Provo. Each situation may involve multiple factors, which is why it’s crucial to have an experienced legal advocate who can identify where responsibility lies, whether with the driver, another motorist, or even the rideshare company’s policies.

Rideshare Company Policies and How They Affect Passengers & Drivers

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft maintain unique operational models that rely on independent contractors rather than traditional employees. This distinction significantly affects how insurance, liability, and compensation are handled when accidents occur in Provo.

1. Insurance Coverage Tiers: Rideshare companies generally separate insurance coverage into periods based on the driver’s status in the app:

• Period 1: The driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a ride request. Basic contingent liability coverage applies.
• Period 2: The driver has accepted a request and is en route to pick up a passenger.
• Period 3: A passenger is on board the vehicle.

Coverage typically increases in Periods 2 and 3, as the company’s commercial insurance policy often takes precedence. However, if the driver is offline or just has the app open without being actively engaged, the coverage available may be minimal—or may default to the driver’s personal auto insurance.

1. Background Checks and Driver Screenings: Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare providers generally perform background checks and may periodically screen driving records. Yet, some critics argue these checks aren’t always rigorous or frequent enough. Passengers who are injured in an accident might question whether the rideshare company exercised due diligence before allowing a particular driver onto the platform.
2. Contractor vs. Employee Status: Most rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors, meaning they typically do not receive the same legal protections or benefits an employee might. This classification can affect liability, especially if a passenger or another party tries to hold the rideshare company directly responsible for a driver’s negligence. Rideshare firms often claim that because drivers are contractors, they (the company) aren’t liable for the driver’s actions.
3. Policy Adjustments and Local Regulations: As Provo grows and the popularity of ridesharing increases, local regulations may evolve. For example, Provo or Utah state legislators could introduce additional rules about licensing, insurance, or the hours drivers can spend on the road. These changes can alter the scope of protection and responsibility for both passengers and drivers.

Understanding these policies is crucial for anyone involved in a rideshare accident. Passengers may be unsure whether to file a claim with the driver’s personal insurer or with the rideshare company’s.

Drivers, meanwhile, might wonder if their personal policies will cover accidents when they’re on the clock. An experienced lawyer can untangle these complexities and advocate effectively on your behalf.

Determining Liability in a Rideshare Accident

When a rideshare accident occurs in Provo, figuring out who is responsible isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties may share fault, and insurance coverage can differ depending on the specifics of the incident. Below are some key considerations:

• Driver vs. Rideshare Company: If the driver is deemed at fault for reckless driving, distracted driving, or other negligent acts, the rideshare company might still try to distance itself by emphasizing the driver’s status as an independent contractor. However, in certain circumstances, the company’s insurance policy will apply, especially during Periods 2 and 3 (when the driver has accepted a ride or is transporting a passenger).
• Other Motorists: Sometimes, the rideshare driver isn’t the one who caused the accident. Another vehicle might have run a red light or driven aggressively, contributing heavily—or exclusively—to the crash. Determining liability often involves reviewing police reports, speaking with witnesses, and examining dashcam or surveillance footage if available.
• Government Entities or Property Owners: In rare cases, unsafe road conditions, malfunctioning traffic signals, or poorly maintained signage can play a role in the accident. If a city or property owner in Provo is responsible for these conditions, they could also be liable. Filing a claim against a government entity involves specific procedural steps and strict deadlines, so consulting an attorney promptly is essential.
• Comparative Negligence
  Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning each party can be assigned a percentage of fault. If you’re found to be partially responsible (e.g., you were riding without a seatbelt or distracting the driver), your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re deemed more than 50% at fault, you may not recover damages at all.
• Insurance Policies and Coverage Limits
  Once fault is determined, the relevant insurance policies come into play. The amount you can recover often depends on policy limits—both from the rideshare company’s commercial policy and the at-fault driver’s personal coverage.

Navigating the question of liability requires careful investigation and legal acumen. A Provo rideshare accident lawyer from Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks can handle the complexities of building your case, collecting evidence, and negotiating with all involved parties to secure the compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Provo

In the immediate aftermath of a rideshare accident, emotions can run high. You may feel disoriented, especially if you’re injured. Nonetheless, taking certain steps can protect your health and legal interests. Here are the steps you should take if you are injured in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle in Provo:

• Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention: Your well-being is the top priority. Even if you feel “fine,” some injuries aren’t immediately apparent. Call 911 if anyone is seriously injured. If you don’t require an ambulance, follow up with a doctor as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation. Keep detailed records of every medical visit, diagnosis, and treatment plan.
• Call the Police: Request that a law enforcement officer come to the scene and file an official accident report. This report can later serve as a key piece of evidence for determining fault. Make sure you get the officer’s name and badge number, and find out how to obtain a copy of the accident report.
• Gather Information: Collect the rideshare driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information. If you were the passenger, note details like the make and model of the vehicle, the driver’s license plate number, and screenshots of your rideshare app showing trip details. If other drivers were involved, get their information too. Don’t forget to take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and street signs or signals, as these can provide important clues later.
• Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company: If you’re the passenger, use the in-app support or website to alert the rideshare platform about the crash. If you’re a rideshare driver, you should also notify the company immediately to initiate the appropriate insurance claims process.
• Notify Your Own Insurance: Regardless of fault, let your personal auto insurer know you were involved in an accident. Provide basic details without speculating about fault. Some policies require prompt reporting to maintain coverage eligibility.
• Consult a Rideshare Accident Lawyer: Finally, reach out to a Provo rideshare accident attorney before discussing settlement offers or giving detailed statements to insurance adjusters. An experienced lawyer at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks can help you avoid pitfalls, preserve evidence, and pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Compensation Available for Rideshare Accident Victims in Provo

An unexpected collision can turn your life upside down, leaving you with hefty medical bills, lost wages, and emotional turmoil. In Provo, if you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you might be eligible for various forms of compensation. Here’s what you should know:

1. Medical Expenses: This category encompasses a broad range of costs, from immediate ER visits and ambulance rides to ongoing treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and potential surgeries. Even seemingly minor injuries can require repeated follow-up appointments, so it’s crucial to keep track of every healthcare-related expense.
2. Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injury forces you to take time off work, you may recover compensation for those lost wages. More severe or long-term disabilities can also decrease your ability to perform your job in the future, warranting damages for loss of earning capacity. A medical expert or vocational specialist may help substantiate these claims by linking your injuries to a measurable impact on your career.
3. Pain and Suffering: Beyond the tangible financial losses, injuries often result in significant physical pain and emotional distress. Utah law recognizes that this harm is real and allows victims to seek compensation for pain and suffering. Though intangible, these damages aim to address the very real psychological toll an accident can have on your life, relationships, and overall well-being.
4. Property Damage: If you own the car involved in the accident (e.g., you’re a rideshare driver using your personal vehicle), you can often claim costs associated with repairs or, if your car is totaled, its fair market value. Passengers might also have property damage if personal belongings—like laptops or cell phones—were destroyed in the crash.
5. Punitive Damages: Although less common, punitive damages may apply in cases where the at-fault party’s behavior was especially reckless or malicious. For instance, if the rideshare driver was heavily intoxicated or had a known history of severe violations, you could seek punitive damages aimed at penalizing the driver and deterring similar future conduct.
6. Wrongful Death: If a rideshare accident tragically results in a fatality, surviving family members could bring a wrongful death claim. In these situations, compensation may cover funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before death, and the emotional and financial support lost when a loved one passes away.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how overwhelming it can be to calculate your total losses, especially in the wake of a traumatic collision. Our team delves into every aspect of your case, consulting experts and examining the long-term implications of your injuries. By taking a thorough approach, we aim to secure the maximum compensation possible, ensuring you have the resources needed to heal and move forward.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Rideshare Accident

Insurance companies often market themselves as being on your side, but their primary goal is to minimize payouts. Navigating insurance claims after a rideshare accident in Provo can be challenging, especially when multiple insurers—personal auto, rideshare company, and even third-party providers—are involved.

• Report the Accident Promptly: Once you’re safe and have addressed any urgent medical concerns, notify the relevant insurance providers. This can include your personal insurer and, if you’re the driver, the rideshare company’s support line or in-app incident reporting system. Providing timely notice helps preserve your rights under many insurance policies.
• Be Mindful of Statements: Soon after your accident, an insurance adjuster may call you for details. It’s important to be honest but cautious. Avoid definitive statements about fault or the extent of your injuries—these can be used to downplay your claim. A safer approach is to give basic facts and then consult an attorney before providing more in-depth statements or recorded interviews.
• Gather and Preserve Evidence: Insurance companies often ask for a wide range of documentation, from medical records to receipts for property damage. Keep organized files with all relevant documents, including photographs of the accident scene and notes about your injuries. Each piece of evidence helps build a stronger case for compensation.
• Understand Rideshare Insurance Tiers: As mentioned earlier, rideshare coverage can vary depending on the driver’s status in the app. Insurance companies sometimes disagree on when the driver was actually “on the clock,” leading to disputes about which policy is responsible. Clarifying these timelines—via trip logs, app timestamps, and receipts—can be crucial in establishing which insurer should pay.
• Negotiation Tactics: Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators who might offer a quick settlement. While a lump-sum payment can be tempting—especially if you’re facing immediate expenses—it’s often much lower than what you’ll ultimately need for a full recovery. Politely decline any offer until you’ve consulted with an attorney who can evaluate whether the settlement is fair.
• When Insurers Deny or Delay: Insurance companies sometimes deny claims outright or drag out negotiations to wear you down. This can be particularly stressful if you’re juggling medical appointments and bills. If your claim is delayed or denied, a legal professional can help push back against unjust decisions.

Successfully dealing with insurance companies requires knowledge, persistence, and skilled advocacy. A Provo rideshare accident lawyer from Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks can step in to manage communications, gather crucial evidence, and work toward a settlement or verdict that truly reflects your losses.

How Our Firm Helps Rideshare Accident Victims in Provo

Going through a rideshare accident can be physically and emotionally draining. Medical appointments, vehicle damage, and mounting financial worries can make it hard to see a clear path forward. That’s where we come in. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we focus on guiding clients toward fair and meaningful outcomes in personal injury cases—including those involving rideshare accidents.

Personalized Consultation and Case Assessment

We begin every attorney-client relationship with a genuine conversation. We want to hear your story: how the accident happened, the extent of your injuries, and the ways in which your life has been disrupted. Through this initial consultation, we’ll explore whether you have a valid claim and what potential legal strategies make sense for your situation. Our goal is not to push you in any specific direction but rather to provide the facts you need to make informed decisions.

During this consultation, we also discuss the unique challenges that come with rideshare accidents. Unlike standard car accidents, these cases often involve multiple insurance policies, liability disputes, and complex corporate policies from companies like Uber and Lyft. Understanding these details upfront helps us develop a strong case strategy from the very beginning.

Comprehensive Investigation

Once we take your case, our legal team conducts a thorough investigation. We gather police reports, medical records, and any photographic or video evidence of the scene. If needed, we consult accident reconstruction experts who can piece together how the collision happened—valuable insights for proving liability. Because rideshare accidents sometimes involve multiple parties, we also review app data, driving logs, and insurance policies to clarify who bears responsibility.

In rideshare accidents, liability may rest with the driver, the rideshare company, another involved motorist, or even a third-party entity responsible for road maintenance or vehicle defects. Sorting through these factors is essential for building a solid case. Our attorneys leave no stone unturned, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable.

We also collect testimony from witnesses, review dashcam footage when available, and analyze cell phone records to determine whether distraction played a role in the crash. If the driver was logged into the app at the time of the accident, the rideshare company’s insurance policy should apply. If they were not logged in, their personal insurance may be the only option. Understanding these details is critical to pursuing full compensation.

Expert Negotiation with Insurers

Insurance companies know we mean business. Our attorneys, including founding partner Mark T. Flickinger and specialists like Brett R. Boulton, have built a strong reputation for tenacious representation in personal injury cases throughout Utah. When we enter negotiations, we do so armed with well-documented evidence and clear arguments for why our clients deserve compensation. If the insurance adjuster offers a lowball settlement, we’re prepared to push back firmly or proceed to litigation if necessary.

Rideshare companies and their insurers are known for using tactics to minimize payouts, often shifting blame onto other parties or downplaying the severity of injuries. Our experience in handling these cases allows us to anticipate these strategies and counter them effectively. We take a firm stance in negotiations, ensuring that our clients are not pressured into accepting unfair settlements.

Trial-Ready Approach

Some law firms focus primarily on quick settlements. While we understand that a speedy resolution can be ideal in some situations, we also recognize that not every insurance carrier will negotiate fairly.

Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks prepares every case as though it might go to trial. This preparation often leads to stronger negotiations; insurers know we aren’t afraid to argue our case in court. Our track record includes notable results, such as $5 million awarded for a wrongful death and $128 million in a sexual abuse case—successes that demonstrate our willingness to fight for our clients.

If an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take the case to trial. Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience, and we use compelling arguments, expert testimony, and detailed evidence to present the strongest possible case before a judge or jury.

Maximizing Compensation for Our Clients

Victims of rideshare accidents may face extensive medical bills, lost income, property damage, and emotional trauma. Our firm fights for compensation that covers all economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of quality of life

We understand that some injuries may not fully manifest until weeks or months after the accident. That’s why we work with medical professionals to ensure that all future treatment needs are factored into settlement negotiations or court proceedings.

Ongoing Client Support

We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Our attorneys provide consistent updates on your case’s progress, promptly return phone calls, and are always ready to answer questions. We value the trust you place in us during a vulnerable time, and we strive to live up to that trust through empathy, respect, and committed advocacy.

We also assist clients with practical concerns, such as accessing proper medical care, arranging vehicle repairs, and handling communication with insurance adjusters. Our goal is to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so that you can focus on healing.

Commitment to Provo and Its Community

With offices in Provo and South Jordan, our firm is deeply connected to the local community. We appreciate what Provo is known for: its scenic mountain views, educational institutions, and a tight-knit network of families and professionals. We see it as our duty to help maintain safety and accountability on Provo’s roads by standing up for the victims of preventable accidents.

Through our advocacy, we aim to improve road safety and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. Rideshare companies provide convenience, but they must also take responsibility when their drivers cause harm. By fighting for our clients, we help promote higher safety standards and prevent future accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents in Provo