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Lehi Rideshare Accident Lawyer

We understand the challenges you may be facing after a rideshare accident, and we are here to provide the support and legal expertise you need. Reach out to Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks today and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made transportation more convenient, but when accidents happen, determining liability can be complicated. If you were injured in a rideshare accident in Lehi, you need a legal team that understands the complexities of these cases. 

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we have the experience to navigate insurance claims, fight for fair compensation, and hold negligent parties accountable. 

Whether you were a passenger, driver, or pedestrian involved in a rideshare accident, our firm is ready to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Overview of Rideshare Services in Lehi 

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular mode of transportation in Lehi, providing residents and visitors with a convenient and affordable way to get around. These app-based services allow users to request rides with a few taps on their smartphones, eliminating the need for traditional taxis or public transportation. 

While rideshare services offer flexibility and ease of access, they also come with unique legal challenges when accidents occur.

How Rideshare Services Operate:

  • Driver-Partner System: Unlike traditional taxi companies, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees.
  • Insurance Coverage Tiers: Rideshare companies provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone.

In Lehi, the rise of rideshare services has contributed to increased traffic and, unfortunately, more accidents. Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the company’s insurance provider, and any other motorists involved.

Common Uses of Rideshare Services in Lehi:

  • Daily Commutes: Many residents use rideshare services to travel to work, school, or other essential destinations.
  • Event Transportation: Rideshares are a popular choice for those attending concerts, sporting events, or social gatherings.

While rideshare services provide valuable transportation options, accidents can happen anytime. Understanding how these services operate and what to do in the event of a crash is crucial for anyone who regularly relies on Uber or Lyft.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Lehi 

Rideshare accidents in Lehi, like those involving traditional vehicles, can occur due to various factors. However, the unique nature of rideshare services, where the driver is often an independent contractor and multiple insurance policies may be involved, can complicate the cause and liability of accidents. 

Understanding the most common causes of rideshare accidents is essential for both drivers and passengers to take preventive measures and know what to do if an accident occurs.

Distracted Driving

One of the most common causes of rideshare accidents is distracted driving. Drivers frequently use their smartphones to accept ride requests, navigate, and communicate with passengers. This constant interaction with the phone can divert their attention from the road, leading to accidents.

Common distractions include:

  • Checking ride requests and navigation apps
  • Communicating with passengers
  • Texting or making phone calls

Speeding and Reckless Driving

In an effort to meet demands and complete as many rides as possible, some rideshare drivers may speed or engage in reckless driving. This is particularly true during busy times or in areas with heavy traffic, as drivers may feel pressured to reach their destinations quickly. 

Speeding and aggressive driving can increase the likelihood of accidents, especially in residential neighborhoods or areas with lower speed limits.

Driver Fatigue

Rideshare drivers, often working long hours to increase their earnings, are at risk of driving while fatigued. Lack of sleep can impair reaction times and decision-making, leading to slower responses to sudden changes in traffic conditions and a higher likelihood of accidents.

Poor Road Conditions

Lehi, as some cities do, may experience poor road conditions, such as potholes, construction zones, and bad weather, that increase the risk of accidents. Even the most careful and experienced driver may struggle to maintain control of their vehicle on slick or uneven roads.

Examples of poor road conditions that contribute to accidents include:

  • Wet or icy roads during winter months
  • Potholes or debris on the road
  • Construction zones and unexpected lane changes

Impaired Driving

Although rideshare companies have strict policies against impaired driving, drivers may still choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Whether it’s drugs, alcohol, or other substances, impaired driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, as it affects a driver’s ability to make sound judgments, react quickly, and maintain control of the vehicle.

Other Driver’s Negligence

Accidents can also happen when other drivers on the road are negligent, either by tailgating, ignoring traffic signals, or making sudden lane changes without signaling. These factors can lead to collisions, even if the rideshare driver acts responsibly.

Understanding these common causes of rideshare accidents can help passengers and drivers identify potential hazards and take proactive steps to reduce the risk of accidents in Lehi.

Legal Responsibilities of Rideshare Companies in Lehi

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft play a crucial role in the transportation industry in Lehi, offering a convenient and cost-effective way for residents and visitors to travel. However, with their widespread use comes a set of legal responsibilities that these companies must adhere to, especially in the event of accidents or incidents. 

Rideshare companies are not just passive facilitators of transportation but are bound by specific legal obligations to ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers and the general public.

Insurance Coverage

One of the primary legal responsibilities of rideshare companies is to provide adequate insurance coverage for their drivers and passengers. In the event of an accident, the insurance policies offered by the company should cover damages or injuries caused by the driver’s actions, depending on their status during the trip.

Rideshare insurance typically operates in three stages:

  • Driver Offline: If the driver is not logged into the app, their personal insurance applies.
  • Driver Online (No Passenger): When the driver is waiting for a ride request, the company’s insurance provides limited coverage, typically covering third-party injury or property damage.
  • Driver with Passenger: Once the driver picks up a passenger, the rideshare company provides full coverage, including liability, passenger injury, and third-party claims.

Screening and Training of Drivers

Rideshare companies have a legal responsibility to ensure that their drivers are qualified and safe to operate a vehicle. This includes conducting background checks, driving record reviews, and making sure drivers meet specific criteria set by the company. In addition, rideshare companies may be required to verify that drivers maintain proper licensing and insurance.

Although rideshare companies do not directly employ their drivers, they must ensure that drivers adhere to safety standards that align with the expectations for commercial transportation.

Safety Standards and Equipment

Rideshare companies are also responsible for ensuring their vehicles meet certain safety standards. This includes vehicle inspections and regular maintenance to ensure that cars are safe for passengers and other drivers on the road. Rideshare companies must provide proper training for drivers on how to handle emergencies and deal with passengers appropriately as well.

Handling Accidents and Legal Claims

In the event of an accident, rideshare companies have a legal obligation to assist with investigations and work with insurance companies to resolve claims. While the driver is responsible for their actions behind the wheel, the rideshare company may also bear responsibility for accidents, mainly if the incident occurred while the driver was on duty. 

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents

Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be complex, as it involves various factors, including the status of the driver at the time of the accident, the specific circumstances surrounding the incident, and the involvement of the rideshare company itself. 

Unlike traditional taxi services, rideshare drivers are typically independent contractors, which further complicates the process of assigning responsibility. Below are key elements that help determine liability in rideshare accidents in Lehi.

Driver’s Status at the Time of the Accident

One of the first considerations in determining liability is the driver’s status when the accident occurred. Rideshare drivers operate under a system that assigns different insurance coverages based on their status:

  • Driver Offline: If the driver is not logged into the app or is not actively waiting for a ride, the rideshare company’s insurance does not apply. In this case, the driver’s personal insurance would be responsible for covering the damages or injuries.
  • Driver Online, No Passenger: When the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company’s limited insurance coverage applies. This typically includes third-party injury or property damage but does not cover passenger injuries.
  • Driver with Passenger: Once the driver has accepted a ride and is transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s full insurance coverage applies. This coverage includes passenger injuries, third-party injuries, and property damage caused by the driver.

Rideshare Company Liability

In some cases, the rideshare company may be liable for the accident. This is especially true if the company failed to meet its obligations regarding driver background checks, safety standards, or vehicle maintenance. If the company neglected to properly vet a driver or did not provide adequate insurance coverage during the appropriate time frame, it could be held responsible for any resulting accidents.

Shared Liability

In many cases, liability for rideshare accidents may be shared between multiple parties, including the driver, the rideshare company, and even other drivers involved in the incident. 

For example, if a driver ran a red light at the intersection of Main Street and State Street in Lehi, Utah, and crashed into a rideshare vehicle, that driver’s insurance could be liable for damages to the rideshare driver or passengers. In such cases, determining fault and pursuing compensation can be complex, making it essential for victims to understand their legal options.

Similarly, if the accident occurred due to a mechanical failure that was not the fault of the rideshare driver, the manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held responsible.

Negligence and Contributory Factors

When determining liability, negligence plays a central role. If the rideshare driver was negligent in their duties, such as driving under the influence, speeding, or failing to obey traffic laws, they may be held liable for the accident. In some cases, the rideshare company may also share responsibility if it is proven that the driver was not properly trained, supervised, or insured at the time of the accident.

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex, requiring a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Factors such as the driver’s status, the rideshare company’s actions, and other parties’ involvement must all be considered. 

An experienced Lehi rideshare accident lawyer can help navigate these complexities to ensure that the responsible party is held accountable and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Lehi

After a rideshare accident in Lehi, taking the proper steps to protect your health, rights, and ability to seek compensation is essential. The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but taking immediate action can help preserve important evidence and strengthen your case if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit. 

Below are key steps to take after a rideshare accident.

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

The first priority after any accident is to ensure that everyone is safe. Move away from traffic if possible to avoid further harm, and check for injuries to yourself, passengers, and others involved in the accident. Call 911 immediately if there are any injuries, even if they seem minor, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Report the Accident to the Police

In Lehi, as in most places, it is important to file a police report after an accident. A police report provides an official record of the accident and can serve as valuable evidence in your case. The officer will document the details of the accident, interview witnesses, and determine who may have been at fault. Be sure to obtain the report number and a copy of the police report.

Gather Information

Collect essential information from the accident scene. This includes the rideshare driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details. If the rideshare driver is not the only one involved in the accident, be sure to gather the same information from any other drivers as well. 

Additionally, take note of the accident’s location, time, and any traffic conditions. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information.

  • Rideshare driver info (name, phone, insurance)
  • Other drivers’ info (name, license, insurance)
  • Witnesses’ contact information
  • Photos of the scene, damages, and injuries

Document the Scene and Your Injuries

Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries you or others have sustained. Photos can serve as valuable evidence to back up your version of events. 

Additionally, track your medical treatments and expenses, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and any hospital stays. This documentation will be crucial if you need to prove the extent of your injuries.

Notify the Rideshare Company

After the accident, it is imperative to notify the rideshare company (Uber, Lyft, etc.) of the incident. Rideshare companies typically have insurance coverage in place for accidents involving their drivers, but the specifics depend on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. 

It is crucial to report the accident promptly to ensure that your claim is processed accurately. You can report the incident through the app or by contacting the company directly.

Contact an Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Consulting with an experienced Lehi rideshare accident lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take. A lawyer can help navigate the complexities of rideshare accident claims, including dealing with multiple insurance policies and determining who is liable for the accident.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we can also guide you through the process of filing a claim and seeking compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

Compensation Available for Rideshare Accident Victims

Victims of rideshare accidents in Lehi may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses resulting from the accident. Compensation is designed to cover not only medical expenses but also other damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. 

The amount of compensation you are eligible for will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of your injuries and the liability of the parties involved.

Medical Expenses

One of the most immediate costs following a rideshare accident is medical expenses. This includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, and prescription medications. 

Compensation can help cover these costs, both past and future, as long as they are related to the injuries sustained in the accident. For serious or long-term injuries, medical expenses can accumulate significantly, making compensation essential for recovery.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can include any time you missed from work immediately after the accident, as well as the potential for future lost earnings if your injuries impair your ability to return to your previous job. 

For victims with permanent injuries that reduce earning capacity, compensation may cover the difference between your pre-accident income and what you are able to earn moving forward.

Pain and Suffering

In addition to physical injuries, accident victims often endure emotional distress, pain, and suffering. Compensation for pain and suffering can account for the physical discomfort caused by the accident, as well as mental anguish, anxiety, depression, and a decreased quality of life. This type of compensation is non-economic and varies widely depending on the severity of the injuries and their long-term impact on your life.

Property Damage

If your personal property, such as your vehicle, was damaged in the rideshare accident, compensation can be awarded to repair or replace it. Rideshare accidents often involve property damage in addition to injuries, and it’s vital to make sure your vehicle or other belongings are covered as part of your claim.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, victims may be eligible for punitive damages. These are designed not to compensate for specific losses but to punish the party responsible for the accident if their behavior was egregious, reckless, or malicious. For example, if the rideshare driver was driving under the influence or acting with extreme disregard for safety, punitive damages may be awarded in addition to compensatory damages.

Wrongful Death Claims

In tragic cases where a rideshare accident results in the death of a loved one, the family may pursue a wrongful death claim. This can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress caused by the death. Families may also seek compensation for the financial support the deceased would have provided.

Rideshare accident victims in Lehi have several avenues for seeking compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more.

Navigating the complexities of insurance coverage, especially when multiple parties are involved, can be challenging. Seeking guidance from an experienced Lehi rideshare accident lawyer can help ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.

Dealing with Rideshare Companies and Their Insurance Policies

Dealing with rideshare companies and their insurance policies can be a complex process for accident victims in Lehi. Unlike traditional car accidents, where a single driver’s insurance may cover damages, rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties and complicated insurance coverage. 

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but this coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Understanding how these insurance policies work and navigating them is essential to ensuring that accident victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Rideshare Driver’s Insurance Coverage

Rideshare drivers must maintain their own auto insurance policies, which typically cover accidents that occur while driving for personal purposes. However, when a driver is working for a rideshare company, their personal policy may not cover any accident-related damages. 

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft offer their own insurance coverage for drivers when they are actively working for the platform.

Rideshare Company Insurance Policies

Rideshare companies provide liability insurance that can cover accidents that occur while drivers are on duty. However, the amount of coverage varies depending on the driver’s status during the accident. Rideshare companies typically have three levels of coverage:

  • Period 1: When the driver is online and available to accept a ride but has not yet picked up a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance provides limited liability coverage, usually around $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
  • Period 2: When the driver has accepted a ride and is on their way to pick up a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance increases to include higher coverage limits, typically around $1 million for third-party liability.
  • Period 3: When the driver is transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance provides full coverage, including up to $1 million in liability for injuries and damages caused by the driver.

Challenges with Rideshare Insurance Claims

One of the main challenges in dealing with rideshare companies and their insurance policies is determining which coverage applies to your situation. If the driver was not actively working for the rideshare company at the time of the accident, their personal insurance may be responsible for covering the damages. 

On the other hand, if the driver was on duty and the company’s insurance should apply, you may need to work with both the rideshare company’s insurer and your own.

Furthermore, rideshare companies often try to minimize their liability, leading to lengthy negotiations or disputes. It’s essential to understand the details of the insurance policy and how it applies to your specific case, as well as to have an experienced lawyer who can advocate on your behalf.

Working with an Attorney

Given the complexity of rideshare insurance claims, having an experienced Lehi rideshare accident lawyer is crucial. They can help navigate the multiple insurance policies involved and ensure you are not left to deal with the burden of covering these expenses on your own. 

Your attorney will also be able to help you determine which parties are responsible for your damages and seek compensation from the appropriate insurers.

Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks also known as Utah Injury Lawyers, serves clients from its offices in Provo and South Jordan, Utah. The firm is dedicated to providing personalized legal representation, ensuring each client receives the attention and advocacy they deserve. 

With a strong focus on achieving the best possible outcomes, their team leverages extensive experience in personal injury law to fight for fair compensation. Their commitment to client well-being is evident in their hands-on approach and unwavering dedication to justice.

How Our Firm Assists Rideshare Accident Victims in Lehi

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with rideshare accident cases in Lehi. Victims of rideshare accidents often face an array of legal and insurance issues that can be difficult to navigate on their own. 

Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to helping clients throughout the entire legal process, ensuring that they receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Expertise in Rideshare Accident Claims

Rideshare accidents involve multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers. Our firm has the experience to handle the intricacies of these claims, including understanding the different insurance coverage available depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. 

We will carefully review the details of your case to determine which insurance policy applies and fight for the maximum coverage available.

Thorough Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Our team thoroughly investigates to gather crucial evidence to support your case. This includes obtaining accident reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and any other relevant documentation. We work closely with experts when necessary, such as accident reconstruction specialists, to build a strong case proving the at-fault party’s liability.

Skilled Negotiation and Litigation

We will work tirelessly to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that they do not take advantage of you. Our experienced attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. We will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation to which you are entitled.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accident Claims in Lehi

In most cases, passengers or others involved in an accident cannot sue the rideshare company directly. However, you may be able to file a claim against the driver’s insurance policy or, in some instances, the rideshare company’s insurance. Depending on the situation, rideshare companies may be liable if the driver was working for them during the accident and the accident falls under specific coverage criteria.

In Utah, rideshare companies provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but this may not always extend to passengers in every situation. If the rideshare driver’s insurance is not applicable or insufficient, your own car insurance may offer coverage under your personal injury protection policy, assuming you have it. 

If no coverage is available through the rideshare company or your personal policy, you may be able to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance.

In Utah, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including rideshare accidents, is generally four years from the date of the accident. However, it is always recommended to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and all relevant evidence is preserved.

You may still have options if the rideshare driver is at fault for the accident but their insurance is insufficient to cover your medical bills, lost wages, or other damages. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft typically provide additional coverage for situations like this, depending on whether the driver was actively driving for the company at the time of the accident. 

If the rideshare company’s insurance is also inadequate, you may be able to pursue compensation through your own Underinsured Motorist Coverage, if you have it. It’s important to work with an experienced attorney to explore all available avenues for compensation in these cases.

Call Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks Now

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Lehi, it’s essential to have skilled legal representation to navigate the complexities of these cases. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we are committed to helping accident victims understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. 

Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the legal process, from dealing with insurance companies to negotiating fair settlements. Call us today at (801) 500-4000 for a consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.

Call today for a free consultion!

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Accidents involving different types of vehicles are handled differently. For example, an accident involving a UTA bus may be much more complex than a single-car accident.

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OUR HEROES

“When there has been a serious auto accident and all you can do is concentrate on getting your critically injured family member well again, you need someone who will have your back. That someone is Mark Flickinger. He is qualified, capable, confident and will fight for your best interests. His staff are supreme and articulate. Together they made our lives good again and will always be our heroes.”
– Karen S.