With the growing popularity of ride-sharing services like Uber & Lyft, accidents involving these vehicles have become more common. If you have been involved in a rideshare accident, you may be facing serious injuries and mounting medical bills. You might also be wondering who is responsible for covering your expenses and losses. In these situations, it’s essential to have an experienced and knowledgeable Cincinnati rideshare accident lawyer on your side.
That’s where we come in. At Babin Law, LLC we understand the complexities of rideshare accident cases and are dedicated to helping victims obtain the compensation they deserve. Our Cincinnati Uber & Lyft accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Don’t wait to get the legal help you need – contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
What are the Unique Challenges of Cincinnati Uber & Lyft Claims?
A rideshare accident claim is unique for several reasons.
First, the use of Uber & Lyft’s ride-sharing services introduces complexities regarding liability and insurance coverage. Because Uber & Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, determining who is responsible for the accident and who will cover damages can be challenging. Additionally, Uber & Lyft have their own insurance policies, which vary depending on the status of the driver at the time of the accident (i.e., whether they were on or off-duty, driving a passenger, or en route to pick up a passenger). Unlike traditional car accidents, where the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers damages and injuries, Uber & Lyft accidents may involve multiple insurance policies, including Uber’s commercial insurance policy, the driver’s personal insurance policy, and the insurance policy of any other drivers involved in the accident.
Another unique aspect of Uber & Lyft accident claims is the potential for multiple parties to be involved, including the driver of another vehicle or even the Uber & Lyft passenger themselves. In some cases, the passenger may be partly responsible for the accident if they distracted the driver or interfered with their ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Finally, Uber & Lyft accident claims may involve unique legal issues, such as the application of state and federal laws governing ridesharing services and the interpretation of Uber & Lyft’s terms of service.
Classification of Rideshare Drivers in Cincinnati
In Ohio, rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors. This means that they are not considered employees of Uber or Lyft, but rather are self-employed individuals who provide services to the company on a contract basis. As independent contractors, rideshare drivers are responsible for their own expenses, such as gas, maintenance, and insurance, and are not entitled to the same benefits and protections as traditional employees, such as minimum wage, overtime pay, and workers’ compensation.
The classification of rideshare drivers as independent contractors has been the subject of legal disputes and regulatory challenges in various states and jurisdictions. However, in Ohio, a 2020 decision by the state’s Supreme Court affirmed that rideshare drivers are independent contractors and not employees under Ohio law. The court’s decision was based on several factors, including the level of control that Uber & Lyft exercises over its drivers, the flexibility that drivers have in setting their own schedules and choosing which rides to accept, and the fact that drivers use their own vehicles and pay for their own expenses, such as gas and maintenance.
This means that in the event of an accident involving a rideshare driver, liability and insurance issues may be complicated, and it’s important to work with an experienced Cincinnati Uber & Lyft attorney who understands the unique legal issues involved in pursuing a claim against Uber/Lyft or its drivers.
What Can I Recover in a Cincinnati Uber & Lyft Accident Claim?
The amount that you can recover in a Cincinnati Uber & Lyft accident lawsuit will depend on several factors. In general, you may be able to recover compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: You may be able to recover compensation for the cost of medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages: If you were unable to work as a result of the accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your lost wages and any future loss of earning capacity.
- Property damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Pain and suffering: You may be able to recover compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the accident.
Contact our Cincinnati Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Today
Rideshare accident claims are unique and can be complicated, involving multiple insurance policies and legal issues. At Babin Law, LLC we will advocate for your rights. Our Cincinnati Uber & Lyft accident attorneys will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. These cases may be more complex than normal cases, but we will continue to fight for you every step of the way. Contact us today for your free consultation.
