Uber and Lyft Accidents in New Mexico
Injured? Talk to an Albuquerque rideshare accident lawyer
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are popular in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and throughout New Mexico. But when a rideshare driver causes a car accident, people can suffer serious injuries. When victims try to recover financial compensation, they find it’s a very complicated process.
That’s why it’s important to have experienced legal representation from a car accident lawyer after a rideshare crash in New Mexico. Attorney Andras Szantho of Szantho Law Firm knows how to build strong cases that hold negligent drivers accountable. He fights back against insurance company attempts to minimize compensation to get the results his clients need and deserve.
What are the top causes of rideshare accidents?
Uber and Lyft drivers have to meet certain requirements, but they don’t receive any special training. They spend a lot of time on the road picking up and transporting passengers. And just like other drivers, they aren’t always responsible when they’re behind the wheel.
Some accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles are caused by drivers who speed or drive recklessly, hoping to get more fares faster. Others are distracted – they check the ridesharing app or text as they’re driving. Some drivers work long hours or have other jobs and are fatigued. Some drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The result is a crash that can leave people seriously hurt. Common injuries include fractured and broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and injuries to the head, neck and back. Recovering from these injuries may require medical treatment such as surgery, hospitalization, prescription medication, physical therapy, home health care, and multiple follow-up appointments with doctors.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, medical expenses can add up quickly and become overwhelming. But if you can’t work because of your injuries, there is less income coming in. Many people wonder how they are going to pay the bills.
If the negligence of an Uber or Lyft driver caused the collision, you shouldn’t have to pay. But recovering compensation can be challenging. Insurance companies may dispute your Uber or Lyft accident claim. An experienced rideshare accident lawyer can help.
Who pays for damages after an Uber or Lyft accident?
Drivers for most rideshare services are considered independent contractors. They use their own cars and are required by state law to carry their own auto insurance. Uber and Lyft both have insurance policies that may apply in the event of a crash, but whose insurance company should be responsible for covering your losses? The short answer is, “it depends.”
Here are the difference scenarios to consider:
- Drivers who are not on duty and not picking up or transporting passengers are covered by their own car insurance policy.
- Drivers who are on duty and waiting for a ride request may be covered by the service’s supplemental liability insurance for bodily injury per person, bodily injury per accident, and property damage.
- Drivers who are on duty and are picking up a passenger or have a passenger in their vehicle should be covered by the service’s liability insurance policy.
Things can get very confusing after you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by an Uber or Lyft driver. Drivers may deny doing anything wrong, even if they were speeding, texting and driving, or engaged in other negligent behavior. If you were driving another vehicle, you may be blamed for causing the accident.
Insurance companies are supposed to help, but they are focused on paying you as little as possible. The Uber/Lyft car accident insurance company may claim the driver was off duty and deny any liability. They may question the seriousness of your injuries or claim that they were pre-existing. You may be offered a settlement that doesn’t come close to covering all of your damages.
A rideshare accident lawyer can fight for your rights
Many people aren’t sure what to do after an Uber or Lyft accident. Call police to the scene. Get medical attention, even if you think you are fine. Report the Uber or Lyft accident, either by calling them or using their online accident report form. Then talk to an attorney.
Auto insurance companies have teams of lawyers looking out for the best interests. That’s why you need an experienced Lyft/Uber accident lawyer who is ready to fight for you and look out for yours.
Attorney Szantho investigates accidents and knows where to find evidence that holds negligent drivers accountable. He carefully reviews police accident reports and medical records, and he understands how to seek out and interviews eyewitnesses. If needed, he consults accident reconstruction experts and other specialists who can provide valuable insight and testimony.
He determines your total damages and fights for maximum compensation from all insurance companies that are liable for your injuries. Many times, he is able to negotiate a settlement that meets your needs. But Attorney Szantho is also ready to fight for you in court if that’s what it takes to get the compensation you deserve.
Talk to an attorney about your options today
It’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible following a car crash involving an Uber, Lyft, or some other ridesharing service. While the statute of limitations for taking legal action is generally three years, waiting too long may hurt your case. Over time, witnesses can forget important details and evidence can be lost or destroyed.
We know you have lots of questions. How do I sue Uber or Lyft for my accident? How do I recover compensation for an Uber or Lyft passenger injury claim? How much compensation can I recover? Our firm can help you get answers.
Learn more about how Szantho Law Firm can help. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Lyft/Uber accident lawyer. Attorney Szantho can review the details of your ridesharing accident and go over your legal options.