Rideshare services such as Uber, Lyft, and Veyo have transformed transportation across Phoenix. With a simple tap on a phone, passengers can request a ride and reach their destination quickly. But while these services are convenient, they are not immune to accidents. If you are involved in a rideshare crash whether as a passenger, a driver of another vehicle, or even the rideshare driver the experience can be confusing, overwhelming, and stressful.
At Lebovitz Law Group, we understand the unique challenges of these cases. Our experienced rideshare accident attorneys know how to navigate complex insurance issues and liability questions to protect victims’ rights. With the leadership and personal involvement of Managing Attorney Brandon Lebovitz, our law firm in Phoenix provides clients with direct, personalized attention. We work diligently to secure fair compensation and reduce the stress that often follows an accident.
Why Rideshare Accidents Are Increasing in Phoenix
The widespread use of rideshare technologies has created new safety and legal issues. More drivers are using their personal vehicles for commercial purposes, and rideshare companies have expanded to include not only passenger services but also delivery platforms such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Postmates.
With more vehicles on the road tied to these services, the frequency of rideshare accidents has risen significantly. Many of these crashes result in complicated insurance disputes because they involve independent contractors operating personal cars for commercial use. Unlike traditional taxi services, rideshare companies do not directly employ their drivers, which often makes liability and insurance coverage less straightforward.
For these reasons, consulting an experienced ride share accident lawyer immediately after an incident is crucial.
Determining Liability in a Rideshare Accident
One of the most important aspects of a rideshare accident case is establishing who is responsible. Liability often depends on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the crash, as well as the involvement of other motorists or the rideshare company itself.
The Rideshare Driver
If the driver of the Uber or Lyft vehicle was negligent, they may be held accountable. However, insurance coverage depends on whether the rideshare app was active:
- App Off: The driver is considered to be off duty, and only their personal insurance policy applies.
- App On, No Passenger: Limited liability coverage from the rideshare company may apply, but the driver’s personal insurance could still be the primary policy.
- Passenger Onboard or En Route: Uber and Lyft provide the most extensive coverage in this situation, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
Another Motorist
If another driver caused the collision, their insurance should cover damages. Problems may arise if the driver is uninsured or underinsured, in which case the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured coverage may become relevant.
Rideshare Companies
While Uber and Lyft provide significant insurance coverage during active rides, their liability policies are structured in layers. Determining which policy applies requires detailed legal analysis, something a skilled rideshare lawyer can handle effectively.
Multiple Parties
Some crashes involve multiple vehicles or shared responsibility. Arizona follows a comparative negligence system, meaning fault can be divided among several parties. Damages are awarded based on each party’s percentage of responsibility.
Because of these complexities, accident victims searching for an accident lawyer near me benefit from choosing a team with experience in rideshare-specific cases.
How Lebovitz Law Group Protects Rideshare Accident Victims
Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare crash requires more than just filing an insurance claim. Insurance companies often use tactics to minimize payouts, and rideshare companies have teams of lawyers protecting their interests. At Lebovitz Law Group, we provide the following services to level the playing field:
Comprehensive Accident Investigation
We go beyond basic reports and collect all available evidence, including:
- Police reports and witness statements
- Rideshare app data and driver activity logs
- Smartphone records and GPS data
- Traffic camera and surveillance footage
- Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
When necessary, we work with accident reconstruction experts to establish how the crash happened and who is at fault.
Handling Insurance Claims
Rideshare accidents often involve several insurance policies. Our attorneys identify all possible coverage options and pursue them aggressively. We manage all communication with insurers to prevent clients from making statements that could hurt their claims.
Negotiation and Litigation
Our team has extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies and rideshare corporations. We understand their strategies and are prepared to counter them. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take cases to trial. This willingness to litigate ensures companies take our clients’ claims seriously.
Personalized Legal Guidance
Unlike larger firms where clients may feel like just another case number, Lebovitz Law Group provides one-on-one support. Attorney Brandon Lebovitz is directly involved in every case, ensuring clients receive both legal expertise and compassionate guidance.
Types of Injuries Common in Rideshare Accidents
The injuries sustained in rideshare accidents can range from minor to life-altering. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Can cause cognitive problems, memory loss, or personality changes. Even concussions may result in lasting symptoms.
- Spinal Cord and Back Injuries: May lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, or paralysis.
- Whiplash and Neck Trauma: Often underestimated but can cause headaches, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
- Broken Bones: Arms, legs, and ribs are frequently fractured in rideshare collisions.
- Internal Organ Damage: Serious but sometimes hidden injuries that require immediate medical attention.
- Emotional Trauma: Many victims experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression after an accident.
Because some injuries may not be immediately visible, victims should always seek prompt medical evaluation and then contact a rideshare accident lawyer to protect their rights.
Different Rideshare Services and Their Coverage
Not all rideshare or delivery companies operate under the same insurance and liability rules.
- Uber and Lyft: Both offer layered coverage that varies depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride, en route, or transporting a passenger.
- Veyo: Specializes in medical transportation. Accidents involving Veyo can be particularly severe because passengers may already have health conditions. Coverage may be limited depending on the circumstances.
- Food Delivery Services: Drivers for Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Postmates face unique risks because they make frequent stops and may be distracted by delivery instructions. Their insurance coverage is often less comprehensive than passenger rideshare services.
Why Hiring a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Matters
Trying to handle a rideshare accident claim alone can leave victims vulnerable. Insurance companies are skilled at reducing payouts, and rideshare corporations structure their policies to protect themselves first. Having an experienced rideshare lawyer on your side ensures that:
- All sources of compensation are pursued.
- Liability is properly established.
- Insurance adjusters cannot pressure you into an unfair settlement.
- Your case is prepared for trial if necessary.
If you are searching for a trusted accident attorney near me, Lebovitz Law Group offers the knowledge, resources, and client-focused service needed to achieve the best outcome.
Conclusion
Being involved in a rideshare accident in Phoenix can be overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate the process alone. With multiple insurance policies, evolving regulations, and corporations working to minimize payouts, these cases require specialized legal knowledge.
At Lebovitz Law Group, our dedicated rideshare accident attorneys have the experience and resources to handle even the most complex claims. Whether you are a passenger, another motorist, or a rideshare driver, our law firm in Phoenix will fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare crash, contact Lebovitz Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced accident lawyer near me.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can be held liable in a rideshare accident?
Liability may fall on the rideshare driver, another motorist, or the rideshare company depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. Sometimes multiple parties share responsibility.
What types of injuries are most common?
Victims often suffer head trauma, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, fractures, internal injuries, and emotional distress.
How is fault proven?
Fault is determined through evidence such as police reports, app data, witness testimony, and sometimes accident reconstruction. An experienced rideshare accident attorney will handle this process for you.
Do Uber and Lyft provide enough insurance for accident victims?
Coverage is strongest when the driver is actively transporting a passenger, but companies often dispute claims. Having a rideshare lawyer ensures coverage is maximized and victims receive fair compensation.