Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI
A rideshare accident in Grand Rapids can involve multiple insurance policies, including your own coverage, the other driver’s, and the rideshare company’s. Our experienced Grand Rapids rideshare accident lawyer untangles these complex details to fight for full compensation that covers your economic and non-economic losses.
Contact us today to discuss your case with an attorney for free.
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Legal Representation for Uber/Lyft Accidents
Whether you’re traveling to the Gerald Ford International Airport airport, catching a ride to the Van Andel Arena, or going to downtown Grand Rapids with friends, rideshare services are incredibly popular and convenient. It’s not surprising that 36% of American adults have used ridesharing services since Uber launched in 2010. However, the rise of transportation network companies has led to certain challenges that have increased demand for rideshare injury lawyers near Grand Rapids, Michigan.
It’s estimated that 1–2 million people drive for Uber. Most drive part time to supplement their income. Unfortunately, rideshare drivers may not follow universal safety protocols, and insurance coverage limits vary depending on whether or not the driver has a paying passenger.
If you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft accident as a driver or a passenger, Michigan’s standard no-fault insurance rules apply, but transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft must provide up to $1 million secondary liability insurance, which can complicate the claims process. Here’s what you need to know about Grand Rapids rideshare accidents and how a qualified personal injury attorney at Barrix Law Firm can help with your claim.
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Who Pays After an Uber or Lyft Crash?
Understanding how auto insurance works after a rideshare accident in Michigan is important whether you’re a passenger, a rideshare driver, or a third-party motorist. Coverage for medical bills and lost wages may be available through your personal injury protection (PIP) plan. Uber and Lyft offer additional liability coverage, and it’s also possible to sue for damages that exceed your coverage limits. See how the rideshare injury claims process works below.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
PIP is an important part of Michigan’s no-fault insurance coverage. It pays for your medical care and up to 85% of your lost wages whether you were a passenger or driver. If you don’t have your own auto insurance, you can file a claim through your spouse or a resident relative. Emergency safety-net coverage is available through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan if no other policy is available.
Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide a second layer of liability coverage in case of an accident. However, coverage limits depend on whether the rideshare driver is using the app or traveling to or from a pickup.
- Once the driver accepts a ride, the company must provide third-party liability insurance with a combined $1 million limit for injuries and property damage according to the Michigan Limousine, Taxicab, and Transportation Network Company Act.
- If the rideshare driver is off the clock, his or her personal auto insurance applies.
- If the driver is logged into the app, the rideshare company provides secondary liability insurance of $50,000 per person or $100,000 per accident.
Compensation From Lawsuits
Michigan’s no-fault insurance system limits litigation related to car accidents, but it’s still possible to sue the at-fault driver if the accident caused a serious injury or impairment. Lawsuits allow you to recover compensation for pain and suffering, which isn’t available through insurance. Damages also cover costs exceeding the limits of first-party or third-party insurance coverage.
Compensation Available After Rideshare Accidents
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident involving Uber, Lyft, or another transportation network company, you may be entitled to several types of compensation to cover your medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses. These benefits can come from a variety of sources, including your PIP coverage, the other driver’s insurance, or a third-party lawsuit.
Medical Bills
Coverage for medical expenses, including treatment, medications, and physical therapy, is available up to the limits of your PIP plan.
Lost Wages
PIP insurance pays for up to 85% of your lost wages for 3 years. If you’re unable to work due to permanent injuries, you may be able to file an at-fault claim to recover additional compensation.
Household Services
PIP also includes a nominal payment of up to $20 per day to cover domestic services, such as housekeeping, childcare, shopping, and meal preparation.
Property Damage
Compensation for vehicle damage may be available through your collision insurance. Michigan’s mini-tort law lets you recover up to $3,000 from the at-fault driver. Uber and Lyft also provide secondary collision coverage to rideshare drivers.
Pain & Suffering
Non-economic damages for pain and suffering are only available if you file a third-party liability claim against the at-fault driver. This compensation reimburses you for emotional distress, loss of enjoyment, and pain caused by severe injuries.
Death Benefits
In case of a fatal rideshare accident, surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for final expenses, grief, and financial or emotional support provided by the decedent.
9 Steps to Take After a Grand Rapids Rideshare Accident
Rideshare injury collisions are very similar to other Grand Rapids car accident cases. It’s important to protect your safety, seek medical care, and follow standard procedures for reporting the accident to law enforcement and your insurance company. Here are a few steps to take.
- Move to Safety: First, move to a safe location away from traffic, and check for injuries. Do not attempt to move anyone who is injured unless they’re in immediate danger.
- Call Law Enforcement: Michigan requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries or more than $1,000 in property damage. If the accident is serious, call 911. For minor accidents, call the Grand Rapids Police Department non-emergency line at 616-456-3400.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of your injuries and property damage. Weather and road conditions may also be relevant.
- Exchange Information: Get a copy of the driver’s license, insurance policy, and license plate number. Make sure you know what rideshare service they were working for and what their ride status was at the time.
- Identify Witnesses: If anyone saw the accident, collect their name and contact information. Ask them to make a statement about what they noticed before and during the collision.
- Get Medical Care: Seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Doctors can check you for concussions and internal injuries, and they may be able to determine if you have whiplash before the pain and soreness kick in. Keep copies of all medical records and payments.
- Notify Your Insurance: Notify your auto insurance company of the accident. If you’re injured, the first step is to file a first-party PIP claim through your own policy. You have 1 year from the date of the accident to file a claim for benefits.
- Notify the Rideshare Service: Report the accident to the relevant rideshare service. Drivers and passengers can use the app to make a report. Third parties can file a claim online at Inquiries.Uber.com or Lyft.com.
- Consult With an Attorney: Rideshare claims can be complex due to the layers of insurance involved. An experienced Uber or Lyft accident attorney in Grand Rapids can help you navigate the process and ensure that you’re fairly compensated for your injuries and property damage.
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Why Choose Barrix Law Firm for Your Rideshare Case?
Recovering from a car accident is hard enough without the complexities of navigating the legal system and rideshare injury claims process. At Barrix Law Firm, we offer experienced, personalized legal representation to protect your rights and help you pursue full compensation through your PIP insurance, Uber/Lyft, or the other driver.
We have a deep understanding of Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws and the policies that rideshare companies use. As a local personal injury firm based in Grand Rapids, you’re not just a case number. Our team cares about the outcome of your case, and we’ll advocate for your rights throughout the process.
- In-Depth Knowledge: With over 30 years of legal experience, we have in-depth knowledge of Michigan’s no-fault insurance system, minimum liability coverage requirements, and how these laws apply to rideshare accidents.
- Aggressive Negotiation: We’ll approach the claims adjuster and insurance company directly to fight for maximum compensation. You should never have to accept a settlement that’s worth less than you deserve.
- Comprehensive Support: If a settlement cannot be reached or liability is disputed, we’ll handle every aspect of litigation from investigating the accident to representing you in court. We offer regular updates and clear communication.
- Proven Results: Rideshare accident attorney Jason Barrix has successfully recovered large settlements for local families injured in car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. We have earned over 100 5-star reviews from satisfied clients.
- No Upfront Fees: From injuries to property damage, a rideshare accident can have a significant effect on your finances. Fortunately, our attorney works on a contingency basis, so you don’t pay anything unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Grand Rapids Rideshare Accident FAQs
How Long Does a Rideshare Accident Claim Take?
Timelines depend on the complexity of your case and the severity of your injuries. Many insurance claims settle in 6 months or less. Complex cases can take a year or more to resolve, especially if your case goes to court. To ensure that you’re fairly compensated for rideshare injuries, it’s important to wait until you’re fully healed, so recovery times can play a role in how long your case takes to settle.
What Types of Rideshare Accident Cases Do You Handle?
We represent clients in first-party and third-party insurance claims. We don't just handle rideshare passenger accidents. We also represent rideshare drivers, third-party motorists, and pedestrians. Our Grand Rapids rideshare injury lawyer can assess the facts of your case, determine if you’re entitled to compensation, and find out which insurance coverage applies.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents?
Rideshare injuries are very similar to other car accident cases. The most common injuries include whiplash, soft-tissue injuries, broken bones, lacerations, contusions, organ damage, and back injuries. Anxiety and emotional trauma are also common.
What Are the Top Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Grand Rapids?
Rideshare accidents in Kent County occur for a variety of reasons, including distracted driving, driver fatigue, speeding, and traffic violations, such as running a stop sign or red light. Weather conditions, unfamiliar roads, and third-party drivers can also be to blame. A Grand Rapids rideshare accident lawyer can investigate your claim to determine who’s responsible.
How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim?
In Michigan, you have 1 year from the date of the accident to file an application for first-party PIP benefits. After the initial application, you have 1 year from the date of service to file a claim for unpaid medical bills and expenses. If you’re filing an at-fault claim, you have 3 years from the date of the accident to file the lawsuit per MCL Section 600.5805. Schedule a free consultation with our Grand Rapids Uber accident lawyer to ensure you understand all deadlines that apply to your case.
Get in Touch With a Grand Rapids Rideshare Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident involving Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service, don’t wait to get the compensation that you need to make a full recovery. Our rideshare accident lawyer in Grand Rapids can help you take on the insurance companies to get the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Contact Barrix Law Firm today for a free case review.
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