Mobile, AL Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Alabama?

After being hurt while riding in an Uber, Lyft, or other ridesharing service, knowing who is liable for your damages can be difficult. Let Cunningham Bounds and our rideshare accident attorneys in Mobile, Alabama, be your legal guides and moral support during this difficult time. Our team can investigate every aspect of your accident to determine all parties responsible, whether it involves negligent drivers or the rideshare companies themselves. It is our goal from the very beginning to do all we can to get you all the compensation possible from whatever party or parties are accountable for the car accident that caused you harm.

What sets Cunningham Bounds apart from other law firms in Alabama?

• We were first established in 1958.
• We have helped thousands of clients throughout the years.
• We have recovered billions in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• We have an experienced, highly-awarded team of attorneys.

Let’s get started on your claim today. Just call (251) 299-0101 when you can.

Help for All Types of Rideshare Accidents

We handle all types of rideshare collisions, including:

• Drunk driving rideshare accidents 
• Distracted driving rideshare accidents
• Hit and run rideshare accidents
• Head-on rideshare collisions 
• Rear-end rideshare accidents 

Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?

People often encounter complications after a rideshare accident due to initially unclear liability for the crash. Unlike a typical car accident in which you can usually point at the other driver and know they did wrong, multiple parties might have contributed to your rideshare accident in some way. Our goal is to identify all possible liable parties, ensuring that no aspect of your accident is overlooked.

Parties who could be liable for your injuries and damages include: 

• Another driver who crashed into your rideshare service vehicle
• Your own rideshare driver, who may have been driving recklessly
• Another rideshare passenger who intentionally distracted the driver

Services like Uber POOL allow strangers into your rideshare vehicle for the trade-off of a reduced cost for the service. What happens if that stranger does something to cause your driver to crash? Our legal team is adept at addressing these unique complexities. 

Furthermore, liability is complicated by the fact that Uber and Lyft drivers are not considered employees. Instead, they are independent contractors. Employment lawsuits have been filed against both companies for alleged mislabeling of employees, but none have been successful in rebranding rideshare drivers as actual employees of these companies. As such, Uber and Lyft might be able to sidestep any degree of accountability if you get into a rideshare accident, but our targeted approach addresses these challenges to seek accountability from all angles.

Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Accidents

Determining liability in a rideshare accident requires a deep dive into the driver’s digital log. Insurance coverage is divided into three distinct periods:

The Driver is Logged Off (Offline)

When the rideshare app is turned off, the driver is considered a private citizen. If they cause an accident while running personal errands or commuting, their personal auto insurance policy is the only source of recovery. Uber and Lyft provide $0 coverage during this phase.

The Driver is Logged On (Available) but Has No Request

If the driver has the app open and is waiting for a ping but has not yet accepted a passenger, a "contingent" policy applies. Under Alabama law, if the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim (which is common, as many personal policies exclude "commercial use"), Uber or Lyft must provide:

• $50,000 for bodily injury per person
• $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

The Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Is Transporting a Passenger

This is the highest level of coverage. From the moment the driver clicks "Accept" on their phone until the passenger safely exits the vehicle at their destination, a $1 million commercial liability policy is active. This policy covers injuries to the passenger, as well as injuries to other drivers or pedestrians if the rideshare driver was at fault.

Compensation for Your Injuries & Losses

Whether a rideshare driver, the driver of another vehicle, or someone else was responsible for the crash in which you were injured, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.

With our help, you may be able to seek compensation for:

• Lost wages
• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Permanent disability
• Lost earning capacity
• Wrongful death (if applicable)
• And more

Our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers in Mobile, AL can help you identify all liable parties and pursue maximum compensation for your damages. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about your rights.

Rideshare Regulations in Alabama

Understanding the local regulations governing rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft in Alabama is essential for drivers and passengers. Alabama mandates that rideshare drivers maintain specific insurance coverages and adhere to safety standards that aim to protect passenger welfare. Failure to comply with these regulations can impact liability and the outcome of your compensation claim.

Rideshare drivers in Alabama must pass background checks and meet vehicle safety requirements, ensuring a higher standard of care for all passengers. These state-imposed standards are in place to reduce the number of accidents caused by driver negligence or poorly maintained vehicles, although accidents can still occur. Familiarizing yourself with these laws can provide valuable context when pursuing a claim for compensation after an accident.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Rideshare Accident?

Immediately after a rideshare accident, ensure everyone is safe and seek medical attention if necessary. Document the scene by taking photographs of the vehicles, any injuries, and the surroundings. Exchange information with all involved parties, including the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved. It is important to notify local authorities and file a police report, which becomes a crucial document in insurance claims and legal proceedings. Reach out to Cunningham Bounds to inform our team of your situation. Early legal involvement can assist you in preserving evidence and managing communications with insurance companies, ensuring your rights remain protected throughout the process.

How Does Alabama’s Contributory Negligence Law Affect My Claim?

Alabama follows a contributory negligence law, which means that if you are found to be even slightly at fault for the accident, you could be barred from recovering any compensation. This strict rule makes it critical to accurately determine and prove liability, urging the need for comprehensive investigation and preparation.

Can I Pursue a Claim if the Rideshare Driver Was Not at Fault?

Yes, you can still pursue a claim even if the rideshare driver was not at fault. In situations where another party caused the accident, such as another negligent driver or road hazards from improper maintenance by responsible authorities, you have the right to seek compensation. Alabama law allows for claims against multiple responsible parties, and our team can help identify all avenues of liability.

How long do I have to file a claim in Mobile, AL?

Under the Alabama Code, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to sue.

Can I still recover money if I wasn't wearing a seatbelt?

While Alabama law requires seatbelt use, not wearing one does not automatically disqualify you from a claim. However, the insurance company may use it to argue that you contributed to your own injuries. Our legal team is prepared to counter these "contributory negligence" tactics.

Should I speak to the insurance adjuster from Uber or Lyft?

No. Their goal is to settle your case for as little as possible. They may record your statement and use it against you later. It is always best to let your lawyer handle all communications.

We Get to Work While You Get to Rest

Sorting through the details of rideshare accident claims is something we are passionate about here at Cunningham Bounds. We know you have plenty on your mind, like much needed bedrest, after a bad accident. Let us handle the questions of liability, damages, and so forth by letting us act as your Mobile ridesharing accident lawyers today.

For answers to your most pressing questions, call (251) 299-0101 for a FREE consultation.