Legal Guidance After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Phoenix
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a common part of daily transportation in Phoenix. While convenient, these services have also led to an increase in complex accident claims involving multiple insurance policies and disputed liability. If you were injured while riding in an Uber or Lyft—or if you were hit by a rideshare driver—speaking with an experienced Phoenix Uber accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue full compensation.
Farar & Lewis offers free consultations to rideshare accident victims throughout Phoenix. Our legal team is experienced in navigating the unique challenges these cases present and is ready to advocate for you.
Call us today to speak with someone immediately about your case at (602) 883-2633.
Why Rideshare Accidents Are Legally Complex
Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes involve multiple layers of insurance coverage and legal responsibility. Liability often depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
Key questions include:
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Was the driver logged into the Uber or Lyft app?
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Was the driver waiting for a ride request?
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Was a passenger actively in the vehicle?
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Was another driver at fault?
Each scenario triggers different insurance policies, making it essential to have legal guidance from a Phoenix Uber accident lawyer.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage Explained
Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident.
Driver Logged Out of the App
If the rideshare driver was not logged into the app, the accident is treated like a standard car crash. The driver’s personal auto insurance typically applies.
Driver Logged In but No Passenger
When the driver is available and waiting for a ride request, Uber and Lyft generally provide limited liability coverage.
Passenger in the Vehicle or Ride Accepted
If a passenger is in the vehicle or the driver is en route to pick one up, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in many cases.
Understanding which policy applies is critical to recovering full compensation.
Who May Be Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Liability in a rideshare accident may extend to multiple parties, including:
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The Uber or Lyft driver
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Another negligent driver
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Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider
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A third-party vehicle owner or employer
Arizona’s pure comparative negligence system allows fault to be shared among parties. A Phoenix Uber accident lawyer investigates all potential sources of liability to maximize your recovery.
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents in Phoenix
Rideshare drivers often face pressures that increase accident risk, such as navigating unfamiliar routes, managing apps, and working long hours.
Common causes include:
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Distracted driving due to app use
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Speeding to meet ride demand
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Driver fatigue
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Failure to yield or obey traffic signals
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Inexperienced drivers unfamiliar with Phoenix roads
Identifying the cause of the crash is essential for building a strong claim.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, depending on the severity of the collision.
Common injuries include:
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Whiplash and neck injuries
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Back and spinal injuries
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
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Broken bones and fractures
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Soft tissue injuries
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Internal organ damage
Even low-speed collisions can result in injuries that require long-term medical care.
Compensation Available to Rideshare Accident Victims
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
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Medical expenses
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Hospital bills and surgeries
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Physical therapy and rehabilitation
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Lost wages
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Loss of earning capacity
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Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Loss of enjoyment of life
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Long-term disability or impairment
In severe cases, future medical costs and long-term care may also be included.
Why Insurance Companies Dispute Rideshare Claims
Insurance companies frequently dispute rideshare accident claims by arguing:
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The wrong policy applies
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The driver was not logged into the app
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The injuries were pre-existing
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The victim shares fault
These disputes can delay or reduce compensation. A Phoenix Uber accident lawyer handles communications with insurers and ensures your claim is supported by strong evidence.
How Farar Law Group Handles Uber and Lyft Accident Cases
At Farar Law Group, we understand the nuances of rideshare accident claims. Our legal team carefully reviews app data, trip records, insurance policies, and accident reports to determine liability and coverage.
We assist clients by:
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Identifying applicable insurance policies
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Gathering and preserving evidence
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Handling all insurance negotiations
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Accurately calculating damages
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Filing lawsuits when necessary
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Arizona’s Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Accidents
In Arizona, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident date. Delays can weaken your case and jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
Early legal involvement allows your attorney to preserve critical evidence, including rideshare app data and surveillance footage.
Call Farar & Lewis After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Phoenix
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you deserve clear answers and strong legal representation. Rideshare companies and insurers should be held accountable when negligence causes harm.
Contact Farar & Lewis today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Phoenix accident lawyer. Let us fight for the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.
Call us today to speak with someone immediately about your case at (602) 883-2633.
Sources
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Uber – Insurance Coverage Overview
https://www.uber.com -
Lyft – Insurance Protection Policies
https://www.lyft.com -
Arizona Department of Insurance – Auto Insurance Information
https://difi.az.gov
