Munley Law’s Pittsburgh rideshare accident lawyers help injured passengers, drivers, and pedestrians pursue compensation after Uber and Lyft crashes. With nearly 70 years of experience, the firm has built a national reputation in personal injury law and secured numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured clients.
Rideshare accident claims can quickly become complicated, often involving overlapping insurance policies, multiple liable parties, and aggressive corporate defense teams. Whether your injuries occurred as a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, having an experienced legal team can make a significant difference.
Recognized by organizations such as Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers, our Pittsburgh attorneys have handled complex catastrophic injury litigation and prepare every case as though it may go to trial. We thoroughly investigate each accident, establish liability, and pursue every available avenue of compensation while clients focus on recovery.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case, ask questions, and better understand your legal options.
Call Us At 844-686-5397 Who is At Fault in Pittsburgh Rideshare Accident Cases?
In any personal injury case, determining fault is the most important component. Think about it – it’s impossible to file a rideshare accident claim if you don’t know which party caused the accident. The at-fault driver can be determined quickly in regular rideshare crashes between two single drivers. However, rideshare accidents are more complicated.
Despite MIT research linking ridesharing services to a sharp rise in US traffic deaths, insurance coverage denials are still common. They will question everything about your case – was the accident caused by the Uber driver? Was a third party involved? Was the Lyft driver even on duty? And if so, how can you prove any of it?
In these cases, when you’re going up against powerful tech companies with aggressive insurance policies, it is in your best interest to have a Lyft accident lawyer by your side. Our ridesharing lawyer will investigate the accident scene, obtain the police report, and go through logs, driving history, eyewitness testimony, and more to determine who caused the car crash. Once we identify the negligent party, we will build a rock-solid Uber accident case to secure maximum compensation.
How Does Pennsylvania’s No-Fault Insurance System Affect Rideshare Accidents?
In Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance system, you typically file a rideshare accident claim with your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who the at-fault driver is. This applies to rideshare accidents in Pittsburgh, too. Your initial medical bills and lost income may be paid out by your insurance coverage, regardless of whether the Uber driver was at fault.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies Coverage
Sometimes your medical expenses and property damage are more significant than what your insurance policy covers, but that’s where the rideshare companies’ insurance kicks in. Uber and Lyft offer $1 million in third-party liability coverage, covering medical expenses and property damage if their driver was at fault in the accident. This includes:
- Bodily injury coverage: Up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for your medical bills and pain and suffering.
- Property damage: Up to $25,000 to repair or replace your car.
What If An Off-Duty Rideshare Driver Hit You, and You Need a Pittsburgh Ridesharing Lawyer?
Then, you may have to seek compensation from the rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy. An individual’s liability insurance, collision coverage, and property damage coverage will likely be much lower than Uber or Lyft’s.
In this case, an Uber accident lawyer will do two things. First, they will build a case against the negligent driver who caused your injuries. Secondly, your rideshare accident attorneys will determine whether Uber or Lyft can be held responsible for the accident. If so, we will pursue a claim against the rideshare companies.
What Requirements Must Rideshare Drivers Meet in Pennsylvania?
In Pittsburgh and across the US, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft require rideshare drivers to meet specific standards. Both Uber and Lyft require their drivers:
- Meet the minimum age requirement. For Lyft, drivers must be at least 21 years old; for Uber, drivers must meet or exceed the city’s minimum age requirement.
- Have a valid driver’s license.
- Have at least one year of licensed driving experience (Uber requires three years if the driver is younger than 23).
- Provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a valid inspection.
- Pass a safety screening and driving history background check.
In addition, vehicles used for Uber and Lyft must meet specific standards. Generally, they must be four-door vehicles in good condition, less than 10-15 years old.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents?
Although Uber and Lyft vet their drivers through background checks, rideshare drivers are still prone to the same types of accidents as anyone else on the road. The five most common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents are:
- Drowsy driving. Uber and other rideshare drivers often work multiple jobs, making them especially prone to driver fatigue. Drowsy driving has been shown to affect alertness and reaction time as much as driving while under the influence of alcohol.
- Distracted driving. As we know, ridesharing is based on smartphone apps. Drivers rely on smartphones for directions, tracking their time on duty, and arranging their next pick-up. This means they are even more likely to be on their phone while driving, which creates an environment ripe for driver distraction.
- Speeding: The pressure to pick up the next fare can tempt drivers to exceed speed limits, which increases the risk of collisions.
- Unfamiliar roads: Uber and Lyft drivers may have to navigate unfamiliar routes, increasing their chances of errors and accidents, especially at night or in bad weather.
- Vehicle maintenance issues: Faulty brakes, worn tires, or other vehicle damage can contribute to Uber and Lyft accidents if the vehicle owner does not address them.
What Types of Injuries Result From a Car Accident?
A car accident can cause a wide range of injuries that range from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. While no two car accidents are the same, some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash: A neck injury caused by sudden back-and-forth head movement.
- Traumatic Brain Injury: A violent blow to the head that affects how the brain functions.
- Soft tissue injuries: Muscles, ligaments, and tendons can suffer strains, sprains, and tears, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Broken bones: Fractures can occur anywhere in the body, from fingers and toes to ribs and collarbones, causing intense pain and requiring casts or surgery.
- Spinal cord injuries: These devastating injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, with a life-altering impact on mobility and independence.
What is the Statute of Limitations on Uber and Lyft Accident Claims in PA?
The statute of limitations, or the time limit to file a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania, is 2 years from the date of the accident. It’s important to know that even though two years seems like a long time, medical and property damage bills do not wait until you recover damages from the accident.
Accidents are always out of the blue. There is no way to plan for or predict when they will happen. That means most people are not financially prepared for their sudden expenses after a car accident.
The best way to stay out of debt following an Uber or Lyft accident is to file a car accident claim to recover damages for your losses. If you win your case, you will recover compensation to help offset all new costs associated with the car crash.
What Compensation Can You Recover After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
The compensation awarded to accident victims depends on the severity of the injuries and the extent of the damage. However, a Pittsburgh Uber accident claim may result in the following damages to the victim:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
What Should You Do Immediately After a Rideshare Accident in Pittsburgh?
The aftermath of an Uber or a Lyft accident can be chaotic. Thinking on your feet is challenging when you’re on a busy street and dealing with immediate medical concerns. The following steps will help keep you and the other injured victims safe.
- Call 911. Do not allow the other driver to stop you. The police will be able to facilitate medical care and begin an accident report, which is essential for your case.
- If your immediate medical needs are handled, start documenting the accident scene. This will include photos and video of all the damage, the street you’re on, license plate numbers, and eyewitness accounts. There is no such thing as too much information.
- Report the collision to Uber or Lyft right away. You can do this through the app.
- Go to the doctor. Some severe injuries do not present themselves right away. For example, a traumatic brain injury can be invisible but deadly.
- Call a Pittsburgh Lyft accident lawyer to talk about all your legal options. You should not speak with any insurance agent until you seek counsel from an experienced Lyft accident lawyer.
Partner with the Uber Car Accident Attorneys at Munley Law
Navigating an Uber or Lyft accident claim can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with powerful corporations, layered insurance policies, and serious injuries. At Munley Law, we bring nearly seven decades of experience and a proven track record of results to every case we handle. Since 1959, our family-run firm has recovered over $1 billion in compensation for injury victims, including numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements across Pennsylvania.
Our results speak for themselves. We have secured landmark recoveries, including $32.25 million in an aviation case, $26 million in a truck accident case, and $17.5 million in a fatal crash verdict, along with dozens of other seven- and eight-figure outcomes. These victories reflect our willingness to take on complex, high-stakes litigation – and win. We prepare every rideshare accident case for trial, which often leads to stronger settlements and better outcomes for clients.
Our attorneys are consistently recognized among the best in the nation, earning honors from the National Board of Trial Advocacy and Lawdragon. Several of our lawyers are also members of prestigious organizations such as the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and have helped shape laws that protect injury victims nationwide. When you choose Munley Law, you’re choosing a nationally respected firm with the experience, resources, and reputation to stand up to insurance companies – and secure the compensation you deserve.
How Much Do Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorneys Cost?
At Munley Law, our Pittsburgh car accident attorneys work on a contingency basis. That means you pay nothing upfront and will not have any fees unless we win your case.
Your Munley Law legal team will invest time, resources, and expertise into your case – from hiring accident reconstruction professionals to uncovering crucial evidence through independent investigations – and only collect a fee if we secure a favorable settlement or verdict.
This includes covering the costs of:
- Accident reconstruction professionals to meticulously analyze the car crash scene and determine fault.
- Medical consultants to evaluate your injuries and translate medical jargon into understandable terms.
- In-depth investigation to gather evidence, witness statements, and other crucial details.
Remember, you will have a free case evaluation with rideshare accident attorneys to start. During this meeting, our experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorneys will assess your case, answer your questions, and explain your options clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accident Claims in Pittsburgh
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly After an Accident?
In most cases, Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which can complicate direct lawsuits. However, their insurance policies may still apply depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. We investigate whether corporate liability or third-party negligence played a role. This allows us to pursue all available avenues for compensation.
What If I Were a Passenger During the Rideshare Accident?
Passengers are rarely at fault, which strengthens their claims. You may be eligible to file against multiple insurance policies, including the rideshare company’s coverage. Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We coordinate claims to maximize your recovery.
What If Multiple Drivers Were Involved in the Crash?
Multi-vehicle accidents are common in rideshare cases and can complicate liability. Each party’s insurance provider may attempt to shift blame. We analyze evidence such as police reports, app data, and witness statements to determine fault. This ensures all responsible parties are held accountable.
What Evidence Is Most Important in a Rideshare Accident Case?
Critical evidence includes police reports, medical records, photos of the scene, and rideshare app data. Driver logs and GPS tracking can also play a key role in proving liability. Witness statements further strengthen your case. We gather and preserve this evidence quickly before it fades.
Should I Talk to the Insurance Company After the Accident?
It’s best to consult a lawyer before speaking with insurers. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or use your statements against you. Even seemingly harmless comments can affect your case. We handle communications to protect your rights.
What If the Rideshare Driver Didn’t Have a Passenger at the Time?
Coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the app. If they were waiting for a ride request, limited coverage may apply. If they were offline, their personal insurance is typically responsible. We determine which policy applies based on app activity data.
Contact Munley Law’s Pittsburgh Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Don’t let financial concerns prevent you from seeking justice.
Contact Munley Law today and let us fight for financial compensation so you can move past your car accident.
Types of Pittsburgh Personal Injury Claims We Handle
There are many different types of personal injury cases. When choosing a Pittsburgh injury lawyer to represent you, it’s important to find someone who has handled cases like yours. Munley Law has successfully secured compensation for victims of the following types of personal injury cases:
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- Pittsburgh car accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh truck accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh pedestrian accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh workers’ compensation lawyer
- Pittsburgh bicycle accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh rideshare accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh Uber accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh Lyft accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh brain injury lawyer
- Pittsburgh catastrophic injury lawyer
- Pittsburgh nursing home abuse lawyer
- Pittsburgh premises liability lawyer
- Pittsburgh bus accident lawyer
- Pittsburgh slip and fall lawyer
- Pittsburgh construction accident lawyer
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James Christopher Munley
James Christopher Munley is a multi-award winning auto accident lawyer and advocate for auto accident plaintiffs. Chris has been named to Best Lawyers in America since 2012, and was also named a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer the following year in 2013. Alongside this, he was named to the Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Chris has helped in the recovery of millions in damages for auto accident victims, including notable cases such as a $17.5 million jury verdict for a teen death caused by a car accident, and a $6.9 Million Settlement when a garbage truck crashed into a car.
