What to Do When Your Nashville Uber or Lyft Trip Takes an Unexpected Turn
It's a typical Friday night in Nashville. You've enjoyed an evening of live music on Broadway and decide to use a rideshare app for a safe ride home. As your Uber weaves through the busy downtown streets, another driver runs a red light, colliding with your vehicle. Suddenly, your plans for a peaceful night's sleep change to an emergency room visit.
Rideshare accidents in Nashville are more common than you might think. Whether you're a passenger in an Uber, a pedestrian struck by a Lyft, or a driver whose car was hit by a rideshare vehicle, the situation can feel overwhelming. Our Tennessee auto accident lawyers understand the unique challenges these car accidents present and are here to guide you through the legal process.
How Do Tennesse Rideshare Liability Claims Work?
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex. Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:
- Uber or Lyft driver. If the rideshare driver's negligence caused the accident, they may be held liable.
- Another motorist. If another driver's actions led to the crash, they could be responsible for damages.
- The rideshare company. In some cases, Uber or Lyft may share liability, particularly if they were negligent in driver screening or vehicle maintenance.
- Vehicle manufacturers or maintenance companies. If a defective car part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or maintenance company might be held accountable.
Insurance Coverage in Nashville Rideshare Accidents
Tennessee law requires rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to provide specific insurance coverage for their drivers. This coverage varies depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident:
- App off. When the driver isn't using the app, their personal auto insurance applies. They are required to carry $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per individual, $100,000 bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage.
- App on, waiting for a ride request. Until the driver accepts a prearranged ride, their personal car insurance policy still applies.
- App on, accepted a ride request. The rideshare company may provide limited liability coverage in some cases.
- Actively working. If an accident happens during a prearranged rideshare trip, higher liability limits and additional coverage of up to $1 million apply.
These coverage phases dictate the available compensation after an auto accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver in Nashville.
Common Injuries in Nashville Uber and Lyft Accidents
Rideshare accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor to severe. Some common injuries include:
- Whiplash. Often occurring in rear-end collisions, whiplash can cause neck pain and stiffness that may last for weeks or months.
- Broken bones. The impact of a crash can lead to fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs.
- Head injuries. Traumatic brain injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe trauma, can have long-lasting effects on your health and daily life.
- Soft tissue injuries. Sprains, strains, and bruising are common in car accidents and can cause significant pain and limited mobility.
- Emotional trauma. The psychological impact of an accident shouldn't be underestimated. Many victims experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD following a crash.
Recoverable Damages in Nashville Rideshare Accidents
If you've been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages:
- Economic damages. These cover tangible losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages. These compensate for intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages. In cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.
How a Nashville Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help
Knowing what to do with a rideshare accident claim can be challenging. A skilled attorney from GriffithLaw can provide the legal help you need to secure your future. We can:
- Investigate the accident. We'll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident to determine liability.
- Handle insurance negotiations. We'll communicate with all involved insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Calculate damages. Our team will assess all your losses to ensure you seek appropriate compensation.
- Represent you in court. If a fair settlement can't be reached, we're prepared to take your case to trial.
If you've been involved in a Nashville Lyft or Uber accident, the experienced team at GriffithLaw is ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the full compensation you deserve. Our track record of successful outcomes speaks for itself. We understand the unique aspects of rideshare accident claims and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
