Strong Des Moines Lawyer Advocacy When Your Rideshare Ends In An Accident
When you are sidelined by a rideshare accident, your first concerns are usually practical. How do I pay for the hospital visit? How do I cover lost wages? Who is actually responsible for the bills? Dealing with an Uber or Lyft crash adds a layer of rigid rules that most people are not ready for.
I have spent over 20 years as an attorney in Des Moines, Iowa, helping people get back on their feet. Most of my clients are not looking for legal battles. They just need their medical bills paid and their lives back.
If you were injured as a passenger or hit by a distracted rideshare driver, you need a lawyer who gives you a straight answer instead of legalese. I provide direct representation to make sure big insurance companies do not ignore your needs. Iowa law requires you to file a lawsuit within two years of the accident date. The sooner we start, the better we can preserve evidence.
The Dangers Of Distracted Rideshare Driving
Rideshare vehicles have an increased chance of accidents because the job itself requires distraction. To make a living, drivers are often:
- Checking their mobile devices for new fares or high-traffic surges
- Following GPS through unfamiliar neighborhoods or narrow side streets
- Speeding to drop off one rider so they can pick up the next to keep their ratings up
When a driver’s attention is on an app instead of the road, they can strike other vehicles, pedestrians or bicyclists. I will investigate whether the driver was on the clock at the time of the impact.
The Reality Of Rideshare Insurance Claims
Liability in these cases depends on the driver’s status. If the driver is off-duty, it is treated like a normal car accident. However, if they are actively working or carrying a passenger, different insurance tiers apply.
I represent people in the following situations:
- Rideshare passengers: Your driver was reckless or another car hit your Uber.
- Other drivers: A distracted Lyft driver struck your vehicle.
- Pedestrians and cyclists: A rideshare driver hit you while crossing a Des Moines street.
No matter which category you fall into, my job is to cut through the confusion and find out which insurance policy is actually responsible for your damages.
Rideshare Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Filing a claim against giants like Uber or Lyft can be challenging. Here are answers to the questions my clients ask most often to help guide you through the process.
Can you sue Lyft or Uber if you get in an accident?
Because drivers are independent contractors, you generally cannot sue the company directly for a driver’s mistake. However, you can file a claim against the corporate insurance policy. Depending on the driver’s status (with a passenger or en route to a pickup, waiting for a request, or offline), these policies can provide up to $1 million in coverage for your injuries.
What steps should I take after a rideshare accident?
First, call 911 to get an official police report. If you are a passenger, screenshot your ride details in the app immediately. Take photos of the scene and seek a medical exam, even if you feel fine. Finally, contact an accident lawyer before giving any statements to the insurance company.
Do you have to be injured to file a claim?
To file a personal injury claim, you must have suffered physical or psychological harm. If you only have property damage, you can still pursue a claim for repairs. Keep in mind that many injuries, like whiplash or concussions, do not show symptoms for days, so seeing a doctor early is critical.
Put A Des Moines Trial Attorney In Your Corner
You do not have to fight a rideshare company alone. As a solo practitioner, I handle your case personally. I will not back down from a trial if the insurance company refuses to be fair.
If you were injured in a crash in Des Moines or anywhere in Iowa, call me at Norris Injury Law Group at 515-297-7482 or email me for a free consultation. Get an upfront injury attorney who is ready to work.