Sioux Falls Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys

Advocating for the Wrongfully Injured in South Dakota & Iowa

While ridesharing apps are a popular and convenient way to travel, the rise of Uber and Lyft has also led to an uptick in car accidents, including a 3% increase in fatal collisions. At King Law Firm, we understand the life-altering impacts of rideshare accidents. Dealing with evasive insurance companies and navigating the complexities of rideshare liability can add another layer of stress during an already difficult time, making it crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side.

From affording mounting medical bills to recouping lost wages, our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers are committed to recovering the compensation you need to get back on your feet and focus on healing. Since 1995, our attorneys have aggressively pursued justice for rideshare accident victims in Sioux Falls. With millions recovered and over 35 years of experience representing clients across South Dakota and Iowa, our proven track record of success speaks for itself. 

Don’t leave your financial future to chance after an Uber or Lyft accident—choose a firm with a success rate of over 95% to represent your best interests. 

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft in Sioux Falls, choose a firm with decades of experience to pursue justice. Contact us online to discuss your case. 

Common Injuries in Uber & Lyft Accidents

Uber and Lyft accidents can result in serious injuries to passengers and other drivers on the road. Common injuries in rideshare collisions include: 

• Brain injuries. Head and brain injuries are common in rideshare accidents due to the high force involved in a collision. 
• Spinal cord injuries. The sudden impact of a collision can cause spinal cord damage, increasing the risk of paralysis and other long-term disabilities. 
• Burn injuries. Victims can suffer severe burns during a collision due to exposure to vehicle fires or contact with hot engine parts. 
• Internal injuries. Passengers may suffer hemorrhaging, organ damage, and other internal injuries that necessitate urgent medical attention. 
• Broken bones and fractures. Rideshare accidents frequently lead to broken bones and fractures, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
• Whiplash and neck injuries. The rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck and head can lead to whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.

Are Uber & Lyft Required to Carry Insurance?

While Uber and Lyft are required to carry up to $1 million in liability insurance, this only applies when the rideshare employee is actively using the app to pick up or drop off passengers. If a driver was not logged into the app at the time of the accident, their personal auto insurance is typically the primary source of coverage. 

However, this doesn’t mean that the rideshare company is automatically liable for collisions that occur while employees are on the clock. Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, which significantly impacts liability by shielding rideshare companies from direct responsibility. 

Determining Insurance Coverage for an Uber or Lyft Accident

The type of insurance coverage for an Uber or Lyft accident depends on the specific driving period. 

These include: 

• Period 0. The rideshare app is off and the driver is using their vehicle for personal reasons.
• Period 1. The rideshare app is on and the driver is awaiting a request. 
• Period 2. The driver has accepted a request and is en route to the passenger. 
• Period 3. The driver is actively transporting a passenger in their vehicle.

At King Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of the complex insurance policies involved in Uber and Lyft accidents to advocate for the fair settlement you deserve.

Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?

Depending on the unique circumstances of the accident, various parties may be responsible for damages in an Uber or Lyft accident lawsuit. Some potentially liable parties include: 

• Rideshare employees. The Uber or Lyft driver may be liable if they were not actively using the app or acted negligently, such as violating traffic laws. 
• Rideshare companies. The rideshare company may be liable if the accident occurred while the Uber or Lyft driver was actively using the app. 
• Other motorists. If another motorist contributed to the accident by acting negligently, they may be responsible for damages.
• Vehicle manufacturers. If a faulty part or mechanical issue contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the vehicle may be liable. 

Proving liability in rideshare accident lawsuits is notoriously complex, making it critical to have a knowledgeable injury lawyer on your side. Our attorneys can conduct a thorough investigation to identify negligent parties and gather evidence to establish liability. 

What Damages Are Recoverable in an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?

Depending on the case, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation after a rideshare accident. There are two primary types: economic damages for direct financial losses (such as medical bills, lost income, and property damage) and non-economic damages for indirect losses (such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life).

In rare cases involving especially egregious misconduct, the court may also award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. Our attorneys can calculate the full scope of damages and assess every avenue for financial recovery to maximize the amount of recoverable compensation available to you. 

Do I Need a Rideshare Accident Lawyer? 

The last thing you need after a serious injury is additional stress. This is where working with a trusted attorney can make all the difference. Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:  

• Navigating the legal process. Uber and Lyft accidents typically involve multiple insurance policies. Our lawyers are well-versed in these legal intricacies to guide you through the claims process with care and efficiency. 
• Determining liability. Rideshare accident lawsuits often include multiple parties, conflicting interests, and complex employment classifications. Our firm can work diligently to gather evidence and hold the negligent party accountable. 
• Negotiating with insurers. Rideshare companies often have extensive legal teams working to reduce payouts. Our skilled negotiators can fight for maximum compensation while protecting your rights against evasive insurance companies. 
• Trial readiness. While many claims are settled out of court, litigation may be necessary to achieve a favorable outcome. We prepare every case for trial and never shy away from a fight if needed to recover the full settlement you deserve.

If you were wrongfully injured in a rideshare accident, our attorneys can fight for fair compensation. Call (605) 250-3209 to schedule a free consultation.