Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient, affordable transportation in Cleveland and throughout Ohio. When an accident involving a rideshare vehicle occurs, dealing with the legal and insurance complexities can be overwhelming. At The Henry Law Firm, we help injured passengers, rideshare drivers, and third parties seek the compensation they need after a rideshare crash.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, time is of the essence. Call us today to speak with our Cleveland car accident lawyer about your legal options.
The Legal Framework for Rideshare Accidents in Cleveland
Unlike traditional car crashes, rideshare accidents involve multiple insurance policies and parties. Determining liability and which insurance company is responsible for your damages depends on several factors, including whether the driver was:
- Logged into the rideshare app but had not accepted a ride
- En route to pick up a passenger
- Transporting a passenger at the time of the crash
Each stage activates different levels of coverage under Uber and Lyft’s commercial policies, which can provide up to $1 million in liability insurance.
Ohio Law and Rideshare Companies
Under Ohio Revised Code §4504.01 and subsequent regulations, rideshare companies (technically called “transportation network companies” or TNCs) must maintain minimum levels of insurance coverage when a driver is actively working. However, pursuing compensation from these policies requires aggressive legal advocacy from a dedicated personal injury attorney in Cleveland.
Who Can File a Rideshare Accident Claim in Cleveland?
Our Cleveland Uber accident attorney represents all potential victims in Uber and Lyft crashes, including:
- Rideshare passengers injured during a trip
- Drivers of other vehicles hit by a rideshare car
- Pedestrians or bicyclists struck by a rideshare driver
- Uber/Lyft drivers injured by another negligent motorist
Determining Liability in a Cleveland Rideshare Crash
Negligent Rideshare Driver
If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident due to speeding, distracted driving, or other reckless behavior, they may be personally liable, but their TNC insurance may provide primary coverage depending on the driver’s app status.
Third-Party Driver
If another driver caused the crash, we can pursue a claim against that motorist’s insurance. If they are uninsured or underinsured, we may pursue compensation through Uber or Lyft’s policies, or your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Rideshare Company Liability
Although rideshare companies in Cleveland claim their drivers are independent contractors, in exceptional cases we may argue the company was negligent in hiring, retaining, or supervising the driver, particularly if the driver had a history of accidents or criminal conduct.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Cleveland Rideshare Accident?
Our Lyft accident lawyer Cleveland fights to recover full and fair compensation for all damages, which may include:
- Medical bills (emergency care, surgeries, rehab, etc.)
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
In wrongful death cases, eligible family members may also seek compensation for funeral costs, lost companionship, and more under Ohio’s wrongful death statute.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Cleveland
1. Call 911 and Seek Medical Help
Always prioritize your safety. Get emergency medical care, even if you think your injuries are minor.
2. Document the Scene
If you’re able, collect evidence:
- Take photos of vehicle damage and injuries
- Get contact info for all drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Take screenshots of the rideshare trip details
3. Avoid Making Statements to Insurers
Insurance companies may use your statements to minimize your claim. Don’t provide recorded statements without legal advice.
4. Contact Our Cleveland Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Early legal intervention can protect your claim, preserve evidence, and help you avoid mistakes that might harm your case.
How We Investigate and Prove Rideshare Accident Claims
Our experienced rideshare injury lawyer in Cleveland will:
- Analyze the rideshare app data to confirm driver status
- Secure crash reports, surveillance footage, and black box data
- Interview witnesses and retain accident reconstruction experts
- Identify all liable parties and insurance coverages
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurers
We don’t back down when rideshare companies and insurers try to delay or deny valid claims.
Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Accidents in Ohio
In most cases, Ohio law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim (Ohio Revised Code §2305.10). Missing this deadline may permanently bar your right to recovery. There may be exceptions or tolling provisions based on minor victims, fraudulent concealment, or delayed discovery of injuries.
FAQs About Cleveland Rideshare Accident Claims
What if the rideshare driver wasn’t logged into the app?
If the driver was offline, their personal auto insurance policy would apply. If that coverage is inadequate, we may explore other sources of compensation.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
In limited cases, yes. If the company failed to perform background checks or ignored safety violations, they may bear direct liability.
What if I was partly at fault?
Ohio follows a modified comparative fault rule (Ohio Rev. Code §2311.33). You can still recover compensation if you were less than 51% at fault, but your award will be reduced proportionally.
Why Choose Our Cleveland Rideshare Accident Lawyer?
At The Henry Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges of rideshare accident litigation. Attorney Eric Henry brings trial-tested experience and a relentless pursuit of justice to every case.
Whether you were a rideshare passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, we will:
- Investigate the facts aggressively
- Identify all responsible parties
- Maximize your claim through skilled negotiation and, if needed, litigation
- Keep you informed and empowered throughout the process
We don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. Every case gets the personalized attention it deserves.
Our Rideshare Injury Lawyer Cleveland Will Fight for Your Financial Recovery
At The Henry Law Firm, our Cleveland rideshare accident attorney Eric Henry has recovered millions of dollars for clients through verdicts and settlements. His legal career spans both plaintiff and defendant representation, giving him a unique advantage when negotiating with insurance companies and corporations.
Eric’s innovation, strategic thinking, and trial skills set him apart. He became a lawyer to help people who have been injured due to the negligence of others, and he remains dedicated to leveling the playing field for victims in Cleveland, OH. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 440-291-0937 or contact us online.
