Everett, MA Uber + Lyft Accident Lawyer
Many people are injured each year as the result of Uber and Lyft accidents. These accidents can cause serious harm to ridesharing passengers as well as other motorists. Thankfully, victims may pursue financial compensation for their injuries.
However, the path to payment after an Uber or Lyft accident may be complicated. The team at our law firm can investigate your crash and determine the appropriate route to compensation. Furthermore, we can ensure your rights and interests are protected while fighting for the full range of damages available to you.
Seek support and guidance from our experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorneys by calling the Law Office of John J. Sheehan at (617) 925-6407.
Suing Uber or Lyft After a Crash in Everett, MA
You will likely be unable to sue Uber or Lyft for damages sustained in an accident caused by one of their drivers. Both companies consider their drivers to be independent contractors, not employees. Therefore, these ridesharing companies typically cannot be held responsible for their drivers’ negligence.
Only in extremely rare scenarios can Uber or Lyft be sued. As an example, if Uber knowingly hired a driver with a dangerous driving history, then the company may be accountable an accident that driver causes.
Still, both companies carry insurance policies to cover damages caused by their drivers. Our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help pursue payment under one of these policies in your case.
Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents in Everett, MA
Uber and Lyft accidents can stem from several different causes. The following are common sources of such accidents in Everett, MA:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving involves a driver diverting their attention from the road to focus on other activities, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting controls. This form of negligence can lead to Uber or Lyft accidents as drivers may fail to notice pedestrians, traffic signals, or changing road conditions. For instance, a driver engrossed in texting might not see a red light ahead, causing a collision. Distracted driving impairs a driver’s ability to react promptly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Speeding
Speeding occurs when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit or drives too fast for the current road conditions. Speeding can result in Uber or Lyft accidents by reducing a driver’s control over their vehicle and extending their braking distance. For example, a driver traveling at an excessive speed might be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision with a slowing vehicle ahead. Speeding increases the force of impact, contributing to the severity of accidents.
Running Red Lights
Running red lights involves a driver disregarding a traffic signal and proceeding through an intersection when the light is red. This negligent behavior can lead to Uber or Lyft accidents if the driver’s failure to stop results in a collision with other vehicles or pedestrians legally crossing the intersection. For instance, a driver running a red light might crash into the side of another vehicle that had the right of way. Running red lights disregards traffic laws and poses a significant risk to road safety.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Poor vehicle maintenance refers to neglecting regular upkeep and repairs, such as brake maintenance, tire checks, and engine servicing. Uber or Lyft accidents can occur due to poor vehicle maintenance if critical systems fail, such as brakes or steering, leading to loss of control. A poorly maintained vehicle might experience brake failure, causing the driver to be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. Neglecting maintenance compromises the vehicle’s reliability and safety on the road.
Improper Left Turns
Improper left turns involve making a left turn without yielding to oncoming traffic or when it is not safe to do so. This form of negligence can result in Uber or Lyft accidents if the driver misjudges the timing of their turn or fails to yield, causing collisions with vehicles coming from the opposite direction. For instance, a driver attempting a left turn might collide with an oncoming car due to a failure to yield. Improper left turns disrupt the flow of traffic and lead to hazardous situations.
Illegal Lane Changes
Illegal lane changes occur when a driver switches lanes without signaling or without ensuring that it is safe to do so. This negligence can lead to Uber or Lyft accidents if the driver’s abrupt lane change causes other vehicles to brake suddenly or collide. For example, a driver changing lanes without checking their blind spot might sideswipe another vehicle. Illegal lane changes create confusion and increase the risk of collisions.
Tailgating
Tailgating involves following the vehicle in front too closely, leaving insufficient space to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. In Uber or Lyft accidents, tailgating can lead to collisions if the driver fails to brake in time to avoid rear-ending the vehicle ahead. For instance, a driver tailgating another vehicle might be unable to stop in time when the lead vehicle suddenly brakes. Tailgating reduces the driver’s reaction time and creates a high-risk situation.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing their judgment, coordination, and reaction time. This form of negligence can result in Uber or Lyft accidents if the intoxicated driver makes poor decisions, weaves between lanes, or fails to obey traffic signals. For example, a drunk driver might run a red light and collide with another vehicle. Drunk driving significantly impairs a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle, putting themselves and others at serious risk.
Fatigue and Drowsy Driving
Fatigue and drowsy driving involve a driver operating a vehicle while excessively tired or sleep-deprived. This form of negligence can lead to Uber or Lyft accidents as drowsy drivers may have reduced alertness, slower reaction times, and impaired decision-making skills. For instance, a fatigued driver might drift into another lane or fail to notice a changing traffic signal, resulting in a collision. Operating a vehicle while fatigued increases the risk of accidents and endangers the safety of passengers and other road users.
Contact Our Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys for Guidance with Your Case in Everett, MA
Get assistance from our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers by calling the Law Office of John J. Sheehan today at (617) 925-6407.
