Deming Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers

The rise of rideshare services has transformed transportation in Deming and across New Mexico. Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives to traditional taxis and public transportation, but with increased rideshare vehicles on the road comes increased potential for accidents involving these services. Following a rideshare accident, individuals may find themselves confused about their legal rights and options. For instance, Uber and Lyft have multi-layered insurance policies that can create additional hurdles for those seeking compensation. 

At Flores Mendez Law, our Deming Uber and Lyft accident lawyers have dedicated substantial time to studying the evolving landscape of rideshare accident law. We provide representation tailored to the distinct aspects of these cases, helping clients pursue appropriate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. So, what makes these accidents so challenging from a legal perspective?

How Are Rideshare Accidents Different from Regular Car Accidents?

When you are involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft vehicle, multiple insurance policies may come into play. The status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident significantly impacts which coverage applies. 

• If the driver was offline, their personal auto insurance would typically cover damages according to its policy limits.
• If they were logged into the app but waiting for a ride request, rideshare companies provide limited liability coverage. Uber and Lyft typically provide contingent liability coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injuries, plus limited property damage coverage.
• When a driver is en route to pick up passengers or during trips, Uber and Lyft generally maintain $1 million liability policies.

Our Deming Uber and Lyft accident lawyers analyze exactly when these accidents occur in relation to the driver’s app status to determine which insurance applies. 

Additionally, rideshare companies often attempt to distance themselves from liability by classifying drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification can affect how responsibility is assigned following accidents. Our legal team stays current on the latest precedents regarding rideshare company liability, giving our clients an advantage when pursuing fair compensation.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Rideshare Accident?

The actions you take immediately following a rideshare accident can significantly impact your ability to recover damages later. First, seek medical attention for any injuries, even those that appear minor, as some injuries manifest symptoms days after the incident. Document the accident scene by taking photographs of vehicle positions, damage, license plates, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. Collect contact information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses.

We also recommend reporting the accident through the Uber or Lyft app and to local law enforcement; the official accident report will serve as valuable documentation for your case. Save screenshots of your rideshare receipt showing the driver’s information and trip details, and avoid discussing fault or making statements to insurance representatives before consulting with a lawyer. We can guide you through these critical post-accident steps to protect your interests and strengthen potential claims.

Who Is Liable for My Injuries in a Rideshare Accident?

Potentially responsible parties in these crashes include Uber or Lyft drivers, other motorists involved in the collision, the rideshare company itself, and even vehicle manufacturers if defective parts contributed to the accident. New Mexico follows a comparative negligence system, meaning multiple parties can share fault, and compensation may be adjusted according to each party’s percentage of responsibility.

Our Deming Uber and Lyft accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify all potentially liable parties. This process may involve analyzing the driver 

logs, reviewing maintenance records, examining the accident scene, interviewing witnesses, and consulting accident reconstruction specialists. We look beyond the obvious to establish a comprehensive liability picture, working to maximize our clients’ compensation opportunities from all available sources.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Rideshare Accident?

Individuals injured in Uber or Lyft accidents may qualify for various forms of compensation:

• Medical expenses constitute a primary component, covering emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care needs. 
• Lost income compensation addresses wages lost during recovery and potential future earning capacity reductions. 
• Property damage compensation covers vehicle repairs or replacement and personal belongings damaged in the collision.
• Non-economic damages account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life resulting from the accident.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Rideshare Accident?

New Mexico law establishes specific timeframes for filing personal injury claims, including those stemming from rideshare accidents. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injuries. However, this statute of limitations can vary depending on specific circumstances, such as cases involving government vehicles or wrongful death claims.

These legal deadlines underscore the importance of consulting with our Deming Uber and Lyft accident lawyers promptly after an incident. Waiting too long not only risks exceeding the filing deadline but also complicates evidence collection as memories fade, witnesses become difficult to locate, and physical evidence disappears. We can help you adhere to all applicable timelines while building the strongest possible case on your behalf.

What if I Was a Pedestrian Hit by an Uber or Lyft Vehicle?

Pedestrians often sustain more serious injuries than vehicle occupants in these collisions, potentially requiring extensive medical treatment and longer recovery periods. Documentation is particularly important in these cases, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident scene photographs. The same tiered insurance structure applies based on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the accident. 

Deming Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Flores Mendez Law Provide Legal Guidance When Rideshares Take Unexpected Turns

The Deming Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law can advocate tirelessly for your full and fair compensation after a rideshare crash. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you move forward. For more information, call 915-308-9999 or complete our online form. With office locations in El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico, we gladly serve clients in the surrounding areas.