The convenience of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft has transformed how we travel through Overland Park and Kansas City. Yet when your routine rideshare trip ends in a collision, the aftermath can be anything but convenient. Medical bills mount quickly, injuries may prevent you from working, and navigating the complex web of insurance policies between rideshare companies, their drivers, and other involved parties creates a frustrating maze of responsibility. This complexity often leaves injured passengers wondering who will ultimately pay for their damages.
At Hollis Law Firm, we fight for our clients’ rights when they’ve been injured in rideshare accidents throughout Kansas. Our attorney understands the unique challenges these cases present and the specific insurance coverage issues that arise when rideshare companies are involved. We may be able to help you navigate these complex claims and pursue fair compensation for your injuries, lost income, and other damages resulting from a rideshare accident.
Understanding Rideshare Accident Liability in Kansas
Rideshare accident cases differ significantly from typical car accident claims due to the multi-layered insurance coverage and liability issues. Both Uber and Lyft structure their insurance coverage based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
Understanding this coverage framework is essential:
- App off: When the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, only their personal auto insurance applies.
- App on, waiting for request: When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, rideshare companies typically provide limited liability coverage (usually around $50,000 per person for bodily injury).
- En route to pickup or during trip: Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, coverage typically increases to $1 million in liability coverage.
- Third-party liability: If another driver causes the accident, their insurance would be primarily responsible, with the rideshare company’s insurance potentially serving as secondary coverage.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Overland Park
Rideshare accidents often result from similar causes as other vehicle collisions, but certain factors are more prevalent in the rideshare context:
Driver Distraction
Rideshare drivers frequently interact with their smartphone apps while driving—accepting new rides, following GPS directions, or communicating with passengers. This divided attention significantly increases accident risk, especially on busy Overland Park roads like Metcalf Avenue or 135th Street.
Our legal team investigates digital records, including app logs and phone data, to establish driver distraction when appropriate.
Driver Fatigue
Many rideshare drivers work long hours, often after completing shifts at their primary jobs. Driver fatigue impairs reaction time and decision-making capabilities similar to alcohol intoxication. We examine driver logs and work histories to identify fatigue as a potential contributing factor.
Inadequate Driver Screening
Rideshare companies have been criticized for their driver vetting processes. While they’ve improved their background checks over time, some drivers with concerning driving histories still make it through the system. When appropriate, we investigate whether the rideshare company’s negligent hiring practices contributed to your accident.
Your Rights as a Rideshare Accident Victim
As a passenger injured in a rideshare accident, you have important legal rights that need protection. Understanding these rights is the first step toward securing fair compensation.
Insurance Coverage Access
You have the right to access applicable insurance coverage from all responsible parties. This may include the rideshare driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s commercial policy, another driver’s insurance, or potentially your own coverage.
We help cut through the confusion by identifying all available insurance policies and pursuing maximum coverage for your injuries.
Compensation for Damages
You have the right to seek compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and future medical needs
- Lost wages for time missed from work and potential future income loss
- Pain and suffering for physical discomfort and emotional distress
- Property damage for personal items damaged in the accident
We work with medical experts and economic specialists to fully quantify your damages, ensuring nothing is overlooked in your claim.
How We May Be Able to Help Your Rideshare Accident Case
Successfully navigating a rideshare accident claim requires specialized knowledge and strategic advocacy. Our approach is comprehensive and tailored to the unique aspects of rideshare cases.
Thorough Investigation
We conduct a detailed investigation to establish liability and document the full extent of your damages. This may include:
- Obtaining the rideshare driver’s app status at the time of the accident
- Securing witness statements and surveillance footage
- Analyzing police reports and accident scene evidence
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts when needed
- Reviewing the rideshare driver’s history and qualifications
By gathering compelling evidence, we build a strong foundation for your claim.
Strategic Negotiation with Multiple Insurers
Rideshare accident claims often involve negotiations with multiple insurance companies, each trying to minimize their liability. We handle all communications with these insurers, preventing them from using your statements against you or pressuring you into accepting inadequate settlements.
Our attorney leverages extensive negotiation experience and knowledge of insurance tactics to pursue a fair resolution that truly addresses your needs.
Contact an Overland Park Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
The aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. With complex insurance issues and potentially significant injuries, having knowledgeable legal representation can make a substantial difference in your recovery.
At Hollis Law Firm, we have helped clients recover over $100 million in settlements and judgments. Our lawyer provides personalized attention to each case, guiding clients through every step of the legal process while fighting for the compensation they need to move forward. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, call us at (800) 701-3672 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.
