Hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident? You’re not alone. Our Phoenix lawyers handle the stress so you can focus on healing.
Hire The Best Rideshare Accident Lawyers in Phoenix
After a serious Uber or Lyft crash, your world can feel like it’s spinning. You might be juggling medical appointments, missed workdays, and endless calls from insurance companies that seem more interested in protecting their bottom line than your recovery. You shouldn’t have to navigate that alone.
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., you can work with an experienced Phoenix rideshare accident lawyer who knows how to help injured passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers get the justice and compensation they deserve. Whether you were a rideshare passenger or someone hit by a negligent Uber or Lyft driver, our experienced legal team is here to guide you through every step.
Learn how our experienced Phoenix Rideshare Accident Lawyer can assist you by calling (575) 222-1000 or sending us an online message today.
We Want to Hear Your Story – and We Want to Help
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Phoenix
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in Phoenix, making it easier than ever to get around town. But with the convenience of these apps also comes an increased risk of accidents. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, over 120,000 crashes occurred statewide in 2023, with thousands happening in Maricopa County alone. Many of these involved vehicles being used for app-based services.
Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes are often legally complex. Multiple parties and insurance policies can be involved, including the rideshare driver’s personal insurer, the company’s commercial policy, and even third-party insurers. That’s why working with an experienced rideshare accident attorney is so important.
See what our clients have to say about our services:
Arizona Law and Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Uber and Lyft are classified as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) under Arizona law, which sets the minimum insurance requirements for rideshare drivers and companies. The amount of coverage that applies depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash.
Understanding these coverage levels can help you know where to turn after an accident.
When the Driver’s App Is Off
If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, their personal auto insurance applies. The rideshare company’s coverage does not.
When the Driver’s App Is on but Waiting for a Ride Request
If the driver is logged in but has not yet accepted a passenger, the rideshare company provides contingent liability coverage that includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury,
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and
- $25,000 for property damage.
Uber, Lyft, and any other TNCs must have this coverage under state law.
When the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or Has a Passenger
Once the ride has been accepted, Uber and Lyft must provide at least $1 million in third-party coverage. Additional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection and comprehensive and collision coverage (subject to a deductible), may also apply depending on the circumstances. If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, this higher-tier coverage is typically your main source of recovery.
Insurance coverage in rideshare cases can be confusing, but a knowledgeable attorney can determine which policy applies and how to file your claim effectively.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Phoenix
What you do in the minutes and days after a rideshare accident can greatly influence the outcome of your claim.
Following these steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911. Always report the accident and ask for medical assistance if needed.
- Document everything. Take photos of all vehicles, injuries, and the scene.
- Collect information. Get contact and insurance details from all drivers involved.
- Report the crash in the rideshare app. Uber and Lyft require an in-app accident report.
- Seek medical care. Even minor symptoms should be evaluated and documented.
- Contact a Phoenix rideshare accident lawyer. Before talking to any insurance company, get legal advice to protect your rights.
Taking these steps can help set you up with the evidence and documentation needed to build a strong case.
Why Hire a Phoenix Rideshare Accident Lawyer
After a rideshare accident, insurance companies may contact you quickly with a settlement offer that sounds tempting but is often far less than what you deserve. A lawyer can protect you from these tactics and build a claim that reflects the full extent of your losses.
A skilled attorney can:
- Identify all liable parties, including the rideshare driver, company, or third parties;
- Interpret overlapping insurance policies and determine applicable coverage;
- Calculate full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering; and
- Handle all negotiations and, if needed, take your case to trial.
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., our legal team has the skill, persistence, and resources to hold rideshare companies accountable. We focus on your recovery while we handle the legal battle.
Potential Compensation After a Rideshare Accident
Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to a range of damages under Arizona law.
Depending on the details of your case, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation,
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress,
- Property damage, and
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members).
Arizona follows a comparative negligence system, which means that even if you were partially responsible for the crash, you may still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
A Phoenix rideshare accident lawyer can help you document your losses and push for the maximum recovery allowed under the law.
What to Do If Your Rideshare Driver Caused the Crash
Being injured as a passenger can be particularly stressful because you had no control over the situation. Even though Uber and Lyft maintain large insurance policies, you still need to prove that the rideshare driver’s negligence caused your injuries.
To protect your claim:
- Request a copy of the police report;
- Save screenshots of your ride details, including the driver’s name and trip time;
- Keep medical records and receipts for related expenses; and
- Contact a Phoenix Uber accident attorney as soon as possible.
These steps can help your attorney gather evidence and negotiate effectively with Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance carriers. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of securing full compensation.
Speak to a Skilled Rideshare Accident Attorney
Our legal team is here to help you with your case.
What If You Were Hit by a Rideshare Driver?
If a rideshare driver struck your car or injured you as a pedestrian, your claim will depend on whether they were actively working for Uber or Lyft:
- If the driver was not using the app, their personal insurance applies;
- If the driver was logged into the app but not carrying a passenger, the contingent policy may cover part of your damages; and
- If the driver was transporting or en route to pick up a passenger, the $1 million commercial policy applies.
Each of these situations involves different insurance carriers and procedures. A Phoenix, Arizona Uber accident lawyer or Phoenix Lyft accident lawyer can help determine which policy applies and work to protect your rights throughout the process.
How Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C. Can Help
After a rideshare accident, you deserve an advocate who understands both the law and the tactics used by large corporations and insurers.
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., we offer:
- Comprehensive case investigations using police reports, app data, and witness statements;
- Direct negotiation with insurers to demand fair settlements;
- Trial-ready preparation in the event your case requires litigation; and
- Personalized support and consistent communication throughout your case.
Whether you need a Lyft accident attorney in Phoenix or an experienced Uber injury attorney, our firm is prepared to fight for your recovery and your future.
FAQs About Phoenix Rideshare Accidents
How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in Arizona?
According to the statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Can I Sue Uber or Lyft Directly for My Injuries?
Because rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors, it’s difficult to sue Uber or Lyft directly. However, you can typically recover compensation through their commercial insurance policies.
What If the Rideshare Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?
Uber and Lyft carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can help cover your losses if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
Arizona’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages even if you share some fault, though your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Rideshare Accident Attorney?
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., we handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we win your case.
Speak with a Team of Trusted Local Advocates Today
After a rideshare accident, you should be focused on your recovery, not fighting with insurance companies. Let us handle the legal details so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., we are dedicated to helping injured victims in Phoenix get the compensation they need and deserve. Our rideshare accident attorneys know how to take on Uber, Lyft, and their insurers to secure real results for our clients.
Call (575) 222-1000 or contact us online today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Phoenix rideshare accident lawyer who will stand by your side every step of the way.
Resources: