Can You File a Lawsuit Against Lyft or Uber After an Accident in North Carolina?

Getting into an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft can leave you with more questions than answers. Who’s responsible for your medical bills? Can you take legal action against the rideshare company? Many people assume that filing a claim is as straightforward as a regular car accident, but rideshare accidents have layers of complexity that require careful attention. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in North Carolina, understanding your rights is crucial.

Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can feel overwhelming, especially when multiple parties are involved. The rideshare driver, the company, and other motorists all play a role in the aftermath, and sorting through liability can be challenging. While Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers, knowing when and how that coverage applies is another story. A skilled legal advocate can help clarify these issues and determine the best course of action for your claim.

If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident, working with an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, based in Charlotte, has handled numerous rideshare-related cases, helping victims understand their options and pursue fair compensation. Speaking with a local legal team can help you get clear, practical advice on whether you can file a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft for your injuries.

TLDR Summary:

• If you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in North Carolina, you may have the right to seek compensation, but rideshare cases involve complex insurance policies and liability issues.
• Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage depending on what stage of the ride the driver was in, but determining which policy applies requires legal knowledge.
• After an accident, seek medical attention, document the scene, report the crash to the rideshare company, and consult a lawyer to protect your rights.
• A Charlotte rideshare accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Rideshare accidents are different from regular car crashes due to the multiple insurance policies and legal loopholes involved. Whether you were a passenger, driver, or another motorist affected by an Uber or Lyft accident, knowing how to proceed is essential. Seeking medical attention, collecting evidence, and consulting with a trusted legal team like Rosensteel Fleishman can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

Can You Sue Uber or Lyft After an Accident in North Carolina?

Many people assume that Uber and Lyft operate like taxi companies, but rideshare services work differently when it comes to legal liability. In a taxi accident, the company typically holds responsibility for its drivers. However, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, which can complicate personal injury claims.

While this setup allows rideshare companies to limit direct liability, it doesn’t mean that you’re out of options. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be able to pursue a claim against multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, their personal insurance provider, or Uber and Lyft’s corporate insurance policies.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of insurance coverage based on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident. Their policies fall into three categories:

• Period 1: The driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a ride request. Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage in this phase, but the driver’s personal insurance is often the primary source of coverage.
• Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride and is on their way to pick up a passenger. At this stage, Uber and Lyft’s $1 million liability coverage kicks in.
• Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle. Full insurance coverage applies until the ride is completed.

If you were injured as a rideshare passenger or hit by an Uber or Lyft driver, your ability to file a lawsuit depends on which phase of the ride the driver was in. Navigating these distinctions can be complicated, making legal guidance essential.

Determining Liability in a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare accident cases require careful investigation to determine who is legally responsible for the damages. Liability may rest on one or multiple parties, depending on the circumstances of the crash.

When the Rideshare Driver is at Fault

If an Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident, their insurance policy—along with Uber or Lyft’s corporate coverage—may come into play. However, determining which policy applies depends on whether the driver was actively working when the accident occurred. If they were using their vehicle for personal reasons at the time, their personal insurance policy would be the primary source of compensation.

When Another Driver is at Fault

If another motorist caused the accident while you were riding in an Uber or Lyft, that driver’s insurance is responsible for covering your damages. In some cases, Uber and Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may help if the at-fault driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in North Carolina

Being involved in an accident is stressful, but when it happens while you're using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, it can be even more confusing. Many people are unsure of what steps to take, who to call, or how to protect their rights. Taking the right actions after a rideshare accident can make a big difference in your ability to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Prioritizing Safety and Seeking Medical Attention

Your health should always come first. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t feel pain right away, some injuries—such as whiplash or internal trauma—can take hours or even days to become noticeable. Getting checked by a doctor as soon as possible not only protects your health but also provides important medical documentation that can support your case later on.

If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic while you wait for emergency responders. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 and follow the instructions given by emergency personnel.

Gathering Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able, collecting information at the accident scene can be incredibly useful for your claim. Here’s what to document:

• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
• Get the rideshare driver’s information, including their name, license plate number, and insurance details. You should also take a screenshot of your ride details within the Uber or Lyft app, as this can confirm the status of your trip at the time of the accident.
• Collect contact information from any witnesses. Their statements may be valuable if there’s a dispute over what happened.
• Request a copy of the police report or at least take note of the responding officer’s name and badge number. A police report can serve as critical evidence when dealing with insurance companies.

Reporting the Accident to Uber or Lyft

Uber and Lyft require passengers and drivers to report accidents through their apps. While you should notify the rideshare company, be mindful of what you say. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. Rideshare companies will conduct their own investigations, and anything you say in the report could be used later when evaluating your claim.

Speaking with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

After a rideshare accident, dealing with insurance companies can quickly become overwhelming. You may be contacted by Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider, as well as the personal insurance companies of the drivers involved. These companies often look for ways to minimize their payouts, which is why having a legal advocate on your side can be essential.

A rideshare accident lawyer can review your case, explain your options, and help ensure that you receive fair compensation. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance adjusters or filing a lawsuit if necessary, having an personal injury attorney can relieve the stress of handling legal matters on your own.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

In North Carolina, there are strict time limits—known as the statute of limitations—for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to seek compensation. Additionally, evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories may fade over time. Acting quickly by seeking medical treatment, documenting the accident, and consulting a lawyer can strengthen your case and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t wait to get legal advice. Speaking with a Charlotte-based rideshare accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and determine the best path forward. Whether you were a passenger, a driver, or another motorist affected by a rideshare collision, getting the right support can make all the difference in your recovery.

How a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help

Handling a rideshare accident claim on your own can be stressful, especially when dealing with multiple insurance companies and legal complexities. A rideshare accident lawyer can assess your situation, identify all possible sources of compensation, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side ensures that your claim is handled correctly from the start. From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements, a legal team can take the burden off your shoulders while you focus on recovery.

Why Choose Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Rideshare Accident Case?

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Charlotte, choosing the right legal team can make all the difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers have years of experience handling rideshare-related claims, helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Local Knowledge and Personalized Representation

Working with a Charlotte-based law firm means getting direct access to attorneys who understand North Carolina’s laws and local court systems. Unlike national firms that handle cases remotely, Rosensteel Fleishman provides personalized attention, ensuring that your case gets the time and dedication it deserves.

Proven Track Record in Personal Injury Law

Corey Rosensteel and Matthew Fleishman have successfully represented clients in rideshare accident cases, securing settlements and verdicts that help them move forward. Their experience in handling complex claims means they know how to deal with insurance companies and fight for fair compensation.

Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Charlotte Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t try to navigate the legal process alone. The experienced team at Rosensteel Fleishman is here to help. They offer free consultations to discuss your case and answer your questions, giving you the clarity and confidence to take the next steps.

Call Rosensteel Fleishman for a Free Consultation

Getting legal help after a rideshare accident is easier than you think. Call Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers today at 1-704-714-1450 for a free consultation. Speaking with a knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights and explore your options for pursuing compensation. Don't wait—get the legal support you need from a trusted Charlotte-based law firm today.