New Haven, Connecticut Rideshare Accident Lawyer
With a population of about 138,915, New Haven, Connecticut is the second most populous city in the state. A vibrant and growing city located in the southeastern part of the state, New Haven has a variety of transportation options available, including buses, shuttles, trolleys, trains, ferries, and ridesharing automobiles. At peak times of the day, traffic gets heavier as commuters go back and forth between New Haven and neighboring cities like Hartford and New York City.
According to the New Haven Register, Interstate 91 was the most accident-prone location in the city between 2019 to 2021. A total of 1,493 collisions occurred on this road, while Interstate 95 witnessed 1,057 accidents. Another area prone to accidents was Route 10. From January 1, 2018, to July 1, 2021, Route 10 experienced 1,396 crashes. Additional areas prone to accidents were Route 1, Chapel Street, Route 80, Whalley Avenue, and Route 63.
In April 2014, Uber and Lyft began operations in Connecticut, offering consumers a convenient and accessible way to get around. Currently, over 9,000 people drive for Uber in the state. Like any vehicle, however, a ridesharing vehicle may be involved in an accident. If you are a passenger in the vehicle and you’re seriously injured, you may wonder how you might recover your medical expenses.
Is an accident involving a ridesharing vehicle the same as a regular car accident?
When it comes to getting reimbursed for your medical expenses, there are some critical differences. Chaffin Luhana supports New Haven, Connecticut residents with experienced and dedicated ridesharing accident attorneys. We address local ride-sharing laws, who pays for a ridesharing accident, what to do following a collision, and reasons why you may consider filing a lawsuit.
If you have been involved in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or other ridesharing vehicle, it is always best to contact a qualified Connecticut ridesharing accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. When you speak with an experienced attorney at Chaffin Luhana, the consultation costs nothing and puts you under no obligation whatsoever.
Give our New Haven, Connecticut ridesharing accident lawyers a call today to schedule a complimentary consultation at 1-888-480-1123.
Ridesharing Fatality Rate Increased in 2019-2020
The year 2022 witnessed the highest count of car crash fatalities in Connecticut in seven years, resulting in an approximate death toll of 368 individuals. This year also marked the first time when the state recorded an average of more than one traffic fatality per day.
From 2015 to the present, car crashes have tragically claimed the lives of over 2,300 individuals in the state. The majority of these incidents were attributed to DUI-involved crashes, wrong-way crashes, or accidents caused by distraction and various other factors.
With the growing number of ridesharing vehicles on the streets of New Haven, there is a potential for an increase in accidents. A 2018 study conducted by researchers from the University of Chicago and Rice University revealed that the proliferation of ride-sharing services such as Uber has led to a 2-3 percent rise in fatalities in the U.S. since 2011. This rise in fatalities is not limited to just vehicle occupants, but also includes pedestrians, and seems to be a trend that continues to persist or even worsen over time.
Uber’s latest safety report reveals that there were 101 motor vehicle fatalities in 91 Uber-related accidents between 2019 and 2020. This represents a 7 percent increase in the fatality rate per vehicle miles traveled compared to Uber’s data from 2017-2018.
In 2019, approximately 68 percent of these fatalities were vehicle occupants, while the remaining 32 percent were non-occupants such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders. However, in 2020, the percentage of fatalities among occupants rose to 74 percent, with non-occupants accounting for the remaining 26 percent.
The report did not mention non-fatal accidents or accidents that resulted in injuries. Nor did it provide information about accidents that occurred when drivers were driving without passengers between rides.
Lyft’s latest safety report revealed a total of 105 motor vehicle fatalities from 2017 to 2019. Unlike Uber, Lyft’s report lacks specific details on the types of fatalities, such as whether they involved pedestrians, bicyclists, scooter riders, or other individuals.
Common Causes of Ridesharing Accidents in New Haven, Connecticut
Common causes of rideshare accidents in New Haven include the following.
Distracted Driving
The likelihood of a collision goes up when drivers use mobile devices, operate a vehicle while fatigued, or navigate unfamiliar routes. Distracted driving poses a concern for nearly all motorists, but those working as rideshare drivers may be especially vulnerable to it.
As part of their occupation, drivers are required to handle their applications and input data on their phones for navigation purposes. Furthermore, they must manage new passengers who may exhibit disruptive behavior, be under the influence of alcohol, or be unwell.
Uber purports that its drivers can accept rides with a single click. In truth, drivers often take more time to look at the location of the rider, the destination, and the time needed to complete the ride before accepting it. All this can keep them distracted from their main duty of driving.
According to a recent study from the University of Illinois, Chicago, one-third of rideshare drivers surveyed reported being involved in a crash while working.
Fatigue
Exhaustion may result in problems such as delayed reaction times and impaired decision-making, which can elevate the likelihood of an accident. Uber has integrated a “fatigue management” function in their application, which deactivates drivers for 10 continuous hours once they have been online for a total of 13 hours without a consecutive 10-hour rest. Additionally, the feature prompts drivers to take a 30-minute break if they have been online for 7 hours continuously.
Lyft limits its drivers to 12 hours of driving before requiring a mandatory six-hour break. That six hours must be uninterrupted, and Lyft prevents drivers from going online with its app until those hours have passed.
Based on a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), simply taking breaks may not be sufficient in combating driver fatigue. Additional factors such as driving during late hours or against one’s natural circadian rhythms can contribute to driver tiredness. Furthermore, the aforementioned study highlights that ridesharing drivers often engage in driving as a secondary occupation, which further increases the likelihood of fatigue while on the road.
Speeding
According to a study by Zendrive and Aite Group, ridesharing drivers were less likely to speed than average drivers (30 percent compared to 41 percent). If a driver is trying to make more money by accepting additional trips per day, however, they may succumb to the temptation to go too fast.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding-related fatalities make up almost one-third of all traffic fatalities.
Inexperience
Ridesharing services, unlike taxi services, do not offer any specific training to their drivers before permitting them to transport passengers. Instead, they have a set of minimum criteria that must be met, such as possessing a minimum of one year of licensed driving experience in the U.S., and three years for individuals under the age of 25.
Ridesharing drivers could potentially be young, unfamiliar with the area, or lacking in experience. Mastering the app can be a gradual process. In the initial phase, drivers might find themselves more prone to distractions. Additionally, certain ridesharing drivers might choose to lease a vehicle if they do not possess one, leading to potential unfamiliarity with the vehicle they are operating.
Unpredictable Driving
All drivers have to stay alert to their surroundings. Ridesharing drivers, though, must also scan to find their passengers. Particularly if they are not familiar with the area, they may need to look around to find the right street where their passenger is waiting. This can cause unpredictable driving, including unexpected stops, sudden turns, or slow driving.
Aggressive Driving
Any driver may choose to drive aggressively. A ridesharing driver may choose to do so to reach their destination more quickly. They may speed, tailgate, or make abrupt lane changes—all of which can increase the risk of an accident.
Poorly Maintained Vehicle
Uber and Lyft require drivers’ vehicles to meet certain standards. They must have a minimum of four doors, for example, as well as functioning seatbelts for the driver and at least four passengers. They must be in good condition without any cosmetic damage. Rental vehicles are only permitted if they are from a recognized Uber or Lyft rental provider.
Both companies also recommend regular maintenance on drivers’ vehicles but do not require it. Drivers who fail to perform regular maintenance inspections put their passengers at risk. Common issues include worn brakes, tire blowouts, missing signal lights, and faulty seatbelts or airbags.
Driving Under the Influence
Uber and Lyft enforce strict regulations against intoxicated driving, prohibiting both drugs and alcohol inside their vehicles. However, instances of such behavior still occur. Similar to any other driver, a ridesharing driver might opt to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. This impairment can lead to delayed reaction times, impaired cognitive function, and compromised decision-making, ultimately elevating the likelihood of an accident.
Unsafe or Illegal Parking
Ridesharing drivers may park in strange places when picking up or dropping off passengers. This can affect surrounding traffic and may put other drivers or pedestrians in danger.
Connecticut Ridesharing Laws
Transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft are allowed to operate in Connecticut under Public Act 1-140 and C.G.S. §13b-119. Under this law, they must register with the Connecticut Commissioner of Transportation each year, or they will no longer be permitted to operate in the state.
Connecticut ridesharing drivers must also pass a criminal background check that includes submitting fingerprints to the FBI. They must repeat this process every three years. Ridesharing companies cannot hire drivers who, in the last three years, have committed more than three moving violations or committed one serious traffic violation.
Finally, ridesharing companies must insure their drivers while they’re working.
How to Select an Attorney in Connecticut for Your Ridesharing Accident
When looking for the best ridesharing accident attorney in New Haven, Connecticut, look for the following qualifications:
Experience with Ridesharing Accidents
You increase your chances of being successful in your ridesharing accident lawsuit if you have an attorney who has experience with your type of case. Many lawyers have experience with car accidents, but ridesharing accidents are different. There are unique laws in Connecticut that apply, and your attorney needs to be well-versed in these to properly represent you.
Reputation
It’s easy these days to find out more about the firm you’re considering working with. Check online to see what sort of reputation they have. Then feel free to ask them about their other clients, their results, and their referrals. A good ridesharing accident attorney will be willing to provide references that speak to their abilities and their reputation.
Professionalism
When engaging the services of a ridesharing accident lawyer, it is important to consider that you are not solely hiring the attorney, but the entire firm or office. Pay attention to the attorney’s staff, as they will likely be responsible for conducting research and investigative work on your behalf. When visiting the office, assess whether you feel at ease. Evaluate the staff members’ ability to communicate clearly and politely, and assess the overall professionalism of the atmosphere.
Communication
While you’re checking into different lawyers and law firms, pay attention to how well each responds and communicates with you. It’s annoying not knowing the status of your case and getting no updates from your attorney’s office. It’s also tough trying to discuss your case with your attorney when all you hear are confusing legal terms. Watch how the lawyer and the firm interact with you in the beginning stages before you decide.
Fees
Make sure to select a ridesharing accident attorney who operates on a contingency basis. This way, they won’t bill you unless they successfully secure a settlement or judgment on your behalf. Keep in mind that you might still need to cover minor expenses such as filing fees and expert witness fees. Clarify the attorney’s fee structure to know what expenses you’ll need to cover.
What Our Clients Have to Say About Chaffin Luhana
Below is a small sampling of the testimonials we have received from our clients:
Auto Personal Injury Recovery
“It’s a shame that the insurance companies put you through this…I’m glad there are people like you out there because the insurance companies would walk all over victims otherwise.”
– Mark S., Personal Injury Client
Automobile Accident Victim
“[The firm has] done right [by] me. You did everything right. Informing me and keeping me up to date. You did a fine job. I appreciate you very much.”
– Roger J., Personal Injury Client
Automobile Accident Victim
“I didn’t know what to expect since I never needed an attorney before. You took care of everything and were there for me.”
– Vicki B., Personal Injury Client
Find more testimonials here.
Dedication to Community
Law partners Eric Chaffin and Roopal Luhana, along with their families, established The Chaffin Luhana Foundation in 2010.
A not-for-profit organization, the Foundation encourages the development of human potential and supports community empowerment through the following activities:
- Scholarships: The Chaffin Luhana Foundation awards an annual scholarship to a student who helps us in the fight against distracted driving by submitting an inspiring personal essay.
- Financial gifts: The Foundation awards periodic financial gifts to institutions of higher learning to support scientific research and funds educational scholarships to students.
- Stephanie Victor Legacy Award: The Chaffin Luhana Foundation awards an annual financial gift to one deserving individual who overcame significant challenges and achieved great milestones in his or her life or career.
- Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: Chaffin Luhana has partnered with this organization to benefit those living with spinal cord injuries and paralysis.
- Najee Harris Partnership: We have partnered with Pittsburgh Running Back, Najee Harris, and his Da’ Bigger Picture Foundation to support those in need in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Firm Awards
The founding partners of Chaffin Luhana have extensive experience in fighting for plaintiffs’ rights:
- Founder Eric Chaffin: Chaffin has handled a wide array of cases against various types of manufacturers, with dozens of multimillion-dollar recoveries.
- Founder Roopal Luhana: Luhana manages the firm’s mass torts division. Throughout her career, she has served on committees in MDLs involving over-the-counter consumer products and defective pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
- Partner Patrick Booth: Booth enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help his clients obtain the best results possible in their personal injury cases.
Chaffin Luhana lawyers have also been named to the prestigious “Super Lawyers” list several years in a row.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Financially Responsible After A Ridesharing Accident in New Haven?
Usually, in the event of a car accident, you would typically pursue compensation from the insurance company of the driver responsible for the accident. If the driver at fault happens to be a rideshare driver, however, their insurance might cover the damages only if they have a commercial policy or special personal insurance policy that covers accidents while they’re working.
Since most rideshare drivers don’t have that kind of policy, you would look to Uber or Lyft’s third-party insurance company for liability coverage. These policies offer liability insurance only under certain conditions:
- During period 1, when the driver is logged in but has not accepted a ride, both companies cover up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, up to $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and up to $25,000/accident for property damage.
- During period 2, when the driver has accepted a trip, liability coverage increases to $1 million.
- During period 3, when the rider is in the car, liability coverage extends up to $1 million, with limited coverage for property damage and uninsured motorist coverage.
If the app is off and the driver was not working for a ridesharing company at the time, neither Uber nor Lyft will cover any damages. The driver’s auto insurance coverage will apply.
What Are My Options After a Ridesharing Accident?
Your options after a ridesharing accident depend on two factors:
- Your role in the accident (were you the driver, passenger, or third party?)
- Which party caused the accident
Usually, the party who caused the accident is liable for damages. Connecticut is an “at-fault” state, which means that the person who is at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for other people’s injuries and property damage.
Here are some examples:
A third party was at fault
If another driver hit the ridesharing vehicle you were riding in, you and the driver would seek medical damages from the at-fault party’s insurance company.
The ridesharing driver was at fault
If you were riding in the ridesharing car, driving another car, or walking or biking and got injured in the crash, you should submit a claim to the insurance company of the driver responsible, or the ridesharing company’s insurance. Keep in mind that their regulations will be in effect.
There was shared fault
Connecticut operates under a comparative negligence system, which means that the compensation you receive will be decreased based on your level of fault in the accident. If you are determined to be more than 50 percent at fault, you won’t be able to seek damages. However, if you were only 20 percent at fault and the other driver was 80 percent at fault, their insurance would cover 80 percent of your damages.
As you can see, these cases can become complicated, particularly if you have to file a claim with the ridesharing company’s insurance. This is where a ridesharing accident attorney can help.
How Do I Get Money After a Ridesharing Accident in New Haven, Connecticut?
After a ridesharing accident, check with your attorney. They can examine the facts of the case to determine who was at fault, and to gather evidence to support your case.
If you choose to pursue a claim against Uber or Lyft, be prepared to fight hard to receive the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies are primarily focused on saving money, so they might attempt to undercut you, avoid responsibility, or pin the blame on someone else for the accident.
Keep track of all the evidence you have and share it with your attorney. Include screenshots of your Uber or Lyft account, the specific ride you were taking when the accident occurred, and copies of any communications you had with people involved in or who were witnesses to the accident.
What Types of Compensation are Available After A Ridesharing Accident?
The types of compensation that may be available to you (depending on your circumstance) after a ridesharing accident include the following:
- Medical damages: This includes current and future medical bills, as well as physical therapy and long-term care if needed.
- Lost wages: If your injuries keep you from being able to work, you can seek compensation for your lost wages.
- Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries are severe enough that they will keep you from returning to your job, you deserve compensation for this.
- Disability and disfigurement: If you were paralyzed or otherwise disabled in the accident, or if you suffered from injuries that resulted in permanent disfigurement, you can make a claim for these damages.
- Property damages: If you were driving another car that was hit by a ridesharing driver, you can claim your property damages. The same would be true if you were riding a bike or motorcycle, as long as the ridesharing driver was at fault.
- Pain and suffering/emotional distress: Though these damages can be more difficult to quantify, your ridesharing accident attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to support this claim.
- Loss of consortium: If you are hurt or disabled to the point that you can no longer provide the support and companionship to your partner or spouse that you did before, your partner or spouse can claim loss of consortium.
What If I Was Traveling In a Vehicle That Was Involved In An Accident With A Ridesharing Vehicle?
If you happened to be in a different vehicle that got into a collision with a ridesharing vehicle, there’s a chance you could seek compensation from either the ridesharing driver or another driver at fault. Examine the police report and other supporting evidence. If you don’t agree with their conclusions, consult a ridesharing accident attorney in New Haven, Connecticut for assistance.
What Should I Do After I Am Involved In A Ridesharing Accident?
If you find yourself in an accident with a ridesharing vehicle, begin by taking the same steps you would for any other car accident. Make sure everyone involved is okay and call 9-1-1 if necessary. As soon as you can, seek medical attention for yourself. Even if you feel fine, it’s still a good idea to get checked for potential injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, meniscus tears, and other hidden car accident injuries. Your medical records could play a vital role if you decide to file a claim in the future.
If you’re a ridesharing passenger involved in a collision, you may want to do the following…
- Use your phone to snap photos and videos of the crash scene and property damage, if possible.
- Make note of the driver’s name and information and contact info of other parties involved.
- Try to get the contact information of any eyewitnesses who saw the crash.
- Do not assume the ridesharing driver’s policy will cover your injury claim. You may need a Connecticut ridesharing accident lawyer to fight.
If you’re a ridesharing driver hit by another vehicle, you may want to do the following…
- Call 9-1-1 to file an accident report and seek medical attention, even if the damage seems minor.
- Take photos, looking particularly for skid marks or lack thereof. Get witness contact information.
- Get the other driver’s license plate number, insurance provider, and contact information.
- Be careful what you say, resisting the bait to apologize or admit liability for the crash.
- Contact your ridesharing company to find out if you are allowed to continue driving for them during the investigation.
- Call your insurance provider to find out who pays for the accident.
- Contact a Connecticut ridesharing accident attorney to negotiate compensation.
If you’re driving another vehicle and get struck by a ridesharing driver, you may want to do the following…
- Get the names and contact information of all witnesses.
- Take as many photos of the accident scene and the cars involved from different angles as possible.
- Call the police from the accident scene to file a report, insisting that the ridesharing driver stick around.
- Contact a law firm to represent your best interests, particularly when dealing with insurers.
Are Connecticut Ridesharing Drivers Insured?
Ridesharing drivers in Connecticut are required to have their own insurance policies according to state regulations. Companies such as Uber and Lyft are also obligated to provide coverage for their drivers during working hours. If you get into an accident with a ridesharing driver who is found to be responsible, you can file a claim with their insurance. However, the claim might be rejected if the driver lacks the proper coverage for a “working” driver.
It’s best to talk to your New Haven, Connecticut ridesharing attorney about potentially filing a claim against the ridesharing company. Both Uber and Lyft provide additional insurance to cover accidents involving their drivers. The rules mentioned above apply.
The amount of compensation available depends on whether the driver was logged into the ridesharing app at the time of the accident, and whether they had accepted a trip or were carrying passengers.
If the driver was not logged into the app at the time of the accident, the ridesharing company cannot be held liable. Your only option then is to seek damages from the driver’s insurance company.
How Long Do I Have to File A Personal Injury Case Against a Ridesharing Company in Connecticut?
In general, you must file a personal injury claim in Connecticut within two years from the date of the injury After this period, you will not be able to pursue compensation.
There are some exceptions to this rule:
- Drunk Driver: If you were injured by a drunk driver and you want to sue the entity that provided or sold the alcohol to the drunk driver, you have only one year from the date of that service to do so.
- Wrongful Death: If you or a loved one passed away in the crash, you have two years to file a claim. But if the injuries didn’t cause the death right away, you may be able to file a claim up to five years from the date of the accident that eventually caused the death.
- Absence from Connecticut: If the at-fault party leaves the state, the statute of limitations doesn’t run during the time—up to a maximum of seven years—that they’re away.
- Claims Against the Government: If you wish to file against a government agency—such as against the city of New Haven or the state of Connecticut—your claim will be subject to special notice and filing deadline requirements. Check with your ridesharing attorney for more information.
It’s best not to procrastinate, though. You don’t want the details of the case to fade away. It’s much easier to gather evidence about the accident in the early stages. As time goes on, witnesses might forget important details, videos could get deleted, and obtaining other types of evidence may become more challenging.
Your Trusted Ridesharing Accident Lawyer in New Haven, Connecticut
The ridesharing accident attorneys at Chaffin Luhana serve victims in the New Haven and the Connecticut State area. We are passionate advocates for plaintiffs who have suffered injuries in ridesharing accidents and stand ready to help you pursue compensation to the fullest extent allowed under Connecticut law.
Call us today at (888) 480-1123.