Bridgeport, Connecticut Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Bridgeport, CT, is the largest city in the state, boasting a population of more than 148,000 residents. Unfortunately, car accidents are a frequent occurrence in this area. Recent reports from the “Connecticut Insider” have highlighted the alarming statistics of 2022, which marked one of the deadliest years for both drivers and pedestrians in Connecticut’s history.

By December 12, 2022, a staggering total of 357 fatalities resulting from crashes had already been documented. In 2019, the “Connecticut Post” identified U.S. Route 1, Park Avenue, and Route 127 as the most dangerous roads in Bridgeport.

Urban areas like Bridgeport are more risky when it comes to motor vehicle collisions. In 2019, there were a total of 111,671 crashes statewide, with 6,298 of them taking place in Bridgeport. These accidents included 12,687 vehicles and 15,161 individuals. Bridgeport ranked among the top five cities for car accidents that year, alongside New Haven, Hartford, Waterbury, and Stamford.

Uber and Lyft started providing services in Connecticut in April 2014, offering residents a convenient mode of transportation. But with more than 9,000 drivers working for Uber alone, accidents are possible. Of course, you don’t expect when using a rideshare app to be injured in a car accident. But if you are, you may suddenly be faced with a stack of medical bills that you don’t know how you’re going to pay.

Can you get compensation from Uber or Lyft to cover your medical costs?

Recovering Damages From a Rideshare Driver Can Be Complicated

When it comes to seeking reimbursement for medical expenses, there are several important factors to consider. At Chaffin Luhana, our team of dedicated ridesharing accident lawyers is here to provide support to residents of Bridgeport, Connecticut. We have extensive knowledge of local ridesharing regulations, as well as the liability involved in ridesharing accidents.

We can guide you through the necessary steps to take after a collision and help you evaluate the factors to consider when deciding on legal action. If you have been involved in a crash with an Uber, Lyft, or any other ridesharing service, reach out to one of our experienced Connecticut ridesharing accident attorneys. They can help you explore your legal rights and options. The initial consultation with our seasoned lawyers at Chaffin Luhana is completely free of charge and does not require any commitment from your side.

Give our Bridgeport, Connecticut ridesharing accident lawyers a call today to schedule a complimentary consultation at 1-888-480-1123.

Ridesharing Fatality Rate Increased in 2019-2020

In 2022, Connecticut experienced its highest number of car crash fatalities in seven years, with a total of 368 individuals losing their lives. This marked the first time the state recorded an average of more than one traffic fatality per day. Since 2015, over 2,300 lives have been tragically lost in the state due to car crashes, primarily caused by DUI-related incidents, wrong-way crashes, and accidents resulting from distractions and other factors.

The increase in ridesharing vehicles in Bridgeport may heighten the risk of more accidents occurring. A 2018 study indicated that the rise of ride-sharing services like Uber has led to a 2-3 percent increase in fatalities in the United States since 2011, impacting not only drivers and passengers but pedestrians as well.

Uber’s most recent safety report disclosed 101 motor vehicle fatalities in 91 Uber-related accidents from 2019 to 2020, showing a seven percent increase in the fatality rate per vehicle miles traveled compared to data from 2017-2018. In 2019, approximately 68 percent of these fatalities were occupants of vehicles, while the remaining 32 percent were non-occupants like pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders. In 2020, however, the percentage of fatalities among occupants rose to 74 percent, with non-occupants making up the remaining 26 percent.

The report did not address non-fatal accidents or incidents resulting in injuries, nor did it provide information on accidents occurring when drivers were driving without passengers between rides. Lyft’s latest safety report, on the other hand, revealed a total of 105 motor vehicle fatalities from 2017 to 2019, lacking specific details on the types of fatalities involved, such as pedestrians, bicyclists, scooter riders, or other individuals.

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.

Why Do Bridgeport, Connecticut Ridesharing Accidents Happen?

Common causes of rideshare accidents in Bridgeport include the following.

Distracted Driving

In 2022, there were almost 5,200 car accidents in Connecticut caused by distracted driving. The state law bans the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while driving. Violators face a $200 fine for the first offense and $375 for the second.

Rideshare drivers are required to use apps like Uber and Lyft to do their job. This means they need to interact with their phones for navigation purposes. Despite Uber’s claim that drivers can accept rides with a single click, they often have to take time to check the rider’s location, destination, and estimated time before accepting. This can lead to distractions from their primary task of driving.

A recent study from the University of Illinois, Chicago revealed that one-third of rideshare drivers surveyed had been in a crash while on duty.

Fatigue

Between 2018 and 2022, there were a total of 6,892 crashes in Connecticut caused by drowsy or fatigued driving. Out of these, 15 resulted in fatalities and 2,513 caused injuries.

Fatigue can lead to issues like delayed reaction times and impaired decision-making, increasing the chances of accidents. Uber has implemented a “fatigue management” feature in their app, which automatically deactivates drivers for 10 consecutive hours after being online for a total of 13 hours without a continuous 10-hour rest. Additionally, the app prompts drivers to take a 30-minute break if they have been online for 7 hours continuously.

Lyft restricts its drivers to a maximum of 12 hours of driving before requiring a mandatory six-hour break. These six hours must be uninterrupted, and Lyft prevents drivers from going online until this break has been completed.

According to research conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), simply taking breaks may not be sufficient to combat driver fatigue. Other factors like driving late at night or disrupting one’s natural body clock can also contribute to driver fatigue. The study also highlights that ridesharing drivers often have driving as a side job, which further increases the risk of fatigue while behind the wheel.

Speeding

A study conducted by Zendrive and Aite Group revealed that ridesharing drivers were less likely to exceed speed limits compared to the average drivers, with only 30 percent engaging in speeding as opposed to 41 percent.

Nevertheless, if a driver aims to maximize their earnings by accepting more trips per day, they might be tempted to drive at excessive speeds. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights that speeding-related fatalities account for nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities.

Inexperience

Ridesharing services differ from taxi services in that they do not provide specific training to their drivers before allowing them to transport passengers. Instead, they have certain minimum requirements that must be met, such as having at least one year of licensed driving experience in the U.S., and three years for individuals under the age of 25.

Ridesharing drivers can be young—as young as 19, an age that falls into a higher-risk category for drivers. They may also be unfamiliar with the area or lack experience. It may take some time for them to become proficient with the app, and during the initial phase, they may find themselves more easily distracted.

Additionally, some ridesharing drivers may choose to lease a vehicle if they don’t own one, which could result in them being unfamiliar with the vehicle they are driving.

Unpredictable Driving

All drivers must stay alert and aware of their environment. Ridesharing drivers have to be extra cautious in looking out for their passengers. This is especially important when they are not familiar with the area and need to find the exact location of their passenger. Such actions may result in erratic driving behaviors like sudden stops, quick turns, or driving at a reduced speed.

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 have specific requirements for drivers’ vehicles. Both companies mandate that vehicles must not be older than 12 years. Additionally, they must have at least four doors and functioning seatbelts for the driver and a minimum of four passengers. The vehicles are supposed to be in good condition without any cosmetic damage. If drivers choose to rent a vehicle, it must be from a recognized Uber or Lyft rental provider.

While regular maintenance is recommended for drivers’ vehicles, it is not mandatory. However, drivers who neglect regular maintenance inspections put their passengers at risk. Driving for a ridesharing company puts additional strain on a vehicle, leading to more wear and tear. Financially strained drivers may delay necessary maintenance, resulting in common issues such as worn brakes, tire blowouts, missing signal lights, and faulty seatbelts or airbags.

Driving Under the Influence

Uber and Lyft have implemented stringent rules to prevent intoxicated driving, which includes prohibiting drugs and alcohol in their vehicles. Nevertheless, some drivers may choose to ignore these rules. Driving while impaired can result in slower reaction times, impaired cognitive function, and compromised decision-making, ultimately increasing the risk 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

Uber and Lyft have been given the green light to operate in Connecticut under Public Act 1-140 and C.G.S. §13b-119. This law makes it mandatory for them to register with the Connecticut Commissioner of Transportation on an annual basis. Failing to do so will result in their inability to offer their services within the state.

To ensure the safety of passengers, ridesharing drivers in Connecticut are required to undergo criminal background checks. This involves submitting their fingerprints to the FBI. This process needs to be repeated every three years. Ridesharing companies are not allowed to hire drivers who have committed more than three moving violations or one serious traffic violation within the past three years. Additionally, these companies must provide insurance coverage for their drivers while they are on duty.

That doesn’t mean that Uber or Lyft will pay for your damages in an accident without a fight, however. Some loopholes may allow them to wriggle out of liability. The most common one is the fact that ridesharing drivers are not employees, but independent contractors. That means that the company can’t be held liable in the same way that a bus company or taxi company may be.

It’s also up to you and your Bridgeport, CT lawyer to prove that the accident occurred when the ridesharing driver was “on duty.” This can be complex as well, as if the driver was not working at the time, but simply driving their vehicle, you would need to file a claim with the individual driver, not the company.

Why Would I Need a Bridgeport, Connecticut Ridesharing Lawyer?

If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident involving a ridesharing vehicle, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of a ridesharing attorney in Bridgeport, Connecticut. They will guide you through every step of the process to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, but with the help of an experienced ridesharing lawyer, negotiations become much easier. They understand how insurance companies operate and can help you determine the true cost of the accident, taking into account medical expenses, lost wages, and other non-economic factors. This will help maximize your settlement.

Trying to handle the insurance companies on your own may result in not receiving the settlement you deserve. By hiring a ridesharing attorney in Bridgeport, Connecticut, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected and that they will work diligently on your behalf to help you rebuild your life.

How to Select an Attorney in Connecticut for Your Ridesharing Accident

When looking for the best ridesharing accident attorney in Bridgeport, Connecticut, look for the following qualifications:

Experience with Ridesharing Accidents

Having a lawyer who is experienced in handling ridesharing accident cases can significantly improve your chances of success in your lawsuit. While many attorneys are familiar with car accident cases, ridesharing accidents involve unique laws in Connecticut that require specialized knowledge for effective representation.

Reputation

Take advantage of online resources to assess the reputation of the lawyer or law firm you are considering working with. Don’t hesitate to inquire about their previous clients, achievements, and referrals. A proficient attorney specializing in ridesharing accidents will readily furnish references that testify to their competence and standing.

Professionalism

When enlisting the help of a ridesharing accident attorney, remember that you’re not just hiring the lawyer, but the entire firm. Take note of the attorney’s team, as they will probably handle research and investigative tasks for you. During your visit to the office, gauge your comfort level. Judge the staff’s communication skills and professionalism to get a sense of the overall atmosphere.

Communication

When checking into various lawyers and law firms, observe their responsiveness and communication skills. Do they communicate regularly with you? Is it easy to get your questions answered? Does your lawyer explain your case without bombarding you with perplexing legal jargon?

It can be extremely frustrating to be left in the dark about your case or to have to beg for updates from your attorney’s office. Take note of how each lawyer on your list interacts with you, as well as how the firm as a whole communicates before making your decision.

Fees

It’s usually best to choose a ridesharing accident lawyer who works on a contingency basis. That means you will be billed only if they can successfully obtain a settlement or judgment on your behalf. You may still be responsible for covering certain minor expenses, such as filing fees and fees for expert witnesses. In your initial consultation, ask about which expenses you may 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 Bridgeport?

In the event of a car accident, the usual course of action is to pursue compensation from the insurance company of the driver at fault. However, if the responsible driver happens to be a rideshare driver, their insurance coverage may not extend to cover your damages unless they have a commercial policy or a specific personal insurance policy that includes accidents that occur while they are working.

Considering that most rideshare drivers do not have such policies, you would need to turn to Uber or Lyft’s third-party insurance company for liability coverage. These policies provide liability insurance, but only under specific circumstances.

• 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.

Compared to ridesharing services insurance requirements, those for an individual driver are typically much lower:

• Liability: Must be up to $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.

Looking at the two, you can see why you may get more compensation from Uber or Lyft’s insurance than you would from the driver’s insurance. Getting legal representation can ensure you get the fair compensation you deserve.

What Are My Options After a Ridesharing Accident?

Your options after a ridesharing accident depend on two factors:

1. Your role in the accident (were you the driver, passenger, or third party?)
2. 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 insurance of the ridesharing service. Keep in mind that their regulations will be in effect.

There was shared fault

In Connecticut, the compensation you receive after an accident is determined by a comparative negligence system. This means that the amount of compensation will be reduced based on your level of fault in the accident.

If you are found to be more than 50 percent at fault, you won’t be eligible to seek damages. If you were only 20 percent at fault, however, and the other driver was 80 percent at fault, their insurance would cover 80 percent of the damages you incurred.

Dealing with these situations can be complicated, especially when it involves filing a claim with a ridesharing company’s insurance. That’s where the expertise of a ridesharing accident attorney can be incredibly valuable.

How Do I Get Money After a Ridesharing Accident in Bridgeport, Connecticut?

If you find yourself in a ridesharing accident, it’s important to reach out to your attorney in Bridgeport, Connecticut. They will carefully examine the case details to determine who is at fault and gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.

It can be a challenging process to seek compensation from Uber or Lyft. Insurance companies often prioritize cutting costs and may try to undermine your claim, avoid taking responsibility, or shift blame onto others involved in the accident.

Make sure to keep a comprehensive record of all evidence and share it with your attorney. This includes taking screenshots of your Uber or Lyft account, noting down the specific details of the ride during the incident, and keeping any relevant communications with individuals involved or witnesses to the accident.

What Types of Compensation are Available After A Ridesharing Accident?

If you suffered from serious injuries after a ridesharing accident, you may be eligible for the following types of compensation:

• Medical expenses: Covering both current and future medical bills, along with costs for physical therapy and long-term care if necessary.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can pursue compensation for the wages you have lost.
• Diminished earning capacity: If your injuries are severe enough to hinder your ability to return to work, you are entitled to compensation for this loss.
• Disability and disfigurement: In cases where you are left paralyzed or disabled due to the accident, or if you sustain permanent disfigurement, you can file a claim for these damages.
• Property damage: If your vehicle was struck by a ridesharing driver, you can seek compensation for the damages. The same applies if you were riding a bicycle or motorcycle, provided the ridesharing driver was at fault.
• Pain and suffering/emotional distress: While these damages are harder to quantify, your ridesharing accident lawyer can assist you in gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim.
• Loss of consortium: If your injuries or disability prevent you from offering the same level of support and companionship to your partner or spouse as before, they may be able to claim loss of consortium.

What If I Was Traveling In a Vehicle That Was Involved In An Accident With A Ridesharing Vehicle?

If you find yourself in a car accident involving a ridesharing vehicle while in another vehicle, you have the choice to seek compensation from either the ridesharing driver or the other driver at fault. Make sure to carefully review the police report and any other evidence you can gather. If you have doubts about the conclusions, it’s advisable to consult with a ridesharing accident attorney in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

What Should I Do After I Am Involved In A Ridesharing Accident?

If you are involved in an accident with a ridesharing vehicle, start by following the standard procedures for any car accident. Ensure the well-being of all parties involved and contact 9-1-1 if needed. Seek medical assistance for yourself promptly.

Even if you are not experiencing any immediate symptoms, it’s still best to see the doctor, as certain injuries such as whiplash, herniated discs, meniscus tears, and other latent car accident injuries may not be immediately apparent. Keeping detailed medical records can be crucial if you decide to pursue a claim later on.

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.
• Report the accident to the ridesharing company.
• 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 report the accident and 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?

As noted above, Connecticut state regulations require ridesharing drivers to have their own insurance policies. Additionally, companies like Uber and Lyft are obligated to provide coverage for their drivers while they are on duty.

If a ridesharing driver is at fault in an accident, you can file a claim with their personal insurance. However, it’s important to note that the claim may be denied if the driver doesn’t have the appropriate coverage for a “working” driver. A driver’s insurance is also likely to offer less money than a ridesharing company’s insurance.

To explore your options, consult with a ridesharing lawyer in Bridgeport, Connecticut about potentially filing a claim against the ridesharing company. The amount of compensation available depends on whether the driver was using the ridesharing app at the time of the accident and if they had accepted a trip or had passengers in the vehicle. If the driver wasn’t using the app during the accident, the ridesharing company cannot be held responsible. In such cases, your only option is to seek damages from the driver’s insurance provider.

How Long Do I Have to File A Personal Injury Case Against a Ridesharing Company in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, it is crucial to file a personal injury claim within two years of the injury or when you became aware of it. Failing to do so will prevent you from seeking compensation.

There are exceptions to this rule. If you were injured by a drunk driver and want to sue the establishment that provided or sold the alcohol, you only have one year from the date of that service to take legal action. In cases of wrongful death resulting from a crash, you have a two-year window to file a claim.

If the injuries didn’t cause immediate death but led to death later on, you may have up to five years from the accident date to file a claim. If the responsible party leaves Connecticut, the statute of limitations is paused for a maximum of seven years.

Additionally, if you plan to file a claim against a government agency like the city of Bridgeport or the state of Connecticut, there are special notice and filing deadline requirements that typically last only 30 to 90 days.

It’s always advisable not to delay taking action, as the details of the case may fade over time. Gathering evidence and witness testimonies is easier in the early stages, as memories may fade, videos could be deleted, and obtaining other types of evidence may become more challenging as time passes.

Your Trusted Ridesharing Accident Lawyer in Bridgeport, Connecticut

The ridesharing accident attorneys at Chaffin Luhana serve victims in Bridgeport 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.