Hartford, Connecticut Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Hartford, Connecticut has a population of about 120,686. Established in 1635, the city has a rich historical background and is considered one of the oldest cities in the United States. Additionally, it serves as a significant industrial hub.

Unfortunately, the urban area poses risks in terms of motor vehicle collisions. Last year, there were a total of 111,671 crashes statewide, with 7,094 of them taking place in Hartford. These accidents included 14,125 vehicles and 19,085 individuals. Hartford ranked among the top five cities for car accidents in 2019, alongside New Haven, Bridgeport, Waterbury, and Stamford.

Uber and Lyft started providing services in Connecticut in April 2014, providing residents with a convenient transportation option. But with more than 9,000 drivers working for Uber alone, accidents are possible. If you sustain serious injuries as a passenger in one of these vehicles, you may be concerned about how to cover your medical costs.

Is an accident involving a ridesharing vehicle the same as a regular car accident?

When seeking reimbursement for medical expenses, there are a few key distinctions. Chaffin Luhana provides support to residents of Hartford, Connecticut through skilled and committed ridesharing accident lawyers. We understand local ridesharing regulations, liability for ridesharing accidents, steps to take post-collision, and factors to consider when contemplating legal action.

If you have been in a crash involving an Uber, Lyft, or similar ridesharing service, reach out to a knowledgeable Connecticut ridesharing accident attorney to explore your legal rights. A consultation with a seasoned lawyer at Chaffin Luhana is free of charge and carries no obligation on your part.

Give our Hartford, 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 saw its highest number of car crash fatalities in seven years. A total of 368 people died. That year also marked the first time when the state recorded an average of more than one traffic fatality per day.

From 2015 until now, more than 2,300 lives have been tragically lost in the state due to car crashes. The primary causes of these incidents were DUI-involved crashes, wrong-way crashes, and accidents caused by distraction and other factors.

The rise in the number of ridesharing vehicles in Hartford may increase the risk of more accidents occurring. According to a 2018 study, the prevalence of ride-sharing services like Uber has resulted in a 2-3 percent increase in fatalities in the United States since 2011. This increase in fatalities affects not only drivers and passengers but pedestrians as well.

Uber’s latest safety report reveals that there were 101 motor vehicle fatalities in 91 Uber-related accidents from 2019 to 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 occupants of vehicles, 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 Hartford, Connecticut

Common causes of rideshare accidents in Hartford include the following.

Distracted Driving

In 2022, there were nearly 5,200 car crashes in the state attributed to distracted driving. Connecticut law prohibits the use of any hand-held mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Ticketed drivers are fined $200 for the first offense, and $375 for the second.

Yet to do their jobs, rideshare drivers must operate the apps provided by Uber, Lyft, and other companies. That means they have to handle their applications and input data on their phones for navigation purposes.

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

Between 2018 and 2022, drowsy or fatigued driving resulted in 6,892 crashes in Connecticut, of which 15 were fatalities and 2,513 caused injuries. 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.

According to research carried out by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), merely taking breaks might not be enough to combat driver fatigue. Other factors like driving late at night or going against one’s natural body clock can also play a role in making drivers feel tired. Moreover, the study points out that ridesharing drivers frequently drive as a side job, which can raise the risk of fatigue during their journeys.

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

Unlike taxi services, ridesharing services do not provide any specific training to their drivers before allowing them to transport passengers. Instead, they have a set of 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 may be young—as young as 19, which is a higher-risk category for drivers—unfamiliar with the area, or lacking in experience. Becoming proficient with the app can take time. During the initial phase, drivers may find themselves more easily distracted. Furthermore, 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 need to remain vigilant of their surroundings. Ridesharing drivers, however, have an additional responsibility of scanning for their passengers. Especially if they are unfamiliar with the location, they may have to search for the correct street where their passenger is located. This behavior can lead to erratic driving such as abrupt stops, sudden turns, or driving at a slower pace.

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. Both companies require vehicles to be no more than 12 years old. They must have a minimum of four doors, and 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. Driving for a ridesharing company puts more wear and tear on a vehicle. Drivers who are financially strapped may put off necessary maintenance. Common issues include 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

Transportation network companies such as Uber and Lyft are authorized to function in Connecticut by Public Act 1-140 any This legislation mandates that they register annually with the Connecticut Commissioner of Transportation. Failure to do so will result in their inability to operate within the state.

Connecticut ridesharing drivers are also required to undergo criminal background checks, which involve submitting fingerprints to the FBI. This process must be repeated every three years. Ridesharing companies are prohibited from hiring drivers who have committed more than three moving violations or one serious traffic violation within the last three years. Additionally, ridesharing companies must provide insurance coverage for their drivers while they are on duty.

Why Would I Need a Hartford, Connecticut Ridesharing Lawyer?

If your injuries are serious after an accident involving a ridesharing vehicle, it’s always best to get your Hartford, Connecticut ridesharing attorney’s help. They can assist you with every step of the process to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Negotiating with insurance companies can be stressful. Your experienced ridesharing lawyer, however, understands how insurance companies work and can make negotiations a lot easier. They can also help you figure out the true cost of the accident, figuring in your medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic costs, maximizing your settlement.

If you try to deal with the insurance companies on your own, you may not receive the settlement you deserve. Your Hartford, Connecticut ridesharing attorney will protect your rights while working on your behalf to help you put your life back together.

How to Select an Attorney in Connecticut for Your Ridesharing Accident

When looking for the best ridesharing accident attorney in Hartford, 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 Hartford?

Typically, in the case of a car crash, you would seek compensation from the insurance provider of the driver responsible for the incident. If the liable driver is a rideshare driver, though, their insurance coverage may not cover your damages unless they possess a commercial policy or a specific personal insurance policy that includes accidents occurring during their work hours.

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:

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

Connecticut operates under a comparative negligence system, which means that the amount of compensation you receive 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 will not be eligible to seek damages. If you were only 20 percent at fault and the other driver was 80 percent at fault, however, their insurance would cover 80 percent of the damages you incurred.

These situations can become complex, especially when it comes to filing a claim with the insurance of a ridesharing company. This is where the expertise of a ridesharing accident attorney can be invaluable.

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

In the event of a ridesharing accident, consult with your Hartford, Connecticut attorney. They will thoroughly analyze the details of the case to determine liability and gather supporting evidence for your claim.

You may need to be prepared for a tough battle when seeking compensation from Uber or Lyft. Insurance companies often prioritize cost-cutting measures and may try to undermine your claim, evade responsibility, or shift blame onto others involved in the accident.

Maintain a comprehensive record of all evidence and share it with your attorney. This includes screenshots of your Uber or Lyft account, details of the specific ride during the incident, and any relevant communications with individuals involved or who witnessed 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 were involved in a car accident with a ridesharing vehicle while in a different vehicle, you may have the option to pursue compensation from either the ridesharing driver or the other driver responsible. Review the police report and any additional evidence available. If you disagree with the findings, seek guidance from a ridesharing accident lawyer in Hartford, 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 for you.

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?

Ridesharing drivers in Connecticut must have their own insurance policies as per state regulations. Companies like Uber and Lyft are also required to offer coverage for their drivers while they are on duty.

In case of an accident involving a ridesharing driver who is at fault, you can file a claim with their personal insurance. However, the claim may be denied if the driver does not have the appropriate coverage for a “working” driver. Consult with your Hartford, Connecticut ridesharing lawyer about potentially filing a claim against the ridesharing company.

Uber and Lyft both offer additional insurance to cover accidents with their drivers. The compensation amount available is determined by whether the driver was using the ridesharing app during the accident and if they had accepted a trip or had passengers in the vehicle. If the driver was not using the app at the time of the accident, the ridesharing company cannot be held responsible. In such cases, your only recourse is to pursue 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, in general, you must file a personal injury claim within two years from the date of the injury Failure to do so will result in the inability to seek compensation.

There are exceptions to this rule. If you were injured by a drunk driver and want to sue the entity 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 two years to file a claim. If the injuries didn’t cause immediate death, but the death occurred later because of those injuries, you may have up to five years from the accident date to file a claim.

If the at-fault party leaves Connecticut, the statute of limitations is paused for a maximum of seven years. Additionally, if you wish to file a claim against a government agency, such as the city of Hartford or the state of Connecticut, special notice and filing deadline requirements apply, typically lasting only 30 to 90 days.

It’s always best 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 Hartford, Connecticut

The ridesharing accident attorneys at Chaffin Luhana serve victims in the Hartford 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.