Cook County Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys

Lawyers in Glenview and Northbrook for Clients Injured By or While Riding in a Vehicle for Hire

Throughout the United States—including here in Illinois—ridesharing services such as Uber, Lyft, and several others have completely revolutionized how many people get where they need to go. As a result, these ride-hailing companies have built themselves up to be credible competition to more traditional taxicab services, and taxi companies in many areas have had to re-evaluate and re-engineer their existing business models. While the specifics will depend on where in the country you are and your intended destination, getting an Uber or a Lyft ride is likely to be cheaper, faster, and more readily available compared to a regular taxi. Using a web-based ride-hailing service, however, does have some risks.

The experienced team at Gruzmark Law, Ltd. , recognize that by using an app like Uber or Lyft, you fully expect to arrive at your destination relatively quickly and always safely. A ride that takes longer because of traffic congestion or construction detours is understandable, but there is no excuse for compromising your safety. Accidents involving rideshare vehicles, limousines, and other vehicles for hire do occur—and they happen more frequently than you probably realize. When you have been injured in an accident that involves a vehicle for hire, recovering the compensation you need can be complicated, often as a result of the complex web of insurance coverages involved with most such companies. With this in mind, it is important to contact one of our qualified injury lawyers to get the help you need in securing the damages to which the law says you are entitled.

Wheeling Counsel for Injured Victims

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies conduct a series of background checks and safety screenings on prospective and current drivers. Their goal is to provide passengers with a pleasant and safe ride experience. However, rideshare drivers are not trained professionals. Uber and Lyft do not require their drivers to undergo any driving training beyond obtaining a state-issued driver's license. Unfortunately, this means that many hired drivers do not drive as safely as they should.

When you ride in a rideshare vehicle—or any car for hire—the company's liability insurance should provide coverage for any injuries you suffer in an accident. In some states, rideshare services are required by law to carry primary liability insurance whenever a driver is actively online, even if the driver has no passengers on board. This means that if a driver who is online with a rideshare company causes an accident, the company is responsible for any resulting injuries.

It is one thing for a ride-hailing company's insurance company to be considered responsible for injuries; it is often another thing altogether to obtain the actual payout. Uber, Lyft, or the limo company might attempt to blame you for the accident, or the company might claim that it is not responsible for a driver who failed to follow safety guidelines. The insurance company might also challenge the severity of your injuries so as to limit financial liability. If you wish to obtain full compensation, you may need to file claims with several insurance companies—including your own insurer and the company that carries the personal policy of the driver who was at fault for the accident.

Call 847-729-7660 for a Free Consult

Rideshare companies, limousine services, and other entities that offer vehicles for hire depend on their reputations to stay in business. Therefore, they are often hesitant to accept responsibility when an accident occurs. If you or someone you love has been hurt in an Uber, Lyft, or limousine accident, contact our office for help with forcing the appropriate company to take responsibility. Schedule a free consultation by calling 847-729-7660 today. We represent injured clients in Cook County, Lake County, DuPage County, the North Shore, Glenview, Northbrook, Wheeling, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Skokie, and the surrounding areas.