Rideshare Accident
Lawyer

About Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers

Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers is a trusted name in Toronto’s legal community, with a legacy spanning over 45 years. Founded by Hy Bergel, a pioneer in personal injury law, our firm has evolved into a multi-generational practice dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims.

Our team comprises experienced personal injury lawyers, including partners Andrew and Ilan Bergel, who share their father’s passion for justice and client-centered advocacy. We’ve successfully represented countless individuals in a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, slip and falls, and of course, rideshare accidents involving Uber and Lyft.

At Bergel Magence, we’re more than just lawyers; we’re a family committed to treating our clients like family. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that accidents can take, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and expertise. Our goal is not just to win your case, but to help you rebuild your life and move forward with confidence.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

Being involved in a rideshare accident, whether as an Uber driver or passenger, or in a Lyft vehicle, can be a disorienting experience. Knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in your financial recovery and ensure you receive rightful compensation.

1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety are paramount. If you’ve sustained any injuries, even minor ones, seek immediate medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or spinal cord trauma, may not manifest symptoms immediately. Documenting your injuries with a medical professional is crucial for your personal injury claim.

2. Gather Information

Collect as much information as possible at the scene of the accident. This includes:

• Contact information of the rideshare driver, other involved parties, and any witnesses.
• Insurance information for all drivers involved.
• Details about the accident, including the date, time, location, and a description of what happened.
• Photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.

3. Report the Accident

Notify both the rideshare company (Uber or Lyft) and your own insurance company about the accident. It’s essential to report the accident promptly, as there may be a statute of limitations on filing a claim.

4. Consult with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare accident cases can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the rideshare company, drivers, and insurance companies. An experienced attorney specializing in rideshare accidents can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue full compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

5. Understand Your Rights

As a rideshare passenger or driver, you have the right to seek financial compensation for your losses. This includes medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and, in the tragic event of a wrongful death, funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

6. Don’t Delay Seeking Legal Assistance

Time is of the essence when it comes to rideshare accident claims. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories can fade, and insurance companies may try to minimize your payout. Contacting a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible ensures that your rights are protected and your claim is pursued aggressively from the outset.

Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers is here to provide expert legal advice and representation. We offer a free initial consultation to assess your case and discuss your options. Our legal team will guide you through every step of the process, fighting for your rightful compensation so you can focus on your recovery. Contact our firm today and take the first step towards getting your life back on track.

How Rideshare Insurance Works in Ontario

Understanding how rideshare insurance works in Ontario is crucial if you’ve been involved in an Uber accident or Lyft accident. The insurance coverage applicable to your situation depends on the specific phase of the ride at the time of the crash.

• App Off: If the rideshare app is off and no ride request has been accepted, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy typically applies.
• App On, Awaiting Ride Request: Once the app is on, but before a ride request is accepted, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage. This coverage usually has lower limits than when a ride is in progress.
• Ride Accepted to Passenger Pick-Up: During this phase, the rideshare company’s insurance policy provides higher liability coverage to protect both the driver and passengers.
• Trip in Progress: While the ride is ongoing, the rideshare company’s insurance policy offers the highest level of coverage for bodily injury and property damage.

However, navigating these insurance policies can be complex, and disputes may arise regarding liability coverage and insurance settlements. That’s where Bergel Magence comes in. Our law firm has extensive experience handling rideshare accident claims and can help you understand your rights and options. We’ll work to ensure you receive the full extent of your injuries and other losses.

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free case evaluation. Our legal team will guide you through the insurance claim process, advocate for your interests, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Remember, time is of the essence, so don’t delay in seeking legal assistance.

Filing a Rideshare Accident Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide

Filing a rideshare accident claim can be a complicated process, especially when dealing with multiple parties and insurance companies. However, with the right guidance and legal assistance, you can navigate this process smoothly and secure the compensation you deserve.

Step 1: Gather Evidence

As soon as possible after the accident, collect all relevant information, including:

• Police reports
• Medical records
• Photos and videos of the accident scene
• Witness statements
• Insurance information of all parties involved
• Rideshare trip details (date, time, location)

Step 2: Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident, even if you believe the rideshare company’s insurance will cover your damages. Your insurer may need to be involved in the claims process.

Step 3: Contact the Rideshare Company

Report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app or website. Provide them with all the information you’ve gathered.

Step 4: Consult with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

An experienced rideshare accident lawyer can guide you through the entire claims process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. They can also help you determine liability and ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses.

Step 5: File Your Claim

With the help of your lawyer, you’ll file a claim with the appropriate insurance company (either the rideshare company’s insurer or your own, depending on the circumstances). This will involve submitting all the documentation you’ve gathered and providing a detailed account of the accident.

Step 6: Negotiation and Settlement

Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement that covers all your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend taking your case to court.

At Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the complexities of rideshare accident claims. We’ll handle all the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.

What to Expect During the Legal Process

Navigating the legal process after a rideshare accident can seem daunting, but understanding the typical stages can help alleviate anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions. At Bergel Magence, we strive to make this process as smooth and transparent as possible.

1. Initial Consultation: Your journey with us begins with a free initial consultation. During this meeting, we’ll discuss the specifics of your accident, assess the strength of your case, and outline your legal options. We’ll answer any questions you have and explain how we can help you pursue rightful compensation.
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Once you’ve retained our services, we’ll launch a comprehensive investigation into your accident. This involves gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video footage. We may also consult with accident reconstruction experts if necessary.
3. Demand Letter and Negotiation: Armed with the evidence we’ve gathered, we’ll prepare a demand letter outlining your damages and the compensation you seek. We’ll then negotiate with the insurance companies involved to reach a fair settlement. Our experienced negotiators are skilled at maximizing your compensation while minimizing the stress and time involved.
4. Litigation (If Necessary): While most rideshare accident claims are resolved through negotiation, some cases may require litigation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we’re prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights before a judge and jury.
5. Settlement or Trial: The ultimate goal of the legal process is to secure the compensation you deserve. This may come in the form of a settlement agreement with the insurance company or a verdict from a court trial. Our team will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Throughout the legal process, we’ll keep you informed of any developments and consult with you at every decision point. We believe in open communication and transparency, empowering you to take an active role in your case. Our priority is to alleviate your stress and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

Common Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims

While rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation, they’ve also introduced unique challenges when accidents occur. These complexities can make it difficult for victims to receive the full compensation they deserve.

Determining Liability

Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and potentially other motorists. Determining who is liable for the accident can be complex, requiring a thorough investigation and legal expertise.

Insurance Coverage Issues

Rideshare insurance policies can be convoluted and vary depending on the stage of the ride (app off, waiting for a ride, en route to pick up a passenger, or during a trip). Disputes may arise between the rideshare company’s insurance and the driver’s personal insurance, leading to delays and potential denials of claims.

Independent Contractor Status

Rideshare drivers are typically classified as independent contractors, not employees of the rideshare company. This classification can make it difficult to hold the company responsible for the driver’s actions, adding another layer of complexity to the claims process.

Proving Damages

Calculating the full extent of damages in a rideshare accident can be challenging. In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, victims may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Proving these non-economic damages requires a strong legal strategy and persuasive evidence.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to minimize payouts. They may employ various tactics to undervalue or deny your claim, such as disputing liability, downplaying your injuries, or delaying the process. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can level the playing field and ensure your rights are protected.

At Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand these challenges and have a proven track record of overcoming them. Our team of skilled attorneys has the knowledge and resources to investigate your accident thoroughly, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t let these challenges discourage you. 

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Compensation and Settlements for Rideshare Accidents

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your losses.Understanding the types of compensation available and the factors that influence settlement amounts can help you navigate the claims process and secure the financial recovery you deserve.

Types of Compensation:

• Medical Expenses: This includes costs for ambulance services, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and any future medical care related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for your lost income, both current and future. This may also include loss of earning capacity if your injuries result in a permanent disability.
• Pain and Suffering: This non-economic damage covers the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the accident. It can be difficult to quantify, but an experienced lawyer can help you assess the value of your pain and suffering.
• Other Damages: Depending on the circumstances, you may also be entitled to compensation for property damage,out-of-pocket expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in the tragic event of a wrongful death, funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

Factors Affecting Settlement Amounts:

• Severity of Injuries: The extent of your injuries is a major factor in determining your settlement amount. More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation.
• Liability: The degree of fault of each party involved in the accident will impact the compensation you receive. If you share some fault, your settlement may be reduced proportionally.
• Insurance Coverage: The available insurance coverage, both from the rideshare company and your own insurance, will play a significant role in the settlement amount.
• Legal Representation: Having an experienced rideshare accident lawyer on your side can significantly increase your chances of securing a fair and just settlement.

At Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the complexities of rideshare accident claims and the various factors that influence compensation. Our team of skilled negotiators will work tirelessly to maximize your settlement and ensure your financial recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Need Expert Legal Help?

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Toronto, don’t hesitate to contact Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers. We’re here to help you through this challenging time and secure the compensation you deserve.