Cleveland Rideshare Accident Lawyer | Call (216) 931-7000

As an experienced Uber accident lawyer, Frank Piscitelli has spent decades representing victims of motor vehicle accidents, and extends his legal services to those injured in an Uber or Lyft car accident.

Rideshare cases present unique legal challenges because major rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, creating complex insurance disputes between the company’s policy and the driver’s personal auto insurance.

Frank understands the intricacies of these insurance policies and fights to make sure that victims receive the maximum compensation available for their injuries.

Rideshare accidents often result in significant injuries, leading to costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs.

Whether a victim was a Lyft/Uber passenger, driver, pedestrian, or another motorist, Frank knows how to hold the responsible parties accountable in a personal injury case.

Frank builds strong cases backed by detailed evidence, accident reconstruction experts, and aggressive negotiation strategies.

His experience handling serious auto accident claims allows him to take on Uber, Lyft, and insurance companies that attempt to minimize payouts.

Frank has secured substantial settlements and verdicts for clients injured in car accidents and other types of motor vehicle accidents.

He knows what makes a rideshare accident different from other car accidents, including how liability is determined and how insurance coverage applies at different stages of a ride.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in an Uber or Lyft car accident, The Piscitelli Law Firm is ready to fight for you.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer from The Piscitelli Law Firm?

At The Piscitelli Law Firm, we handle rideshare accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe legal fees if we win your case.

This allows injured victims to pursue compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages without worrying about out-of-pocket legal costs.

Uber and Lyft accident claims often involve complex insurance disputes, and having an experienced attorney at no upfront cost ensures you have the strongest legal representation possible.

By working on a contingency fee, we take on the financial risk, covering the costs of investigations, expert witnesses, and legal filings while focusing on securing the maximum compensation for you.

If we don’t win, you owe nothing.

This structure means that our legal team is fully invested in achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, contact The Piscitelli Law Firm today for a free consultation.

The moments after a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, especially for those who suffer serious injuries and are unable to take immediate action at the scene. W

hether you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, a rideshare driver, or another motorist, the steps you take following the crash can impact your ability to recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.

However, some victims may be too injured to document the accident, speak with witnesses, or collect evidence, making it even more important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

Rideshare accidents also introduce unique insurance challenges, as multiple parties may be involved, including the rideshare company, the driver’s personal auto insurance, and other at-fault motorists.

Determining which insurance policy applies depends on whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger, waiting for a ride request, or driving their vehicle for personal use.

Because these cases are more complex than standard car accidents, taking the right steps immediately after the crash can help protect your claim.

Steps to take after a rideshare accident in Ohio include:

1. Call 911 and Seek Medical Treatment – Ohio law requires you to report accidents involving injuries (ORC § 4509.06). Even if you feel fine, get evaluated for hidden injuries.
2. Obtain a Police Report – Law enforcement will document the scene and determine preliminary fault, which can be critical in comparative negligence claims.
3. Collect Driver and Rideshare Information – Get the rideshare driver’s contact details, their personal insurance information, and proof of active status on the app at the time of the accident.
4. Take Photos of the Accident Scene and Gather Witness Statements – Document vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Witnesses can help establish liability.
5. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft – Notify the rideshare company through the app to create an official accident record.
6. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Alone – Rideshare companies and insurers may try to limit payouts or shift blame. Let an attorney handle communications.
7. Preserve All Medical Records and Expenses – Keep track of hospital visits, prescriptions, therapy costs, and any lost wages due to the accident.
8. Consult an Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyer – A lawyer can determine which insurance policies apply, build a strong case, and fight for maximum compensation.

Because Ohio’s comparative negligence laws affect how compensation is awarded, insurance companies often try to assign blame to reduce payouts.

The Piscitelli Law Firm fights for rideshare accident victims, holding negligent parties accountable and securing the full compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Gathering Evidence for Rideshare Accident Cases

Strong evidence is essential to proving liability and securing compensation after a car crash involving a rideshare vehicle.

Because multiple parties—such as the rideshare driver, company, and other motorists—may be involved, gathering clear documentation of how the accident occurred can help establish fault.

Preserving evidence as soon as possible strengthens your claim and prevents insurance companies from disputing liability or minimizing your compensation.

Evidence in a rideshare accident claim may include:

• Police Report – An official record detailing how the accident occurred, statements from involved parties, and any citations issued.
• Photos and Videos – Images of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and road conditions at the scene.
• Witness Statements – Testimonies from bystanders who saw the car crash unfold.
• Rideshare App Records – Screenshots showing whether the driver was active on the Uber or Lyft app at the time of the accident.
• Dashcam or Surveillance Footage – Video recordings from traffic cameras, businesses, or nearby vehicles.
• Medical Records – Documentation of injuries, treatment plans, and long-term recovery needs.
• Insurance Information – Copies of rideshare company insurance policies and the driver’s personal auto insurance.
• Employment and Wage Records – Proof of lost wages if the accident impacted your ability to work.

Without proper evidence, insurance companies may dispute liability or offer inadequate settlements.

Damages in a Rideshare Accident Claim

In a rideshare accident claim, damages refer to the financial and personal losses suffered due to injuries caused by the crash.

Victims may recover compensation for medical costs, lost income, property damage, and other financial burdens caused by the accident.

Additionally, Ohio law allows victims to seek compensation for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and reduced quality of life.

The severity of injuries, impact on daily life, and long-term medical needs all play a role in determining the value of a claim.

Damages in a rideshare accident claim may include:

• Medical Costs – Covers hospitalization, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Future Medical Expenses – Compensation for long-term treatments, therapy, and follow-up procedures.
• Lost Wages – Payment for missed workdays, reduced earning capacity, or permanent disability.
• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, discomfort, and ongoing medical hardships.
• Emotional Distress – Covers anxiety, PTSD, depression, and psychological trauma caused by the accident.
• Property Damage – Repairs or replacement costs for your vehicle or other personal property damaged in the crash.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life – Compensation for activities, hobbies, or daily routines you can no longer engage in due to injuries.
• Permanent Disfigurement or Disability – Additional damages for life-altering injuries, amputations, or severe scarring.
• Punitive Damages – Awarded in cases where reckless or intentional misconduct contributed to the accident.

Determining the full extent of damages is critical in obtaining fair compensation from insurance companies, rideshare corporations, and at-fault parties.

The Piscitelli Law Firm fights aggressively to maximize recovery for rideshare accident victims—contact us today for a free consultation.

In Ohio, rideshare accident claims are governed by a mix of personal injury laws, rideshare insurance policies, and comparative negligence rules.

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2315.33, the state follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning an injured party can recover damages as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Ohio is two years (ORC § 2305.10), meaning victims must file a claim within this period or risk losing their right to compensation.

Uber and Lyft accidents involve complex insurance structures, with different coverage limits depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

We will explain this in the subsequent section below.

Because liability may be disputed between the rideshare driver, Uber or Lyft, and other motorists, a skilled attorney is essential in gathering evidence, reviewing app data, and analyzing insurance policies to ensure that the correct party is held accountable.

A lawyer will also protect victims from insurance adjusters who attempt to shift blame or undervalue claims, particularly under Ohio’s modified comparative negligence system.

Steps in the Legal Process for a Rideshare Accident Claim in Ohio include:

1. Consult a Rideshare Accident Attorney – An experienced lawyer can assess who is liable, what insurance coverage applies, and how to pursue compensation.
2. Liability Determination – Establish whether the Uber or Lyft driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride, or actively transporting a passenger to determine which insurance policies apply.
3. Investigation and Evidence Collection – Gather rideshare app data, dash cam footage, police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong claim.
4. File an Insurance Claim – Submit a claim to Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider, the driver’s personal auto insurance, or another at-fault party’s insurer.
5. Settlement Negotiations – Your lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance companies to fight for the maximum compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
6. File a Lawsuit (If Necessary) – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit within Ohio’s two-year statute of limitations and represent you in court.
7. Proceed to Trial (If Needed) – If the case goes to trial, your lawyer will present evidence, call expert witnesses, and argue for full compensation in court.

Because rideshare accident claims involve multiple policies, overlapping liability, and insurance disputes, working with an experienced legal team is critical.

Insurance Coverage in Rideshare Accidents Explained

Accidents involving Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services present unique insurance challenges that differ from standard car accidents.

In Ohio, rideshare drivers are required to carry different levels of liability coverage based on their activity at the time of the crash.

Whether an injured party is a passenger, another motorist, a pedestrian, or even the rideshare driver themselves, determining which insurance policy applies is a critical step in securing compensation.

Unlike traditional auto insurance claims, where a driver’s personal insurance policies are the primary source of coverage, rideshare companies provide additional liability protection under certain conditions.

However, disputes frequently arise between personal auto insurance carriers, rideshare insurance providers, and other at-fault parties regarding which policy is responsible for covering damages.

Consulting with experienced legal counsel can help accident victims understand their rights in these situations.

The amount of coverage available in a rideshare accident depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash, outlined below.

Driver is Offline (Not Logged Into the App)

If the driver is using their vehicle for personal reasons and not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, their own insurance applies.

Uber and Lyft provide no coverage in this scenario, meaning all claims must be directed to the driver’s personal insurance policies.

Driver is Online But Waiting for a Ride Request

If the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, limited third-party liability coverage applies under Ohio law.

However, this liability coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury
• $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 for property damage

Driver Has Accepted a Ride & Is En Route to Pick Up a Passenger

Once a rideshare driver accepts a trip, Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies increase significantly.

At this stage, Uber and Lyft assume primary responsibility for claims, and the rideshare driver’s personal insurance does not apply:

• $1 million in liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage may apply if another driver causes the accident but lacks adequate insurance.

Passenger is in the Vehicle & the Ride is in Progress

While an Uber or Lyft ride is actively in progress, the rideshare company’s full $1 million liability coverage remains in effect.

This coverage applies to passengers, other motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, or anyone injured due to the rideshare vehicle’s actions.

Additional uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply in cases where another at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.

Why Insurance Disputes Arise in Rideshare Accident Claims

Although rideshare companies offer significant liability coverage, securing compensation is rarely straightforward.

Insurance companies often attempt to:

• Deny coverage by disputing whether the driver was logged into the app.
• Argue that another party, such as another driver or pedestrian, was partially at fault to reduce payouts.
• Offer quick, low settlements that fail to cover the full extent of injuries, medical bills, and lost wages.

Because rideshare accident claims involve multiple policies and insurance carriers, injured victims often face delays, disputes, and underpaid claims.

Working with experienced legal counsel can help determine which policies apply, challenge unfair denials, and secure full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Victims of rideshare accidents may be eligible to file a claim for compensation if they suffered injuries, financial losses, or other damages due to another party’s negligence.

Whether you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, a rideshare driver, another motorist, or even a pedestrian, Ohio law allows accident victims to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

However, determining who is liable and which insurance policy applies can be complicated due to the multi-layered insurance coverage of rideshare companies.

To qualify for a claim, you must show that another party’s negligence contributed to the accident.

This could include:

• A rideshare driver’s reckless or distracted driving
• An Uber or Lyft driver being hit by another negligent motorist
• A passenger being injured in a crash involving a rideshare vehicle
• A pedestrian being struck by an Uber or Lyft driver
• Improper rideshare vehicle maintenance leading to mechanical failure

Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence rule (ORC § 2315.33), meaning you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident.

If the rideshare driver was logged into the app at the time of the crash, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy may provide coverage, depending on whether a ride was in progress.

If the driver was offline, their personal auto insurance policy would be responsible for damages.

Determining who is responsible in a rideshare accident claim requires a detailed legal analysis.

Rideshare accident claims can be complex, involving multiple insurance policies, corporate legal teams, and disputed liability.

Victims often struggle to recover full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress while pursuing justice through the legal system and dealing with insurance companies that prioritize their bottom line.

At The Piscitelli Law Firm, we fight for rideshare accident victims, making sure that all responsible parties—whether Uber, Lyft, the rideshare driver, or another negligent motorist—are held accountable.

With years of experience handling motor vehicle accidents and personal injury claims, we understand what it takes to build a strong case.

We take on complex rideshare cases so that victims can focus on their recovery without the added stress of legal battles.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Lyft or Uber accident, don’t fight the insurance companies alone.

Contact The Piscitelli Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

You can also use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for a rideshare accident claim instantly.