Rideshare Accident Attorney
Serving Clients Across Washington State
Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services have changed the way people get around Washington State, offering convenience and affordability with just a few taps on a smartphone. However, when a rideshare vehicle is involved in an accident, victims often find themselves facing complex insurance issues, multiple parties who may share liability, and confusing legal procedures.
At Becker Franklin Rovang, our experienced Washington rideshare accident attorneys are here to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether you were a passenger, a rideshare driver, or struck by a rideshare vehicle, we will help you navigate the legal process from start to finish so you can focus on recovery.
Contact us today at (360) 800-3009 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can support your path to recovery.
Why Rideshare Accident Claims Are More Complicated
Rideshare accidents are not like typical car crashes. Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which means the companies frequently attempt to limit their liability. Coverage may shift depending on whether:
- The driver was offline or using the app for personal driving.
- The driver was logged into the app but had not yet accepted a ride.
- The driver was en route to pick up a passenger or transporting one at the time of the crash.
Each of these scenarios triggers different insurance policies, and the rideshare company’s $1 million liability coverage only applies under certain conditions. Our team carefully reviews the driver’s app status, police reports, and insurance coverage to determine which policies apply and maximize your claim.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare drivers face unique challenges that can increase the risk of accidents, including:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers must frequently check their apps for ride requests, navigation, and passenger information.
- Fatigue: Many drivers work long hours or drive late at night, leading to drowsy driving.
- Unfamiliar Routes: Navigating new neighborhoods can result in sudden stops, wrong turns, or unsafe lane changes.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Drivers may rush to complete rides and maximize earnings.
- Other Drivers’ Negligence: Even if the rideshare driver was careful, another negligent driver can cause a collision.
When you hire Becker Franklin Rovang, we investigate the root cause of the crash to determine liability and hold every responsible party accountable.
Who May Be Liable in a Washington Rideshare Accident
Several parties could share legal responsibility for a rideshare accident, including:
- The rideshare driver (for negligent driving)
- Uber or Lyft (if their insurance policy applies)
- Another motorist involved in the collision
- Vehicle manufacturers (if a defect contributed to the accident)
- Government entities (if dangerous road conditions played a role)
Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to identify every potential source of compensation. This approach helps ensure you receive the maximum recovery available under Washington’s comparative fault laws, which allow for compensation even if you were partially at fault.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
The moments after a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Following these steps can help protect your health and legal claim:
- Check for Injuries & Call 911: Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
- Report the Accident to Police: A police report is crucial for proving liability.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Information: Get contact details for drivers, passengers, witnesses, and insurance companies.
- Report the Crash to Uber or Lyft: Use the in-app reporting feature but keep details factual.
- Seek Medical Evaluation: Some injuries may not appear for hours or days.
- Contact a Lawyer Quickly: Early legal guidance ensures evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.
Compensation Available to Rideshare Accident Victims
Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical Bills: Emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future care.
- Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery, plus reduced earning capacity for long-term injuries.
- Property Damage: Vehicle repairs or replacement.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
- Wrongful Death Damages: Funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support for families who lost loved ones.
Our team calculates both current and future losses to pursue full and fair compensation.
How Becker Franklin Rovang Can Help
Our rideshare accident attorneys provide comprehensive legal support at every stage of your claim. We will:
- Investigate your accident and gather evidence, including rideshare app data and dashcam footage.
- Handle all communications with insurance companies to protect you from lowball offers.
- Work with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and financial specialists to build a strong case.
- Negotiate for a fair settlement or take your case to trial if necessary.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you.
Statute of Limitations in Washington
In Washington State, you generally have three years from the date of the rideshare accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation. When government entities are involved (for example, if poor road design contributed to the accident), you may need to file a special notice of claim within a shorter time frame. Our attorneys ensure that every deadline is met to preserve your right to recovery.
Contact Becker Franklin Rovang Today
After a rideshare accident, you deserve a legal team that will fight for your rights while giving you the space to focus on healing. At Becker Franklin Rovang, we combine decades of experience with a client-centered approach, guiding Washington residents through even the most complex rideshare accident claims.
Call us today to schedule your free consultation and let us help you pursue justice and the compensation you deserve.
Contact Becker Franklin Rovang at (360) 800-3009 or fill out our online form to get started.
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“Steve Franklin was caring and extremely helpful during the traumatic time.”
- KCI never left a review after the incredible services this law firm provided me. I was in a car accident. Steve Franklin was caring and extremely helpful during the traumatic time. I was new to living in the area and felt so comfortable and supported by him. Five years later…. They still send me birthday cards. I know, I know…. It may seem silly, but this is such a sweet gesture! 10/10 Recommend.
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“The team I got to work with was fantastic!”
- Stephanie W.The team I got to work with was fantastic! They are very responsive, kind, and understanding. I was lucky enough to get their help for a complicated situation and am very glad I found them and chose to work with them on my case. Highly recommend!
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“Set realistic expectations and delivered.”
The whole team helped resolve my suit as expeditiously as possible with an ultimately acceptable outcome. Good communication and wonderful people to work with, set realistic expectations and delivered. 10/10 would not advise getting in a car wreck, but if you do these are the people to call!- Colin S. -
“They handled my case so meticulously and didn’t miss a thing!”
I worked with Steve for over a year and him and his team are absolutely amazing! They handled my case so meticulously and didn’t miss a thing! When he explained things to me he always broke it down so I understood exactly what was happening and of- Lauren R.
our case results Our Clients Always Come First
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$4,700,000 Recovery - Negligence
Recovery for disabled man neglected in Kitsap County Jail who suffered brain damage and quadriplegia.
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$3,500,000 Pedestrians / Premises Liability
Our clients, a father and toddler son, were hit by a Park’s Department vehicle in Seattle while walking to the restroom. Father sustained an arm fracture and fractured vertebrae, toddler sustained a head injury. Settlement obtained after litigation.
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$2,025,000 Pedestrian Collision
Client was catastrophically injured whenstruck by a delivery driver in Port Orchard while attempting to cross the street. Insurance company for the driver blamed our client for stepping out into the roadway in the dark and did not take any responsibility. After litigation the matter was settled before trial.
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$1,500,000 Motor Vehicle Collision
Our client was a passenger on a shuttle bus in Kitsap County. The shuttle was struck by a drunk driver. Client sustained significant spinal injuries.
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$1,300,000 Pedestrian Collision
Our client, in her 60’s, was hit by vehicle while crossing a street in Kitsap County. Extensive injuries, liability was disputed.
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$1,050,000 Motor Vehicle Collision
Clients, husband and wife, were rear- ended by an RV while waiting in line for the ferry in Edmonds. Wife had prior lumbar spine issues that were severely aggravated requiring surgery. Defense argued that the incident did not aggravate the injuries. Policy limits obtained before trial.
