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Rideshare companies are supposed to make the roads a safer place. Even though Ubers and Lyfts help keep impaired drivers off the road, they’re not infallible themselves. Accidents can happen at any time, even when you’re not in your own vehicle. It’s important to be prepared if you find yourself in this situation, so you understand what to do if you’re injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Lafayette.
Navigating an accident claim can be difficult enough when you’re the driver involved in the crash. As an injured passenger, you have to figure out who to hold liable and how you can recover the compensation you’re rightfully owed.
Louisiana’s rideshare accident laws cover a lot of ground and involve strict time limits. A Louisiana personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the claims process based on the facts of your case.
Rideshare Accidents in Louisiana
It’s important to stay vigilant on the road, even when you’re not in the driver’s seat. Any number of incidents can result in a rideshare accident in Louisiana. Some common causes of these types of accidents can include:
- Driver negligence or intentional misconduct
- Government entities in charge of city infrastructure
- Hazards on the road and poor weather conditions
- Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI)
- Passenger actions that distract the driver
- Pedestrians and bicyclists
Recently, in March 2026, a rideshare driver was apprehended for killing a 21-year-old woman while driving intoxicated along I-10 in Baptist Parish. This is just one of many instances that can occur on the road.
Some situations can involve negligent third parties, too. Regardless, you must figure out how to protect yourself. By understanding your rights and legal options under Louisiana’s rideshare accident laws, you can be prepared no matter what situation you find yourself in on the road.
Here’s What Happens If You’re Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Lafayette
Uber has consistently reported a 99.9 percent rate of safe trips in recent years. Similarly, Lyft reports that 99.9998 percent of its trips are completed without incident.
That said, Lyft recently reported 111 motor vehicle fatalities over two years. Rideshare accidents can and do happen.
It’s important to understand your rights and legal options if you’re involved in a rideshare accident in an Uber or Lyft. For starters, it’s helpful to follow these steps as closely as possible:
- Get everyone out of immediate danger
- Contact local law enforcement
- Document the scene and your injuries
- Exchange information with all involved parties
- Give a statement to the police
- Request a copy of the report
- Talk to witnesses
- Seek medical attention, immediately if necessary
- Hire a rideshare accident lawyer
Every case is different, but these steps can help keep you on the right track when the time comes to file your claim.
FAQs
How Long Do Rideshare Accident Claims Take in Lafayette?
How long rideshare accident claims take in Lafayette depends mostly on whether or not you settle out of court. Negotiations and other alternative resolutions are usually more efficient than going to court for a rideshare accident case.
That said, even these processes can take time. It’s imperative that you follow the correct steps and file everything in a timely manner in order to avoid delays and issues down the road.
How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in Lafayette?
How long you have to file a rideshare accident claim in Lafayette is typically two years from the date of the accident. In the event the victim in a rideshare accident succumbs to their injuries, an eligible surviving family member can open a wrongful death case instead.
These types of claims typically have different statutes of limitations. There are also different rules for filing against government entities. A rideshare accident lawyer can help you stay on top of important deadlines.
What Do I Do if I’m Not Happy With an Insurance Adjuster’s Settlement Offer in a Lafayette Rideshare Accident Case?
If you’re not happy with an insurance adjuster’s settlement offer in a Lafayette rideshare accident case, speak with an attorney. Negotiations in car accident cases are often challenging and sometimes require you to make multiple counteroffers before reaching a reasonable resolution.
If you’re unable to agree at all, you can attempt mediation or arbitration. In the end, you can take matters to court if nothing else is working.
What Damages Are Recoverable Through a Lafayette Rideshare Accident Claim?
What damages are recoverable through a Lafayette rideshare accident claim depends on the nature of your accident. Under Louisiana’s personal injury laws, you can file to recover economic and non-economic damages if you’re injured in a traffic accident.
Recoverable damages can include:
- Disability
- Loss of quality of life
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Medical expenses
- Out-of-pocket costs
- Pain and suffering
- Property damages
Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer to Help You Settle Your Case
A Lafayette personal injury lawyer from Blake Jones Law Firm, LLC can advocate for you in and out of the courtroom.
Our team is backed by 50+ years of experience and a dedicated support staff that is ready to help you recover in every way that matters. Our firm has built a great reputation amongst our clients and peers alike. We are:
- AV-Preeminent® through Martindale®
- Lawyers of Distinction
- On the National Board of Trial Advocacy
- Rated by Super Lawyers®
- Recognized by Best Lawyers
- Top 10 Trucking Trial Lawyers*
Moreover, our team has recovered millions for those in need through both settlements and awards over the years.** We’re familiar with the process of negotiating with insurance companies as well as litigation through the Lafayette City Court or 15th Judicial District Court in Lafayette Parish.
If you’re ready to talk to a lawyer about your recovery options, Blake Jones Law Firm, LLC is the firm to call. Contact us to schedule an initial appointment with a member of the team today and come see us at our office. We’re conveniently located near I-10 and US-90 for our clients throughout southern Louisiana.
*Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
**Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits.
