Rideshare Accident Lawyer

The high cost of transportation has led to many choosing ridesharing options for their daily commute. Services such as Uber and Lyft are increasing their territories, and many people now rely on them to get around. So it’s no surprise that the number of ridesharing accidents is rising as a result.

These types of incidents come with their own set of problems, many of which will require rideshare accident attorneys to resolve. If you regularly use a ridesharing service, here are a few things you should know.

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A car that has been involved in an auto accident.

Fatigued Drivers: A Common Cause of Ridesharing Accidents

Uber, Lyft, and vanpooling services are often part of what is known as the “gig economy.” In other words, drivers are free agents who may work another job in addition to freelancing for ridesharing companies. Many accidents result from tired, overworked drivers who are merely trying to earn a few extra dollars.

Drivers may also feel pressure from the ridesharing companies themselves. That’s because the more their operators earn, the more money the company makes. You don’t need an experienced ridesharing accident lawyer to know that this can naturally increase the odds of an accident.

Problem with Free-Agent Drivers

With ridesharing services, there is naturally less oversight. Following an accident, there is no need to explain things to the boss or worry about being grounded. As such, drivers may take chances that they wouldn’t ordinarily choose if working for a traditional taxi company leading to accidents due to:

- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Operating under the influence
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Pulling out in front of other vehicles

Accidents due to Mechanical Failures

Uber and Lyft both require applicants to have their vehicles inspected before they can download their apps and begin making money. Drivers must then submit to an annual inspection to continue working. In the interim, many fail to perform the required maintenance on their vehicles. Some do not have enough time between all of their other responsibilities, while others want to keep as much of their earnings as possible.

Knowing whether or not an accident was due to faulty maintenance can be tricky. Rideshare accident lawyer may ask for maintenance reports or hire an accident reconstruction specialist to help them make this determination.

Problems with Insurance Companies

As if sustaining an injury wasn’t bad enough, many victims are faced with the daunting task of determining who should pay. With ridesharing companies, there are typically several insurance companies in play. First is the driver’s automobile policy, which often provides insufficient coverage for medical payments.

Many operators are supposed to have an additional rider to cover them in the event of a ridesharing accident. This policy too may be insufficient-or in many cases, non-existent.

The ridesharing company itself also has its own insurance company for ridesharing accident attorney to deal with separately. Of course, this company will often try to “pass the buck,” leaving people running in circles while trying to obtain relief.

Not all accidents are caused by ridesharing drivers. When the incident is someone else’s fault, that person’s insurance company may also try to defer payment. It’s often easier to point the finger at a hired driver than it is to pay up. Accordingly, a Lyft accident lawyer is commonly used not only to help passengers recover damages but to defend workers who are being railroaded by the system.

Possible Compensation

The goal behind any personal injury lawsuit is to restore the victim to the same state he or she was in before the accident. You could be entitled to compensation for medical bills as well as for pain and suffering. Courts will also take into account any loss of earnings or future earning potential.

Catastrophic accidents sometimes call for punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded above and beyond actual losses and serve as a type of “punishment” for wrongdoing. Their intended purpose is to deter others from performing the same kind of reckless acts in the future.

When to Visit a Ridesharing Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a ridesharing accident, the first thing you should do is to seek medical attention. Following that, preserve as much evidence as possible including eyewitness information if available. Next, contact an Uber accident lawyer if any of the following things occur:

More than one insurance company has denied your claim

An Uber or Lyft driver suddenly becomes unavailable when it is time to take down an official statement

You discover that your rideshare driver was uninsured or had an inadequate policy

Any of the drivers involved was cited or placed under arrest as a result of the accident

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Rideshare Accident- Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident?

After a rideshare accident, it's crucial to prioritize safety and follow these steps:

- Ensure everyone's safety and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Call the police to report the accident.
- Exchange information with the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses.
- Document the accident scene with photos and notes.
- Notify your rideshare company (Uber, Lyft) about the accident.
- Do not admit fault or discuss the accident extensively with others.
- Seek legal advice from a rideshare accident attorney

How do I determine liability in a rideshare accident case?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident case can be complex. Liability can rest with the rideshare driver, another driver, or a combination of both. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances, collect evidence, and assess factors such as negligence, traffic laws, and insurance policies to establish liability.

What evidence should I collect after a rideshare accident?

Collecting evidence is crucial for your case. You should gather:

- Police report
- Witness statements
- Photos of the accident scene and damages
- Medical records
- Rideshare company records
- Communication records with the rideshare driver and company
- Any available video footage

How are damages calculated in a rideshare accident case?

Damages in a rideshare accident case include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The calculation depends on the extent of your injuries, liability, and various factors. A rideshare accident attorney can help you assess and calculate your damages accurately.

Can I file a lawsuit against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company?

Yes, in some cases, you can file a lawsuit against both the rideshare driver and the rideshare company. Liability depends on the driver's actions and the rideshare company's policies. Your attorney will determine the appropriate parties to sue based on the circumstances of the accident.

What should I ask a potential Lyft accident lawyer during a consultation?

During a consultation with a Lyft accident lawyer, ask questions like:

- How experienced are you in handling rideshare accident cases?
- What is your fee structure, and do you work on a contingency basis?
- Can you provide references or case examples?
- How do you plan to approach my specific case?
- What is the expected timeline for my case?

How do I prove liability in a Lyft accident case?

To prove liability in a Lyft accident case, your attorney will use evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, photos, and medical records. They'll also investigate the driver's actions, adherence to traffic laws, and any company policies that may be relevant.

What should I do if the Lyft or Uber driver was uninsured?

If the Lyft or Uber driver was uninsured, you may still have options for compensation. Both rideshare companies typically have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect passengers. Additionally, your own insurance policy may provide coverage for such situations. Consult with a rideshare accident attorney to explore your options.

Wondering if You Were Owed Money From Your Accident?

Are you unsure if you have a case or not? Even if the insurance companies tell you you don’t have a case, if we think that you do, we will fight to make sure you have medical attention and the compensation you deserve.

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