MENU
Call Now For A Free Consultation
Toll Free: (866) 907-1145
Local: (919) 833-3370
Toll Free: (866) 907-1145 | Local: (919) 833-3370
Toll Free: (866) 907-1145
Local: (919) 833-3370
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel, offering convenience at the tap of a screen. However, with the rise of these services comes the increased risk of accidents. If you've been involved in a rideshare accident, you're not alone, and you have rights. At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A., we're committed to helping you navigate the complexities of rideshare accident claims.
At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A., we understand that navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be confusing and stressful. A Rideshare Accident Lawyer is a legal professional who focuses on cases involving accidents that occur with ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft.
These types of lawyers are well-versed in the unique laws and insurance policies that apply to rideshare companies and their drivers. Since rideshare drivers are typically classified as independent contractors rather than employees, the legalities surrounding liability and insurance coverage can be complex.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident, it's crucial to consult with a lawyer who has specific experience in this area. Contact us for a free consultation, and let us help you understand your rights and the next steps in your case.
Rideshare accidents differ from regular car accidents in several key ways, primarily due to the nature of the ridesharing service and the legal complexities involved. Here's what makes a rideshare accident unique:
Rideshare drivers are covered by their personal car insurance policy and also by an insurance policy provided by the rideshare company. The coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident (whether they were logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger).
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be more complicated. Liability may fall on the rideshare driver, the company, or a combination of both, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the driver's status within the rideshare app at the time of the incident.
Ridesharing is a commercial activity, which means there are different regulations and laws that may apply, compared to a private individual who is simply driving their personal vehicle.
Rideshare companies have specific terms of service and operational policies that can affect a legal claim. A lawyer must be familiar with these policies to navigate a client's case effectively.
Rideshare companies are subject to state and local regulations that can impact a personal injury claim. These regulations can vary widely from one location to another.
Often, rideshare companies will aggressively defend against claims to protect their interests. This can lead to more complex litigation, requiring a lawyer with specific experience in rideshare cases.
Rideshare accidents may involve unique forms of evidence such as app data, GPS records, and ride logs, which can provide critical information about the circumstances leading up to the accident.
At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A., we have the expertise to navigate these complexities and work towards securing fair compensation for those injured in rideshare accidents. If you've been involved in such an accident, it's important to seek legal counsel that understands these distinctions and can advocate effectively on your behalf.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex due to the multiple parties involved and the varying circumstances under which the accident may occur. Here are the general scenarios and the potential liable parties:
If a rideshare driver is not logged into the rideshare app and is driving for personal reasons when an accident occurs, their personal auto insurance is typically responsible for covering the damages, just as in any private car accident.
If the rideshare driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, the rideshare company's contingent liability coverage may apply. This coverage is secondary to the driver’s personal insurance and may cover damages if the personal insurance is not sufficient.
Once a driver has accepted a trip and is en route to pick up a passenger, or when a passenger is in the vehicle, the rideshare company's commercial insurance policy typically becomes the primary coverage. This policy is generally much larger than an individual driver's personal policy and is designed to cover liabilities that occur during the rideshare service.
If another driver or an external factor is responsible for the accident, such as a vehicle defect or poor road conditions, then that driver or the entity responsible for the road or vehicle may be liable.
In some situations, liability may be shared among multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers or entities.
There may also be cases where the rideshare company itself is liable due to reasons such as negligent hiring practices or failure to properly maintain their digital platforms in a way that ensures safety.
If you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident, either as a passenger, a rideshare driver, or another party, there are several important steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
The first priority is to check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance.
If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move to a safe location to avoid any further accidents or injuries.
Even if the accident is minor, it's important to call the police. A police report can be a valuable piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Collect the names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved in the accident, including the rideshare driver and any other drivers. Take note of the make and model of the vehicles, license plate numbers, and the exact location of the accident.
Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, any visible damage, traffic signs, and road conditions. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.
Use the rideshare app to report the accident. Both Uber and Lyft have in-app features that allow you to report an accident directly.
Even if you do not think you are injured, it is wise to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
Avoid discussing the accident details or admitting fault to other drivers, witnesses, or insurance adjusters at the scene.
Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible.
Before making any statements to insurance adjusters or signing any documents, consult with a lawyer who specializes in rideshare accidents. They can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.
Keep all records related to the accident, including medical bills, a copy of the police report, and any correspondence with the rideshare company or insurance providers.
At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A., we understand the complexities involved in rideshare accidents and are prepared to help you navigate the aftermath. If you've been involved in a rideshare accident, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options
Rideshare accidents, like any vehicle collisions, can result in a range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some common injuries that passengers, drivers, or others involved might sustain in a rideshare accident include:
It's important to note that some injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident, and symptoms can appear days or even weeks later. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention after being involved in a rideshare accident, even if you feel fine initially.
If you've sustained injuries in a rideshare accident, it's also important to consult with a specialized rideshare accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages. At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A., we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to those injured in rideshare accidents. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.
The aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. Our dedicated team is here to offer the support and legal expertise you need to move forward.
Contact The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A. today for a free consultation. Let us take the wheel in fighting for your rights while you focus on recovery.
Ensure your safety and the safety of others, seek medical attention, contact law enforcement to file a report, gather information from all parties involved, take photos of the scene, and report the accident to the rideshare company. It's also advised to contact a rideshare accident lawyer to discuss your case.
Liability can be complex in rideshare accidents. It could be the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, another involved driver, or a combination of parties. Liability often depends on the driver’s status with the rideshare app at the time of the accident.
It may be possible to sue the rideshare company if the accident occurred while the rideshare app was in use and the company's policies or negligence contributed to the accident. However, these cases are complex and require professional legal analysis.
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The exact compensation will depend on the specifics of the case.
The statute of limitations for filing a claim varies by state. It's important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.
Many personal injury cases are settled out of court. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. An experienced rideshare accident lawyer can guide you through the process.
While not required, it is highly recommended. Rideshare accident claims can be legally complex, and a lawyer can help navigate the legal system, deal with insurance companies, and advocate for your best interests.
Many rideshare accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or court award.
Depending on your state's laws, you may still be able to recover damages. Some states have comparative negligence laws that allow you to recover compensation reduced by your percentage of fault.
The timeline for settling a claim can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to settle. Your lawyer can provide more specific guidance based on your situation.
For more detailed information or to discuss your specific case, please contact The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, P.A. for a free consultation.
Attorney Advertising | Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
