Rideshare Accident Lawyer

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.

What is a Rideshare Accident Lawyer?

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.

Our role as your Rideshare Accident Lawyer includes:

• Investigating the Accident: We gather all necessary evidence, including driver history, vehicle maintenance records, and the rideshare company’s policies at the time of the accident.
• Determining Liability: We work to identify all potentially liable parties, which could include the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, or other involved parties.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with the insurance companies to negotiate fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
• Providing Legal Representation: If necessary, we are prepared to represent you in court to ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the justice you deserve.

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.

Why Choose Us as Your Rideshare Accident Lawyer?

• Experience You Can Trust: With a proven track record of success, our firm has the expertise to handle the unique challenges of rideshare accident cases.
• Client-Centered Approach: We treat each case with the personal attention it deserves, ensuring that your story is heard and your rights are protected.
• No Win, No Fee: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

What Makes a Rideshare Accident Different Than a Regular Car Accident?

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:

Multiple Insurance Policies

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).

Varied Liability Issues

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.

Commercial Activity

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.

Company Policies

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.

State and Local Regulations

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.

Complex Litigation

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.

Technological Evidence

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.

Who is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

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:

Rideshare Driver's Personal Insurance

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.

Rideshare Company's Contingent Liability Coverage

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.

Rideshare Company's Commercial Insurance

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.

Third-Party Drivers or Other Entities

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.

Shared Liability Cases

In some situations, liability may be shared among multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers or entities.

Rideshare Company's Responsibility

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.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

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:

Check for Injuries

The first priority is to check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance.

Ensure Safety

If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move to a safe location to avoid any further accidents or injuries.

Contact Authorities

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.

Gather Information

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.

Document the Scene

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.

Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company

Use the rideshare app to report the accident. Both Uber and Lyft have in-app features that allow you to report an accident directly.

Seek Medical Attention

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.

Do Not Discuss Fault

Avoid discussing the accident details or admitting fault to other drivers, witnesses, or insurance adjusters at the scene.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible.

Consult a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

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 Records

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

Common Injuries from a Rideshare Accident

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:

1. Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden stops or changes in direction can cause the head to jerk violently, leading to neck strain or more serious cervical spine injuries.
2. Head Injuries: These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), depending on the impact.
3. Broken Bones: The force of a collision can easily break or fracture bones, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis.
4. Lacerations and Bruises: Shattered glass, metal, or plastic can cause cuts, while the impact with any part of the vehicle interior can cause bruising.
5. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a crash can injure the back, potentially leading to herniated discs, spinal cord damage, or even paralysis.
6. Internal Injuries: The force exerted on the body during a crash can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs.
7. Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, individuals involved in rideshare accidents may suffer from psychological issues such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or depression.
8. Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscles, tendons, and ligaments can be stretched or torn in an accident, leading to sprains and strains.
9. Burns: If a vehicle catches fire or if skin comes into contact with hot surfaces or chemicals, burns can occur.
10. Loss of Limbs or Amputation: In extreme cases, an accident may result in injuries that require surgical amputation of limbs.

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.

Let's Get You the Compensation You Deserve

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.

Rideshare Accident FAQs

What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident?

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.

Who is liable in a rideshare accident?

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.

Can I sue a rideshare company like Uber or Lyft after an 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.

What compensation can I recover from a rideshare accident?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The exact compensation will depend on the specifics of the case.

How long do I have to file a claim after a rideshare accident?

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.

Will my case go to court?

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.

Do I need a lawyer for a rideshare accident claim?

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.

How much does it cost to hire a rideshare accident lawyer?

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.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

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.

How long will it take to settle my rideshare accident claim?

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.