Rideshare services are more common than ever in Alpharetta. Although Uber and Lyft are convenient, drivers are not perfect. Sometimes, accidents happen. If an accident left you injured, an Alpharetta personal injury attorney can help.
Rideshare injury cases are more complex than other car accidents. You need an experienced lawyer to walk you through the best steps. At John Foy & Associates, we bring over 25 years of experience to the table.
How to Know Who’s Responsible for Your Rideshare Accident
In Georgia, the person who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. As the injured person, you can seek compensation for your costs (Georgia Code Section 51-12-4). The at-fault party’s insurance company usually covers those damages.
You will need to have proof of the driver’s fault. A rideshare accident lawyer can help you gather the right evidence. Keep in mind that Uber and Lyft accident claims are different from other cases.
The responsible party varies depending on the ride status. Here’s how Uber’s insurance works:
- The Uber driver has their app off or is not accepting rides: The driver’s personal insurance applies.
- The Uber driver is available or waiting for a ride request: The driver’s insurance applies first. Uber provides third-party liability insurance if the driver’s insurer doesn’t cover the accident.
- The Uber driver currently has or is heading to pick up a passenger: Uber provides $1 million in insurance coverage.
As you can see, Uber does not always cover an accident. Lyft’s policies are very similar. Your compensation options will depend on the crash details.
What About the Other Driver’s Insurance?
If the ridesharing company’s insurance doesn’t apply, you can turn to the driver’s insurance. However, insurance companies will not always cover rideshare accidents. It’s essential to know your options as you build your case.
Lyft and Uber drivers must carry the minimum liability insurance for their state. The auto insurance minimums in Georgia are:
- Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per victim; $50,000 per incident
- Property damage liability: $25,000 per incident
If a driver has the minimum coverage, it might not cover all your accident costs. If you’re concerned about this, talk to your lawyer.
Bringing a Case Against a Rideshare Company in Alpharetta
Many rideshare accident victims wonder if they can sue Uber or Lyft. The answer is, “only in rare situations.” It’s tough to sue these companies because:
- Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, not employees.
- If a driver causes an accident, the company does not protect them like an employee.
- Uber and Lyft are not responsible for each driver’s actions because they are not employers.
There are particular cases where you might be able to sue a rideshare company. You could have a lawsuit if the company violated hiring standards. For example, maybe they hired a driver who they should have known was dangerous.
If you think you can file a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft, contact a lawyer. Your rideshare accident lawyer in Alpharetta can determine your options. Even if you can’t sue, you might be able to settle with the insurance company.
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Why Rideshare Accidents Are Complicated
Uber and Lyft legal cases can involve multiple insurance companies. You could end up filing a claim with the driver’s and the company’s insurer. There might be additional options that only a lawyer can identify.
Large companies are also powerful. They have broad insurance policies that they will fight hard to protect. You will need an Uber and Lyft lawyer to represent your side. Otherwise, the insurer will try to take advantage of your vulnerable situation.
Avoid talking to the insurance company until you have a lawyer. Your lawyer can handle all communication. They can also work to negotiate a fair settlement.
Damages You Can Recover from a Rideshare Accident
After a rideshare accident, you can seek compensation for your damages. Your “damages” are losses from the crash. If you have any physical injuries, you have damages.
Examples of accident costs include:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
Don’t file your claim until you know all your damages. It’s best to complete all medical treatment first. If you will need ongoing treatment, your lawyer can calculate future costs.
At John Foy & Associates, our goal is to get you a full recovery. We believe no one should pay for an accident they didn’t cause.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Alpharetta
After the accident, there are practical actions you can take. Following these steps can also help your Alpharetta rideshare accident attorney build your claim. Here are some things you can do right at the scene.
Report the Accident
Call 911 to report the crash to the police. Officers will create an accident report. This record will provide proof that the accident occurred.
Get Information from the Driver
If you were a rideshare passenger, ask the driver for the following:
- Full name
- Contact information
- Insurance policy number
- Phone number of the company the driver works for
If you were another driver in the accident, exchange your names, contact information, and insurance information with the rideshare driver.
Take Pictures
Photo evidence preserves the scene for your case. If you can, take pictures of:
- Your injuries
- Your vehicle damage (if you were another driver)
- Any personal property damage
- The entire accident scene
Talk to Witnesses
If other people saw the accident happen, talk to them. Ask for their names and contact information. Your lawyer can reach out to them for statements later.
After leaving the scene, see a doctor as soon as possible. If you have severe injuries, get medical attention immediately. Also, keep track of all bills, receipts, and other evidence of your costs.
When to Hire a Ridesharing Accident Lawyer
Liability in ridesharing accidents is complex and confusing. If you suffered injuries in this type of crash, it’s best to hire a lawyer immediately. You will need to deal with at least one insurance company to get what you deserve.
Insurance companies dislike paying much for injury claims. With companies like Lyft and Uber, there are enormous insurance policies. The insurance company will fight hard to protect their money.
A ridesharing accident lawyer in Alpharetta will help protect your rights by:
- Gathering evidence of your accident and the driver’s fault
- Calculating your total accident damages
- Building a strong personal injury claim
- Communicating with the insurance company on your behalf
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Making sure the insurer does not take advantage of you
Your costs are probably much higher than you realize. A lawyer can account for any future medical expenses you might have. They can also calculate your emotional injuries like mental anguish or pain and suffering.
Before discussing your accident with anyone, contact a ridesharing accident attorney. An experienced lawyer will know how to protect your rights. They’ll work to get you the fullest compensation possible for your losses.
Talk to an Alpharetta Rideshare Accident Lawyer for Free
Uber and Lyft accident cases are not simple. Thankfully, an experienced lawyer can handle the legal side of things. At John Foy & Associates, we are here to help you build a strong case.
We do not charge a fee unless we win you money. There is no risk to start working with us. Our lawyers will listen carefully and compassionately. Our number one goal is to recover your damages.
To get a FREE consultation with an Alpharetta rideshare accident lawyer, call or contact us online today.
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