Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have changed how we do transportation. In Sandy Springs and throughout the country, people can get a ride at all hours through a simple app. But the convenience of ridesharing does not mean it is risk-free.
Uber and Lyft make up 99% of the U.S. ride-sharing market. They are popular ridesharing services, and both companies have standards in place to ensure drivers travel safely. Despite the best efforts of Uber and Lyft, rideshare drivers can cause accidents, just like any driver.
If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you have rights. Talk to a Sandy Springs rideshare accident lawyer about your compensation options. We can help you navigate the waters of a rideshare lawsuit and fight for compensation to cover your expenses.
How Ridesharing Accidents Are Different from Other Types of Car Accidents
Pursuing damages after a car accident is simple. An accident victim can file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company or any other individuals responsible for the incident. The victim can work with a personal injury attorney to seek the maximum amount of damages.
The insurance side of ridesharing accidents and the employment status of drivers raise legal questions in personal injury cases. Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, not employees. This protects the companies from liability after an accident and makes it nearly impossible to sue Uber or Lyft for an accident.
If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, get in touch with a rideshare accident lawyer in Sandy Springs. Each case is different, and you will need to know your legal options. You might have more than one insurance claim going at once and may need help dealing with insurance companies.
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How to Identify the At-Fault Party in an Uber or Lyft Ridesharing Accident
After an Uber or Lyft ridesharing accident, it is important to know who is at fault. Depending on the situation, the responsible party could be:
- The Uber driver
- Uber or Lyft
- Another driver involved in the accident
- A vehicle manufacturer
- A government agency
Sometimes, more than one party is partially at fault. This can make your injury claim even more complicated. In addition, Uber has unique policies where it is not always clear who pays for an accident.
Rideshare Accidents Can Result in Expensive Medical Bills
An Uber or Lyft ride may seem affordable. But for those involved in a rideshare accident, their trip can be costly. The trip can result in injuries that require long-term medical care.
Following a rideshare accident, it is paramount to get a medical diagnosis and treatment. A doctor can evaluate the severity of any injuries from the accident. The doctor can then provide a patient with insights into how long it will take to recover.
Keep track of any medical bills relating to a rideshare accident as well. These bills can add up quickly. They can provide the basis for a rideshare accident lawsuit.
How Insurance Covers Uber and Lyft Accidents
Everyone in Sandy Springs must carry auto insurance to drive. The same is true for Uber and Lyft drivers, but the companies that hire them also carry insurance. Which insurance you can access after an accident depends on the situation.
Driver Is Not Working
Uber drivers use their personal vehicles to give rides. If the driver is not using their car for ridesharing when an accident occurs, this individual is liable. In this scenario, the driver’s auto insurance will apply to the accident.
Drivers must carry at least the minimum level of car insurance in
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
In this situation, you need to file an injury claim with the driver’s insurance company. Meanwhile, the insurance company may request several pieces of information to validate your claim. It may pressure you to accept a settlement offer, too.
Waiting for a Ride Request
If a driver causes an accident when signed into the app and waiting for a ride, it becomes more complicated. The driver’s insurance applies to the accident, and many insurance companies will not cover an accident that involves ridesharing. If the driver’s insurance does not cover the crash, Uber or Lyft provides the following levels of coverage:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
This circumstance can be complex. For more information, talk to a rideshare accident attorney in Sandy Springs. Then, the lawyer can explain all of your options.
Picking Up or Carrying a Passenger
Uber and Lyft fully cover an accident in two scenarios. The driver must be signed into (and available in) the app. Or, the driver must be heading to pick up a passenger or currently transporting a passenger.
The ridesharing companies provide up to $1 million in liability insurance for these covered accidents. Regardless, it pays to consult with a rideshare attorney. This ensures you can get the legal help you need to fight for the damages you deserve.
Insurance companies do not like to pay a lot for accident damages. When they provide huge policies, they will fight hard to hold onto their money. The best way to fight for what you deserve is by speaking to an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Sandy Springs.
When You Need a Sandy Springs Rideshare Accident Attorney
Any car accident case is challenging, but Uber and Lyft accidents are especially complicated. An experienced lawyer can help after any collision. Signs you need legal help after a rideshare accident include:
- You have painful injuries or suffer other serious damages due to the accident.
- You are unsure of who to turn to for compensation relating to the accident.
- You want to learn about your legal rights and laws associated with rideshare accidents.
- The driver, the ridesharing company, or their insurance companies try to blame you for the accident.
- You get a quick settlement offer from the insurance company. (Do not take this without speaking to a lawyer first.)
- You have no idea where to start with your legal case.
- You want to make sure you file a claim before you run out of time.
Most people have never had to deal with a rideshare accident case. If you have injuries and do not think you are at fault, contact an experienced Sandy Springs rideshare accident lawyer. Talking to a lawyer will ensure you are seeking the fullest compensation possible.
You Can Seek a Big Settlement in a Rideshare Accident Case
Georgia lawmakers have not capped the amount a rideshare accident victim can pursue in a personal injury case. A victim can seek damages for medical fees, loss of wages, and other economic losses. The victim can also request damages for pain, suffering, and other emotional trauma.
It can be challenging to track all expenses relating to a rideshare accident. By partnering with a rideshare accident lawyer, a victim can receive help in this area. The victim’s attorney can help their client review costs associated with the accident and pursue damages accordingly.
Rideshare accident damages can total hundreds of thousands of dollars. A rideshare accident lawyer wants their client to receive fair compensation. The lawyer can submit a lawsuit to help their client get sufficient damages as quickly as possible.
What to Expect When You Talk to a Sandy Springs Rideshare Accident Lawyer
A Sandy Springs rideshare accident attorney understands the ins and outs of Georgia personal injury law. The lawyer can review the details surrounding your rideshare accident. From here, the attorney can provide legal guidance.
Also, a rideshare accident lawyer can protect you from common insurance company tactics. The attorney can build a strong injury claim that shows who was at fault, what damages you have, and what you deserve. Plus, the attorney can help you present a wealth of evidence and testimony to argue your case in court.
A rideshare accident attorney remains accessible throughout case proceedings. The lawyer can respond to your legal concerns and questions. This ensures you can make informed decisions as you navigate the legal process.
When to Expect to Be Awarded Damages in a Sandy Springs Rideshare Accident Case
A typical rideshare accident case requires months or years to reach its conclusion. After a lawsuit is filed, an accident victim and their lawyer await a court date. During this period, they can negotiate with any at-fault parties to settle damages before this date arrives.
Both parties in a rideshare accident case may go back and forth with settlement offers. Neither party is required to accept a settlement proposal. If both parties agree to a settlement, the case is resolved.
If a rideshare accident victim believes a settlement offer is unfair, this individual can move forward with a court date. The days before a court date can be stressful. Thankfully, the victim’s attorney will help their client get ready for court.
How a Sandy Springs Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Lawyer Preps Their Client for Court
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to help a rideshare accident victim prepare for court. The victim’s attorney keeps the lines of communication open. This ensures the victim can come forward with any concerns or questions before going to court.
A rideshare accident attorney can offer insights into what to expect in court. The lawyer wants the client to feel comfortable and confident during a court appearance. As such, the attorney commits time, energy, and resources to help their client plan ahead.
When a court date arrives, a rideshare accident victim and their attorney can present their argument to a judge and jury. The at-fault party and their attorney will share their side of the case. Once a judge or jury deliberates, it will hand down a decision and let the victim know if damages will be awarded.
Call a Sandy Springs Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
Uber and Lyft accident claims are difficult. If you are not careful, you could miss out on a lot of compensation for your damages. At John Foy & Associates, we can help you build a strong claim for what you deserve.
We can put you in touch with an Uber and Lyft rideshare accident lawyer who works only on contingency. That means that:
- We charge no upfront fees.
- We do not get paid unless we win or settle your case.
- Our fees come straight from what you win — not your own pocket.
We can discuss your accident and your compensation options. You do not have to worry about the legal side of things because an attorney from our team can handle it. To request a free consultation, contact us online or call us today.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form