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Many people in Smyrna use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. When you get into one of these vehicles, you expect the driver to keep you safe. But if you’ve been in a rideshare accident, you might wonder where to turn. Thankfully, a Smyrna Uber and Lyft rideshare accident lawyer can help.
If you suffered injuries in a rideshare accident, you have rights. You might be entitled to financial recovery. To learn more, speak with an experienced lawyer at John Foy & Associates.
We have been helping accident victims for 20-plus years. Our attorneys know what it takes to win. Plus, we do not collect a fee unless we win your case. To schedule a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Common Types of Rideshare Accidents in Smyrna
Rideshare accidents can happen like other car accidents. No matter the type, you could have injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.
Some of the most common rideshare crashes we see include:
- Rear-end accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Distracted driving accidents
- Texting while driving crashes
- Speeding accidents
To work for Uber or Lyft, drivers must use an app. The app makes the service convenient, but it can be a hazard. If the driver becomes too distracted by their phone, they can crash.
When you get into a rideshare vehicle, you expect a safe ride. However, accidents sometimes happen. If a rideshare accident left you injured, you shouldn’t have to pay.
Why Uber and Lyft Accidents Happen
Car accidents happen because of negligence. Another word for negligence is carelessness. Here’s a legal explanation:
- All drivers in Smyrna owe a “duty of care.” They must drive carefully to avoid harming others.
- When a driver fails in their duty, the law calls it negligence. Georgia Code Section 51-1-2 covers the definition of negligence.
- Negligence is a critical factor in a car accident. The at-fault party has been negligent.
- When someone’s negligence causes a crash, that person is responsible for the damages. As an accident victim, you can seek financial recovery.
You will need to prove who was negligent in your accident. Most of the time, it’s the Uber or Lyft driver. But the at-fault party can also be:
- The Lyft or Uber companies
- Another driver
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Mechanics
Sometimes, an accident happens because of car defects. If a defective part caused your accident, the manufacturer could be at fault. A maintenance person could also be responsible.
If the at-fault party is not the rideshare driver, it’s likely another driver. In rare circumstances, Lyft or Uber could be responsible. However, bringing a case against one of these companies is difficult.
Rideshare Accident Cases Are Complicated
Uber and Lyft accidents are more complex than regular car accidents. Your legal options will depend on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the crash.
- If the driver caused the accident while they were “on the clock,” Uber or Lyft might cover it. However, the company’s insurance might only apply if the driver’s insurance doesn’t.
- If the driver caused the crash before accepting a ride, the above applies but with less company coverage.
- If the driver was “off the clock” and caused an accident, the driver’s personal insurance applies.
If another driver was at fault, that driver’s insurance applies. You will need to know how these details affect your accident. You might need to file a claim with more than one insurer.
Suing for Your Accident Damages
Insurance companies often offer a lowball settlement on an accident claim. If this happens to you, contact a lawyer immediately. Do not accept the first offer. The first settlement offer won’t cover your total damages.
Most of the time, an experienced lawyer will be able to negotiate a fair settlement. If this happens, you’ll get paid what you need. In rare cases, you might need to sue.
You typically can’t sue Lyft or Uber as companies. That’s because their drivers work as independent contractors. However, you can probably sue the Lyft or Uber driver.
The Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
If you file an injury claim, the insurance company will try to pay you less. It might use tactics like:
- Downplaying your injuries
- Blaming you for the accident
- Doubting your injuries
- Using something you say against you
- Trying to offer you a lowball settlement
Be very careful about any communication with the insurance company. Also, do not accept a settlement or sign anything without a lawyer. The good news is that your lawyer can handle it for you.
Uber and Lyft rideshare accident lawyers know how to communicate with insurance companies. They can also negotiate to try and get a fair settlement. Your lawyer can handle the legal details while you focus on healing.
John Foy & Associates is here to help. We have over 20 years of experience helping accident victims. Contact us today to learn more during a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Injuries
Rideshare accident injuries can range from minor to extreme. Unfortunately, some accidents even cause death. Examples of injuries can include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head trauma
- Cuts and lacerations
- Strains and sprains
- Internal organ damage
You will need to prove these injuries in your claim. You’ll also need to determine what they’ve cost you. Keep track of all medical records and bills. If you have questions, contact your lawyer.
No matter what injuries you have, you could have a case. Talk to a lawyer today about getting the recovery you deserve.
Talk to a Smyrna Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Lawyer for Free Today
If a Lyft or Uber accident injured you, John Foy & Associates can help. During your FREE consultation, we’ll discuss your accident and legal options. We’ll listen carefully to your concerns and answer your questions.
Working with us is risk-free for you. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case. You don’t have to worry about upfront costs to get started.
To schedule your FREE consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
