Numerous people rely on Uber and Lyft’s services to travel conveniently between destinations. Users of these apps expect to be transported safely and securely. Still, many accidents occur involving Uber and Lyft drivers.
The process for recovering compensation after an Uber or Lyft accident will depend on a variety of circumstances surrounding your crash. Typically, you will either file a claim under Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy or file a lawsuit against a third-party driver. An experienced Uber and Lyft accident lawyer can help determine the proper course of action.
If you were injured because of an Uber or Lyft accident in Rockford, IL, get help recovering the monetary damages available to you. Contact our experienced Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers by calling the Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502 for a free case review.
Who to Sue After Uber and Lyft Accidents in Rockford, IL
The legal strategies that apply to Uber and Lyft accident lawsuits can vary. The proper course of action in a particular case can depend on several details surrounding the crash at issue. Our Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help determine which of the following legal options are available to you:
Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft consider their drivers to be independent contractors, rather than employees. Therefore, you usually cannot sue Uber or Lyft after rideshare accidents. However, both companies carry insurance policies to cover damages caused by accidents involving their drivers. Victims can contact our experienced Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers for help bringing claims against rideshare companies’ insurance policies.
Rideshare Drivers
If your accident was caused by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may file suit against that driver directly. However, many drivers do not have the resources to pay for the full extent of damages they cause. In most cases, victims should primarily seek compensation through Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies.
Third-Party Drivers
Lastly, some rideshare accidents are caused by third-party drivers. If you were injured because of an Uber or Lyft accident caused by a third-party driver, you may file suit against the driver who caused your accident. Damages will typically be paid by the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Time Limit to File Uber and Lyft Accident Lawsuits in Rockford, IL
Time limits to file particular types of lawsuits are set forth by states’ statutes of limitations. According to 735 I.L.C.S. 5/13-202, a victim will typically have two years from the date of their crash to file an Uber or Lyft accident case in Rockford. Those who do not meet this deadline may miss out on important financial compensation.
Despite having two years, you should attempt to file your case as soon as possible. There are numerous requirements plaintiffs must comply with when filing a case. For instance, plaintiffs must file their case in the correct court, attach necessary supporting documents, pay any required court fees, and serve all named defendants. Failure to comply with any of these requirements could force you to re-file your case. By attempting to file your lawsuit early, you may afford yourself time to re-file if necessary.
Common Injuries Caused by Uber and Lyft Accidents in Rockford, IL
Uber and Lyft accidents can lead to a wide array of painful and debilitating injuries. Some injuries can heal quickly while others may require long-term medical care. The following are examples of common injuries caused by Uber and Lyft accidents in Rockford, IL:
Broken Bones
Broken bones are a common injury sustained by victims of Uber and Lyft accidents. Broken bones often occur when passengers make violent impacts with objects inside of a vehicle during a crash. Further, many pedestrians suffer broken bones when they are struck by careless rideshare drivers. In severe cases where victims suffer crush injuries or compound fractures, surgical treatment may be required.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are one of the most severe injuries caused by Uber and Lyft accidents. These injuries are usually caused by external blows to the head and can produce numerous devastating symptoms. Victims with traumatic brain injuries such as concussions often experience detrimental impacts on their quality of life. Our experienced Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help recover compensation for the full range of damages caused by a traumatic brain injury.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Additionally, spinal cord injuries are another particularly serious injury caused by Uber and Lyft accidents. Damage to the spinal cord can cause severe pain, immobility, and even complete paralysis. Accordingly, victims with spinal cord injuries usually often incur costly medical expenses and may require long-term medical care. Fortunately, if you suffered a spinal cord injury because of a rideshare accident, our team can help pursue compensation for all past, current, and future medical expenses related to your injury.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries refer to internal organ damage and internal bleeding. These injuries can produce severe and even fatal symptoms but may not become painful until days after an Uber or Lyft crash. You should not give internal injuries a chance to worsen. If you suspect you might have incurred internal injuries because of a rideshare accident, you should seek a medical assessment right away. Our Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help refer the right physician for you.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Lastly, many Uber and Lyft accidents cause soft tissue injuries. Soft tissue injuries describe strains and sprains to muscles, ligaments, and tendons anywhere in the body. These injuries can be very painful and debilitating. Victims with soft tissue injuries are usually forced to spend time away from work while they recover. In such cases, our Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help pursue compensation for lost wages incurred while you were away.
If You Were Injured Because of an Uber or Lyft Accident in Rockford, IL, Our Lawyers Can Help
If you were injured because of an Uber or Lyft accident, seek support from our experienced Rockford Uber and Lyft accident lawyers by calling the Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502 for a free case review.
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