Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are so commonplace that most people have ridden in one at least once. Unfortunately, not all rideshare passengers make it to their destination safely. If you are injured in an accident involving Uber or Lyft, an attorney can help you get fair financial compensation.
After an accident, you should get emergency medical attention and contact the police. Once the dust has settled, contact a lawyer who can help you get financial compensation. You may be able to file insurance claims to cover your damages, but insurance is not always enough. In that case, you may sue the person or people responsible for the accident.
Speak to our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys by calling the Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502 and ask for a free legal review.
Who is Responsible for Accidents with Lyft and Uber Vehicles in Springfield, IL?
Car accidents can be complicated, especially those involving rideshare vehicles, as large rideshare companies may be involved. If you or someone you know is involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, a lawyer can help you claim compensation.
Rideshare Drivers
Often, the driver of the Uber or Lyft vehicle involved in an accident is responsible. Rideshare drivers earn money based on how many rides they complete. As such, these drivers are more likely to speed and drive a little recklessly if it helps them complete more rides. This behavior may increase the risks of accidents. Rideshare drivers may also be more distracted by their phones since they need the rideshare apps on their phones to be open and active.
Other Drivers
Rideshare drivers are not always the ones responsible for an accident. Other drivers may be responsible for any number of reasons, including traffic violations, reckless driving, or even drunk driving. The police should be called to investigate, and they can help us determine who is responsible for the accident.
Uber and Lyft
It may be tempting to sue Uber or Lyft for an accident, especially if the rideshare driver is not only responsible but is also found to have been incredibly reckless. However, Uber and Lyft are often not vicariously liable for accidents because drivers are independent contractors, not employees. Even so, many in the legal field are pushing for companies like Uber and Lyft to face more consequences when independent contractors working for them cause innocent people to become injured.
FAQs About Uber and Lyft Accident Claims in Springfield, IL
Can I File an Insurance Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Yes. Not only can you file a claim with the Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance, but the rideshare company may have insurance available, depending on how the accident happened. There may be different levels of coverage based on the facts of the case, and an attorney can help you coordinate benefits to maximize your compensation.
Should I File a Lawsuit After an Uber or Lyft Car Accident?
Yes. Even if insurance is available, our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys should help you begin preparing a personal injury lawsuit. Insurance claims often do not cover all of an injured victim’s damages, and a lawsuit may be necessary to get all the compensation you need. Also, it is a good idea to exhaust your insurance options before taking your case to court.
Who Can I Sue for Damages from a Lyft or Uber Accident?
You may sue anyone whose negligence contributed to the accident. This may include the Uber or Lyft driver, in addition to other drivers who may have been involved in the accident. Unfortunately, injured accident victims typically cannot sue Uber or Lyft because drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees. However, this may be a point worth discussing with your lawyer.
What Should I Do After an Accident with a Lyft or Uber Vehicle?
If you are involved in a rideshare accident, you or someone else at the accident scene should call 911, especially if anyone is physically injured. You should also report the accident to the police. If the accident is a serious emergency, have the 911 dispatcher send medical personnel and law enforcement officials. If the accident is somewhat less serious, you should still go to the hospital right away and call the police to report the accident.
What Damages Can I Claim in a Lawsuit for an Uber or Lyft Accident?
You may claim damages for medical costs, property damage, and lost income if your injuries prevent you from returning to work. These damages may vary from case to case, and they can be quite substantial when injuries are severe. You may also claim damages related to mental and physical pain and suffering.
Do I Need Evidence for an Insurance Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Yes. When filing an insurance claim for a car accident, the insurance company will undoubtedly want some proof of your claims. Medical records about your injuries and treatment costs are likely necessary. We may also need to submit an official police report about the accident, which is a big reason why you should get the police involved. The exact evidence you need will depend on your injuries and legal claims.
What Kind of Evidence Should I Have for a Lawsuit for an Uber or Lyft Accident?
When filing a lawsuit, you will likely need more extensive evidence than you submit for an insurance claim. Certain evidence, like medical records and photos of the accident, is likely important in insurance claims and lawsuits. However, in a lawsuit, we can call upon witnesses to testify and may present evidence obtained from others at the scene. For example, other drivers might have had dashcams, and we can get copies of those videos for your case.
How Soon After a Lyft or Uber Accident Should I Speak to a Lawyer?
You should speak to an attorney sooner rather than later. Your priority should be getting medical care, and speaking to a lawyer should be a close second priority. If your injuries are severe, you might not be up for a consultation with a lawyer. However, an accident victim with severe injuries may be entitled to significant damages and may need immediate legal help.
What is the Best Way to Get Financial Compensation After a Lyft or Uber Crash?
You may have multiple options for compensation, and the best one will depend on what you want and what your claims are worth. Accident victims with less severe injuries may find their damages fully covered by insurance, which could be the best option for them. Others with more significant injuries might need to sue to ensure their damages are fully covered.
How Long Does it Take to Sue for an Uber or Lyft Accident?
The time it takes to complete a lawsuit varies from case to case. Generally, a trial may be scheduled several months after the case is initially filed. However, if the case is especially complex or more intensely disputed, the trial could be pushed back as the parties build their cases. It is not unusual for some civil injury lawsuits to take more than a year to complete, although this is not the case for everyone.
Contact Our Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys in Springfield, IL for Help Today
Speak to our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys by calling the Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502 and ask for a free legal review.
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