Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have changed the way people move by making it easier to get where they need to go with just a tap on a screen. What happens, though, when a normal ride ends in an accident? If you get hurt in a rideshare crash, it can be hard to figure out your insurance claims, who is responsible, and how to get better. Here is where a good accident lawyer is very important.
Understanding the Complexity of Rideshare Accidents
Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare incidents involve multiple parties and potentially overlapping insurance policies. You might be dealing with:
- The rideshare driver’s personal insurance
- The rideshare company’s commercial policy
- Another driver’s insurance
- Your own insurance, in some cases
Determining who is liable—and to what extent—is not always straightforward. For example, rideshare companies typically offer up to $1 million in liability coverage, but only under specific conditions (e.g., when the driver is actively transporting a passenger). If the app was off or the driver was waiting for a ride request, different rules apply. An experienced injury lawyer can help determine which policy applies and ensure you’re not unfairly denied compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, hiring a lawyer early on offers several advantages:
1. Determining Liability
One of the first tasks a lawyer takes on is establishing fault. Was the rideshare driver negligent? Was another motorist involved? Your attorney will collect evidence such as dashcam footage, police reports, driver logs, and eyewitness statements to support your claim.
2. Navigating Complex Insurance Policies
It can be hard to figure out how rideshare insurance works. To protect your interests, a personal injury lawyer with a lot of experience will read the fine print, figure out which policies are in effect, and handle all contacts with insurance adjusters.
3. Calculating Damages
Beyond immediate medical costs, your lawyer will evaluate long-term implications like physical therapy, lost income, emotional distress, and reduced earning capacity. Accurate damage estimation is key to securing a fair settlement.
4. Negotiating Settlements
Most personal injury cases don’t go to trial, but that doesn’t mean they’re simple. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements to unrepresented victims. A skilled lawyer like Matthew Burkert, Esq. knows how to negotiate assertively and avoid tactics designed to minimize payouts.
5. Filing a Lawsuit if Needed
If you can’t reach a deal, your lawyer can file a personal injury case and go to court with you. Having a legal advocate with litigation experience ensures that your case is taken seriously and handled professionally every step of the way.
Why Choose the Right Attorney
Not every personal injury lawyer is able to handle rideshare accident cases the same way. Look for someone who has dealt with cases like yours before, is good at negotiating, and knows the rules in your state. Lawyers like Matthew Burkert, Esq. are experts in accident-related lawsuits and bring a lot of knowledge to cases that involve modern transportation services.
Final Thoughts
Rideshare accidents bring an added layer of legal complexity due to the involvement of app-based platforms, commercial policies, and multiple stakeholders. If you’ve been injured, don’t navigate this process alone. An experienced accident lawyer will fight for the compensation you deserve and guide you through each step—from paperwork to court, if needed.