Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a convenient and popular way for residents and visitors in Mt. Pleasant and throughout the Charleston area to get around. However, with the rise in rideshare use comes an increased risk of accidents involving these vehicles. If you are injured in a rideshare accident, navigating the legal process without the help of a Mt. Pleasant rideshare accident lawyer can be overwhelming and complex.
If you have injuries and other damages from a rideshare accident, a skilled Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyer at Shelly Leeke Law Firm can help you secure the compensation you deserve while providing personalized legal support.
Our team has over a decade of experience helping personal injury victims seek justice for injuries from someone else’s negligence. Contact us today to get started on your path to justice.
Understanding Rideshare Accident Claims
Rideshare accidents differ significantly from typical car accidents due to the involvement of large companies like Uber and Lyft, multiple layers of insurance, and unique legal considerations. Determining liability and navigating insurance policies can be particularly challenging, especially when corporate policies and individual driver coverage come into play.
Shelly Leeke Law Firm’s Mt. Pleasant personal injury lawyers understand the nuances of rideshare accident claims and have a proven track record of obtaining successful results in these cases. Whether you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, the driver of another car, a pedestrian, or even a cyclist, we are prepared to fight for your rights.
We are committed to ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Mt. Pleasant
While many rideshare drivers are responsible and cautious, several factors can contribute to accidents in the area. Understanding these factors can help identify who may be accountable and highlight the unique risks associated with these services. Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents in Mt. Pleasant include:
- Distracted driving: Rideshare drivers frequently participate in actions that are considered distracted driving, including relying on smartphone apps for navigation, communication, and accepting rides, which can take their attention off the road.
- Driver fatigue: Some rideshare drivers work long hours to maximize earnings, which can lead to fatigue and slower reaction times.
- Traffic violations: Rideshare drivers may feel pressured to drive aggressively by speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield to meet deadlines or avoid low ratings.
- Inexperience or poor training: Rideshare companies do not always require extensive driver training, leaving some drivers unprepared for challenging road conditions or emergencies.
- Other drivers’ negligence: Not all accidents are the rideshare driver’s fault, as reckless or negligent behavior by other drivers can also contribute to crashes.
Injuries Commonly Associated with Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Even minor injuries can result in costly medical bills, missed work, and ongoing pain, making it essential to seek legal representation from a rideshare accident attorney in Mt. Pleasant to help you obtain full compensation.
Some of the most common injuries sustained include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries.
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations.
- Broken bones and fractures.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Internal organ damage.
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may be involved, and multiple insurance policies may apply.
It is crucial to consult with an experienced Mt. Pleasant rideshare accident attorney who can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and identify all potential liable parties. These parties include:
The Rideshare Driver
Like all drivers, rideshare drivers must operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. You can sue an Uber or Lyft driver after a car accident if the crash resulted from their negligence.
While rideshare companies provide insurance coverage in some situations, the driver’s personal insurance may apply if they were not actively using the rideshare app at the time of the accident.
Uber or Lyft
Rideshare companies often attempt to minimize their liability by arguing that their drivers are independent contractors rather than employees. However, they do provide insurance coverage for their drivers under specific conditions. For example:
- The driver’s personal insurance applies if they are not logged into the app.
- The company may provide limited coverage if the driver is logged in but not carrying a passenger.
- The company’s liability policy typically applies if the driver is carrying a passenger or driving to pick one up.
Other Drivers
In some cases, another driver may be entirely or partially at fault for the accident. For example, if a drunk or reckless driver collided with a rideshare vehicle, their insurance would be the primary source of compensation.
Identifying and proving another driver’s negligence requires a thorough investigation and careful evidence collection, including eyewitness accounts, police reports, and traffic camera footage.
Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer
Defective vehicles or parts, such as malfunctioning brakes, faulty airbags, or engine issues, can contribute to rideshare accidents. In these cases, the manufacturer or distributor of the defective part may be liable under product liability laws.
Pursuing a claim against a manufacturer requires proving that the defect directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
Government Entities
Poor road conditions, such as potholes, lack of proper signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals, can also contribute to rideshare accidents. A government entity responsible for maintaining the roadway may be liable in these situations.
Filing a claim against a government entity often involves unique procedures and strict deadlines, making it crucial to consult with a skilled rideshare accident lawyer in Mt. Pleasant as soon as possible.
Compensation Available for Rideshare Accident Victims
Under Title 15 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, you have a limited time to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for your injuries. Filing within this timeframe is crucial to preserving your right to seek compensation. If successful, you may recover damages for various losses, including:
- Medical expenses.
- Lost wages.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage.
- Punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence.
Contact a Mt. Pleasant Rideshare Accident Lawyer at Shelly Leeke Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one is injured in a rideshare accident, our dedicated team is ready to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free case consultation, and let us handle the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Together, we will work toward achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
