Rideshare services have transformed transportation, offering convenience and accessibility. However, the rise of companies like Uber and Lyft has also introduced new complexities when accidents occur involving these rideshare vehicles. If you’ve been injured in such an incident, understanding your legal rights to seek compensation with a Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft accident lawyer is important.
It’s beneficial to explore the damages you may be eligible to recover, the unique aspects distinguishing rideshare accidents from typical car accidents, and the crucial steps you should take afterward to protect your interests. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge necessary to navigate this challenging situation and secure support. Our team at Shelly Leeke can provide you with a Mt. Pleasant car accident lawyer who can walk you through the steps you should take next.
How to File a Claim Against Uber or Lyft
You may be eligible for financial restitution for injuries and damages following an Uber or Lyft accident. However, filing a claim against these rideshare companies can be complex and challenging. You should understand the steps involved in the process, with a Mt. Pleasant personal injury lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
The first step in filing a claim against Uber or Lyft with your Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft accident attorney is to gather all relevant information about the accident, including the date, time, location, and details of what happened. You should also collect the name, phone number, and insurance information of the driver and any other parties involved in the accident. You must report the accident to both the rideshare company and the police as soon as possible.
Next, you should go to your doctor or hospital for any injuries from the accident, even if they initially seem minor. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, missed time from work, and expenses because of your injuries. These documents will be important when filing your claim and negotiating a settlement with the rideshare company or their insurance provider.
Possible Damages to Recover
You may be eligible for various types of compensation and damages, depending on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident. As long as you have proof, it is possible to recover compensation for what you went through. Some of the most common types of damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
Seeking compensation for your injuries and losses can help alleviate financial burdens and provide support for your recovery. You have every right to attempt and seek compensation for your injuries, according to Title 56 of the South Carolina Code of Laws Unannotated. An experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorney in Mt. Pleasant can assess your case and help you understand the full extent of the damages you may receive.
How Rideshare Accidents Are Different from Typical Accidents
While Uber and Lyft accidents may seem similar to typical car accidents, there are several differences. These differences are vital to know because they can impact your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. One of the most significant differences is the insurance coverage involved.
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide some level of insurance coverage for their drivers. However, the extent of this coverage can vary depending on whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger at the time of the accident. In some cases, the driver’s personal insurance policy may also come into play.
Another difference is the potential liability of the rideshare company itself. While Uber and Lyft typically classify their drivers as independent contractors, there are some situations where the company may be held liable for an accident. An example of this could be if they failed to screen or train their drivers properly.
How Insurance Companies Can Try to Avoid Liability
When dealing with insurance companies after an Uber or Lyft accident, be aware of the tactics they may use to minimize their liability and avoid paying out on claims. Insurance companies may dispute the severity of your injuries and argue that your injuries were pre-existing. The insurance companies may also claim that you were partially at fault for the accident or offer a low initial settlement in hopes you’ll accept it.
To protect your rights and receive the possible compensation you are after, work with an Uber and Lyft accident lawyer in Mt. Pleasant. The lawyer can negotiate with the insurance companies for you and fight for your interests. Your lawyer can help protect an injury claim by gathering the evidence you need and handling all communication with the insurance companies.
Insurance providers may also use delaying tactics, dragging out the claims process in hopes you’ll become frustrated and accept a lowball offer. They might request unnecessary documentation, claim information is missing, or simply go silent for long periods. Throughout this process, they are counting on you to lose patience or make a mistake that could undermine your claim.
Steps to Take After a Lyft or Uber Accident
Taking the right steps can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. No compensation can be guaranteed, but you can increase your chances by following the right steps. Some of the most important steps to take include:
- Seek medical attention
- Report the accident to the police and the rideshare company
- Gather evidence, such as photos of the accident scene and contact information for witnesses
- Keep detailed records of your injuries, medical treatment, and expenses
- Consult with an experienced Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft accident lawyer
Make sure not to skip out on any of these steps. For example, some people think they are fine and don’t seek medical attention. However, if you skip this step, you don’t have medical paperwork backing up any injuries at all, even if it is not severe.
Contact a Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney
Don’t hesitate to seek the legal help you need after an Uber or Lyft crash. Our team at Shelly Leeke will do everything in our power to create the strongest case possible based on the evidence you can bring forward. Contact us to start with a free consultation to see how and if we can take your case on.
