At Coletrane & Messersmith we understand the convenience and popularity of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft. However, these services aren't without risks.
If you have been injured in a ridesharing accident in Virginia, you may be entitled to significant compensation for any and all damages. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of these claims and fight for the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Coletrane & Messersmith for Your Rideshare Accident Claim?
- Experience: Our legal team stays up-to-date on Virginia's ridesharing laws and insurance regulations, ensuring we effectively handle your case and get you the best possible results.
- Expertise: We understand the unique aspects of ridesharing accidents, including determining who is liable and maximizing your compensation
- Communication: Our client-centered approach prioritizes open communication and transparency to keep you informed throughout the legal process.
- Reputation: Our goal is to recover the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages and we are very good at what we do. But don’t just take our word for it. Our record of success speaks for itself.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
Being in any kind of accident is stressful, but rideshare accidents can be especially intimidating. Because there are so many more factors to consider than with other car accidents, you might struggle to know the proper steps to take after. Here are some things you should make sure you do immediately following a rideshare accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be the top priority. No injury is too minor. Make sure that you get any injuries checked out as soon as possible and get a medical evaluation. This will help ensure that your injuries are treated properly while also documenting your injuries for any future insurance or legal claim.
- Report the Accident: Report the accident to the rideshare company and the police. Make sure that an incident report is filed and that everything has been reported accurately.
- Gather Evidence: Collect photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles involved. Keep these photos in a separate folder in your phone or computer to ensure you do not lose track of them. Some legal cases can take months or even years to reach a verdict and that evidence could be essential to your case.
- Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer: Do not speak to the rideshare company's insurance adjusters without legal counsel. They may try to minimize your claim. Wait for your chosen representative to advise you on your next steps.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents are interesting because of the added question of fault. When you are driving yourself from place to place, an accident is typically either caused by you or another car involved. With rideshare, things can get a bit more complicated.
Here are some common causes of rideshare car accidents:
- Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers may be distracted by their phones, GPS navigation, or passengers.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: Drivers rushing to complete rides may engage in risky maneuvers.
- Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Improperly maintained rideshare vehicles can pose safety hazards.
- Intoxicated Driving: Unfortunately, some drivers operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Who is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?
So, how can you tell who is responsible during a rideshare accident? Similar to other kinds of car accidents, liability is typically determined by a few different factors. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, several parties could be liable, including:
- The Rideshare Driver: If the driver caused the accident due to negligence, their personal insurance and the rideshare company's insurance may be involved.
- The Other Driver: If another driver is at fault, their insurance will be responsible for covering your damages.
- The Rideshare Company: Rideshare companies carry insurance policies that may cover accidents during specific ride stages and cover accidents caused by technological malfunctions in their app or during navigation.
Get Help Today – Free Consultation
If you have been injured in a ridesharing accident in Virginia, contact Coletrane & Messersmith for a free consultation today. We are here to review your case and discuss your legal options with you to help you best understand your options moving forward.
Don't wait to seek the compensation you deserve. Call Coletrane & Messersmith today at (757) 223-4455 or contact us online.
