Rideshare services have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, the convenience of these services comes with risks. One significant danger is the potential for accidents caused by distracted driving.

If you suffered an injury in a rideshare accident due to a driver being distracted, you may wonder: “Can I pursue legal action?”

In short, the answer is yes. However, these complex cases can involve multiple parties, such as the rideshare company and the driver.

Speak with an experienced Augusta rideshare accident lawyer who can handle the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Do not hesitate to take action and contact a rideshare accident attorney near you to discuss your case.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!

Rideshare Accidents and Their Implications

Rideshare accidents involving distracted driving have become a major concern in recent years. According to national research statistics, distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in the United States.

With the rise in popularity of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft accidents caused by distracted rideshare drivers have also increased.

When a rideshare accident occurs, there can be severe implications for all parties involved. Passengers in the rideshare vehicle may suffer injuries, as may other motorists or pedestrians. You need a lawyer who knows the legal implications and understands your rights when seeking compensation for damages.

Is The Driver or the Company Liable?

In rideshare accidents caused by distracted driving, both the driver and the rideshare company may be held liable. The liability varies depending on whether the driver was on duty with the rideshare app at the time of the accident.

If the driver was on duty and actively using the rideshare app at the time of the accident, the rideshare company may share liability. Rideshare companies typically have insurance policies that cover accidents that occur while drivers actively work. In such cases, the injured party can file a claim against both the driver and the rideshare company.

On the other hand, if the driver was not on duty and not using the rideshare app at the time of the accident, the driver’s auto insurance will typically cover the damages. However, a personal injury lawyer who works with rideshare accident cases will determine the best course of action.

Reasons Distracted Driving is on The Rise

Distracted driving has become a prevalent issue in today’s society, with various factors contributing to its rise. Modern-day living involves up to 60 different distractions per day, ranging from smartphones and in-car technology to eating and personal grooming.

With so many distractions, it only takes a split second of inattention behind the wheel for an accident to occur.

The rise of smartphones and the increased use of apps while driving have significantly contributed to the surge in distracted driving accidents. Drivers who text, browse social media, or use navigation apps while driving are significantly more likely to cause an accident.

Additionally, the hectic pace of modern life has led to increased stress and decreased focus on the road. Many individuals multitask, trying to accomplish various things while behind the wheel, further increasing the risk of distractions.

Common Injuries Caused by Distracted Driving

Injured patient showing doctor broken wrist and arm with bandage in hospital office or emergency room. Distracted driving accidents can result in a wide range of severe and life-altering injuries.

Some common injuries caused by distracted driving accidents include:

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents and occurs when the head and neck are forcefully jerked back and forth. Whiplash can lead to long-term pain and limited mobility.

Broken Bones

The impact of a distracted driving accident can cause fractures and breaks in various bones, including the arms, legs, ribs, and spine.

Head and Brain Injuries

In more severe cases, accidents caused by distracted driving can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions. These injuries can have long-term effects, such as memory loss, cognitive impairments, and emotional disturbances.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a car accident can cause damage to the back and spinal cord, resulting in paralysis or other debilitating conditions.

Internal Injuries

The impact of a car accident can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, and other internal injuries that may kill if left untreated.

Some injuries may have delayed onset symptoms, and this can affect your long-term health and financial safety. Your injuries can require lengthy, costly treatment not covered by standard insurance payouts.

Therefore, it makes sense to team up with an attorney who can fight for the best settlement possible. Your future may depend on it.

You Should Never Wait to Call a Lawyer

If you suffered an injury in a rideshare accident caused by distracted driving, several signs indicate it may be time to call a car accident lawyer:

  • Do you believe the rideshare driver was at fault for the accident? If you suspect the driver’s distraction led to the accident, seek legal representation to hold them accountable.
  • Did you incur any financial losses due to the accident? It can include medical expenses, lost income, and property damage.
  • Do you have injuries resulting from the accident? If you suffered physical injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical treatment and pain and suffering.
  • Has an insurance company contacted you? Insurance companies may try to settle quickly and for a lower amount than you may be entitled to. Having an attorney on your side can ensure fair compensation.
  • Did the liable driver offer to settle the matter privately without involving insurance? Private settlements may not provide adequate compensation for your injuries and damages. It is wise to ask a lawyer before accepting any offers.

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it stands within reason to contact a personal injury lawyer experienced in rideshare accidents. They can evaluate your case, determine liability, and guide you through the legal process.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!

You Can Sue For Rideshare Accident Damages?

Rideshare accident victims can sue the driver or company for their damages. Financial compensation for losses can be claimed as: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. When pursuing a legal claim for a rideshare accident caused by distracted driving, here are various damages an attorney might claim:

Economic Damages

Medical expenses, lost income, and property damage are the primary forms of economic damage. You can also add all transportation costs to and from your treatments, not least if your car is damaged. Your replacement vehicle doesn’t come free; economic damages also cover such expenses following a rideshare accident.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment. Rideshare accident victims might lose access to their cherished hobbies or favorite sports. What’s more, their accident recovery can force them to miss significant life events, such as weddings. The emotional and psychological trauma a rideshare accident may inflict cannot be underrated.

Punitive Damages

In certain cases, punitive damages may punish the at-fault party for their extremely reckless behavior and deter others from engaging in similar actions.

With a rideshare accident lawyer who can accurately calculate your damages and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.

Rideshare Insurance Companies

Using a rideshare can be a rewarding way to explore a new place, but this convenience can change to chaos if you become an accident victim. Making a claim against a rideshare company’s insurance team can require a lawyer. A rideshare accident attorney knows the ins and outs of these cases and can handle the insurance company tactics.

Here are some things to know in the event a distracted rideshare driver injures you:

Accepting Responsibility

Companies like Lyft employ independent contractors, and they may try to shift blame. This scenario might become hard if the driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance to cover your costs.

Undervaluing Your Claim

Sadly, insurance companies are renowned for their stubborn methods used to lowball or delay a claim. They will say one thing and then do another, all the while making promises they don’t intend to keep, just to make you lose your will and settle early.

In fact, some rideshare companies likely pay bonuses to their operatives based on how much money they save in the settlement.

In all events such as these, a rideshare accident lawyer will combat these obstacles with their know-how. They might advise you to sue the company or the driver.

Do Not Accept Quick Settlement Offers

Insurance companies may try to settle your claim quickly and for less than you deserve. Calling a rideshare accident attorney before accepting any settlement offers will help you avoid inadequate compensation.

Every rideshare accident case is different, so working with a personal injury lawyer who can provide personalized guidance based on the specifics of your accident is key.

Types of Distracted Driving That Causes Accidents

It is no secret that our technological age means distractions are everywhere. Yet, these are in addition to other distractions that were already there (like eating, drinking, putting on make-up). If you can prove your rideshare driver or a rideshare driver who hit you was distracted, you can sue for compensation.

Here are the most common ways drivers get distracted while in control of a car:

  • Reaching for an item in the vehicle
  • Interacting with other passengers
  • Losing concentration
  • Consuming food or drinks
  • Stretching or yawning
  • Adjusting clothing
  • Paying attention to things outside the vehicle
  • Applying makeup or cosmetics
  • Texting on a smartphone
  • Fiddling with the car stereo or GPS device

Other Contributors to Distracted Rideshare Driving

Driver Yawning Behind the Wheel in her Car. Sleepy drowsy woman trying to travel by car on a long distance drive Other factors lead to distracted driving, and while these are not always the driver’s fault, the outcome is no less damaging. These elements include:

Driver Confusion

Rideshare drivers have a difficult job, which requires working long hours behind the wheel and navigating unfamiliar places while watching an app. Sometimes, their confusion over directions might lead to sudden turns or stops, with the potential for accidents. Furthermore, the app itself might be a distraction while they are driving.

Driver Fatigue

Nothing erodes a driver’s concentration like fatigue, and many rideshare workers feel it sometimes. For many, it’s their sole income source, meaning they spend many hours on the road. Tiredness and driving can kill.

If these elements combine with others, such as poor vehicle maintenance, you might become a rideshare accident victim. In this case, contact a rideshare accident attorney who can guide you toward the best settlement.

Face Your Claim With The Right Help

Taking on a rideshare accident claim caused by distracted driving can require a rideshare accident lawyer to level the playing field.

An attorney will advocate for your rights, gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and build a strong case that holds the distracted rideshare driver accountable for their actions.

By working with a lawyer, you can focus on your recovery and leave the legal headaches to those who have your best interests at heart.

Get a Free Consultation Today

If you have suffered an injury in a rideshare accident caused by distracted driving, do not hesitate to reach out to a personal injury lawyer near you. Most attorneys offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss the specifics of your case and get experienced advice on the best course of action.

Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a personal injury claim. Contact a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights, seek fair compensation, and hold the distracted rideshare driver accountable for their negligence.

Hiring a personal injury attorney is the first step towards pursuing the compensation you deserve for your rideshare accident.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!