Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing convenient transportation options for millions of people. However, accidents can still occur, and these incidents can have long-term effects for those involved. 

Injuries from rideshare accidents can be serious and painful, making it difficult for the victims to face the complicated legal aftermath of an accident, which is why victims must seek an Augusta rideshare accident lawyer. The medical bills from severe injuries are overwhelming, and injuries might result in long-term disabilities. Losing your physical independence is just one part of the story—losing access to work and future income can also be life-changing.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, contact an attorney near you with experience handling Uber or Lyft collision claims. They can provide the necessary guidance and fight for the compensation you deserve to help cover the long-term costs associated with the injuries — some of these can be huge.

Consult a rideshare accident lawyer now for more information.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!

What Are The Long-Term Costs Of Injuries From Rideshare Accidents?

After rideshare accidents, the immediate impact may be evident, such as physical injuries and vehicle damage. However, the long-term costs of these injuries can often be overlooked or underestimated.

You must consider the potential long-term consequences when seeking compensation for your rideshare accident injuries. Some of these long-term costs that victims may face include:

Medical Expenses

Rideshare accidents can lead to severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, hospital stays, medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. The cost of these medical expenses can quickly add up.

Loss of Income

If you are out of work due to your injuries, you may experience a loss of income. Naturally, it financially impacts you and your family, especially if you are one of the primary breadwinners.

Future Medical Care

Future Medical Care

In some cases, injuries sustained in an accident may require ongoing medical care and treatment. It can include follow-up surgeries, therapy, medication, and assistive devices. Your treatment expenses can continue to pile up, so calculating accurate future medical costs will ensure you receive fair compensation.

Emotional Trauma

A rideshare accident can be a traumatic experience that can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional injuries can have long-lasting effects on a person’s well-being and require therapy and counseling.

Reduced Quality of Life

Severe injuries from rideshare accidents can result in a diminished quality of life. Victims may experience limitations in mobility, chronic pain, and disabilities that affect their ability to perform daily activities and enjoy life fully.

The long-term costs of rideshare accidents can vary depending on the severity of the injuries and the individual circumstances. Seeking legal representation from a rideshare accident lawyer can ensure all these long-term costs are considered when pursuing compensation.

Your Injuries Determine Your Settlement

Understanding the full value of your injuries can be challenging, especially in the immediate aftermath of an accident. The severity of your injuries significantly affects the potential compensation you may be entitled to. Here are five common severe rideshare accident injuries that can have long-term costs.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

TBIs occur when a person’s head sustains a severe blow or jolt, leading to brain dysfunction. They can bring extensive long-term costs, including ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy to regain cognitive and physical abilities.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Rideshare accidents can result in spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis or partial loss of function. These injuries often require lifelong medical care and accommodations such as adaptive equipment and home modifications.

Orthopedic Problems

Fractures, broken bones, dislocated joints, and other orthopedic injuries are common in rideshare accidents. These injuries can lead to surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care to manage pain and restore functionality.

Mental Health and Psychological Damage

Rideshare accidents can cause significant emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Long-term therapy and counseling may be necessary to address these psychological injuries.

Internal Organ Damage

Internal Organ DamageSome rideshare accidents can result in severe internal organ damage, requiring surgeries, long-term medical monitoring, and ongoing treatment.

Consult a rideshare accident attorney to ensure the full extent and long-term costs of your injuries are considered in settlement negotiations. They will work with medical experts and other professionals to accurately assess the value of your injuries.

How Injuries Lead to Damages

In a personal injury case, tort law sets out the process of seeking compensation for preventable injuries caused by another person’s or entity’s negligence. With all car or rideshare accidents, there are three main categories of damages: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are the actual financial losses you incur as a result of the accident. These can include:

  • Medical expenses. This category includes hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any other necessary medical treatments.
  • Lost income. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you should have earned during that time.
  • Loss of earning capacity. If your injuries result in long-term or permanent disabilities, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of future earning capacity.
  • Property damage. If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged or destroyed in the accident, you can seek compensation for repairs or replacement.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are the intangible losses you experience as a result of the accident. These can include:

  • Pain and suffering. Compensation for the physical and emotional pain endured as a result of the accident and injuries.
  • Emotional distress. Compensation for the psychological and emotional effects of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
  • Loss of consortium. If the accident affects your ability to have a normal relationship with your spouse or partner, you may be entitled to compensation.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life. If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, you can seek compensation for losing enjoyment of life.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages apply in cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct. These damages aim to punish the at-fault party instead of addressing specific losses. You must file a lawsuit to seek punitive damages.

Work with a rideshare accident attorney who can accurately assess the value of your damages and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.

How Distracted Rideshare Drivers Cause Accidents

Rideshare drivers regularly engage in distracted driving, as their unique working environment naturally contributes to distractions on the road. The following factors can lead to distracted rideshare driving.

  • Texting on a smartphone
  • Reaching for something in the car
  • Using the rideshare app
  • Playing with clothing
  • Talking with other passengers
  • Following navigation systems
  • Food or beverage consumption
  • Yawning or stretching
  • Looking at things outside the vehicle
  • Applying makeup
  • Changing the car stereo or playlist

These distractions can take a rideshare driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Your attorney can identify when a distracted rideshare driver was to blame for your crash. Gathering evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, or dashcam footage, can help establish fault and support your claim.

Insurance Companies Won’t Cover All Your Costs

Insurance companies are primarily focused on minimizing costs, so they commonly lowball, stall, or even dismiss claims. They may offer settlement amounts that do not accurately reflect the long-term costs associated with your injuries. Hiring an experienced rideshare accident attorney can ensure insurance companies are fully accountable and you receive fair compensation for all your costs.

A rideshare accident lawyer will have the experience to negotiate with insurance companies and fight for your rights. They will thoroughly assess your case, calculate the full extent of your damages, and advocate on your behalf. A skilled attorney will maximize the potential of your claim and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Questions to Consider for Rideshare Accident Victims

If you have been in a rideshare accident, there are several important questions to consider.

  • Was the Rideshare Driver Actually on the Clock? If the driver was using the rideshare app, it will affect how insurance coverage works.
  • Who Was To Blame? It may not always be the rideshare driver who is negligent, so knowing who caused the accident is pertinent.
  • Can I Prove the Rideshare Driver Was Liable? Evidence like dashcam footage, witness statements, or police reports can help prove the driver’s liability and help your settlement.
  • Do I Have Evidence of My Injuries? Keeping a record of your injuries and showing medical intervention is necessary to launch a claim against injuries.
  • Did I Seek Medical Attention Immediately After the Incident? Getting swift medical attention after a rideshare accident is important. The longer you wait to get treatment, the harder it is to prove your injuries stemmed from the accident.
  • Can I Still Live My Normal Life? Have your injuries impacted your ability to work and everyday life? If your life and ability to work have suffered due to your injuries, you can reclaim your present and future losses.
  • Whose Insurance Covers the Accident? Rideshare companies’ insurance coverage depends on whether the driver is on active duty or waiting for a client. An attorney will help you understand which insurance policy determines your potential compensation.
  • Am I Prepared to File a Lawsuit? Only an attorney has the necessary experience to file a strong lawsuit. Suing the rideshare company or driver may be the best path forward to compensating your damages. 

Seeking the guidance of a rideshare accident attorney can help you address these questions and ensure that your rights are protected.

What Can a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Do For Me?

A rideshare accident lawyer is your best ally when seeking fair compensation for your injuries. They understand the nature of rideshare accident cases and know the tactics insurance companies may use to minimize settlements. Here are some ways a rideshare accident lawyer can help.

  • Evaluating your case. A skilled attorney will assess the details of your accident, determine liability, and evaluate the potential value of your claim.
  • Gathering evidence. An attorney will gather evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, surveillance footage, and medical records, to support your case.
  • Negotiating with insurance companies. A rideshare accident lawyer will handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf.
  • Calculating damages. An attorney will accurately calculate the economic and non-economic damages you have suffered, considering both immediate and long-term costs.
  • Advocating for your rights. A lawyer will fight for your rights and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
  • Representing you in court. If your case goes to trial, a rideshare accident lawyer will represent you in court and present a strong case on your behalf.

With a rideshare accident lawyer by your side, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your legal rights are being protected.

No-Win, No-Fee Agreements

contingency fee agreement.

One of the concerns many accident victims have is the cost of hiring a rideshare accident attorney. Fortunately, many injury lawyers work on a no-win-no-fee basis, also known as a contingency fee agreement. This agreement means you will not have to worry about upfront legal fees or expenses. If your attorney does not win your case, you will not owe them anything.

A no-win, no-fee agreement provides financial peace of mind, allowing you to seek the legal representation you need without adding any financial burden. Your attorney will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome for your case, knowing that their payment is contingent upon a favorable resolution.

Call for a Free Consultation with a Rideshare Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, it simply makes sense to contact an Augusta personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact an attorney near you today to schedule a free consultation wherein you can discuss the details of your case, ask any questions you may have, and learn more about your legal rights and options.

Don’t wait — take the first step toward financial peace of mind by seeking the help of a rideshare accident lawyer. Regain control of your future, and call for a free consultation.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!