Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft provide convenient transportation options. However, their unique ride arrangements also introduce several accident risks compared to traditional driving scenarios. From passenger loading incidents to distracted driving crashes, rideshare users face hazards.
It is important to know your rights as a driver if an accident occurs. With insights into building a strong case and maximizing compensation through insurance claims or litigation, you can make informed decisions and obtain fair damage recovery. A Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer can help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Types of Accidents that Happen During Ridesharing
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have unique risks, resulting in different types of accidents compared to traditional driving. Understanding common occurrences helps determine liability. Passenger injuries during pickup and drop-off are frequent, where sudden movements cause falls or door collisions with vehicles and objects.
Accidents also occur when loading mobility devices due to a lack of driver assistance. Distracted driving is a common cause of accidents, as drivers focus on directions, ride requests, and passengers. This divided focus can lead to rear endings, going in the wrong lane, and running signals or stop signs.
Other accidents can be the fault of another driver. Rideshare drivers face added risks from reckless drivers cutting them off or drifting into their lane, especially when frequent pulling over and merging increases exposure. No matter if the accident was the fault of your driver or another car, you will be covered.
Common Rideshare Accident Claims
Injured passengers may have viable personal injury claims if the rideshare driver’s negligent behavior directly caused the crash, such as texting while driving, speeding, or erratic maneuvers. The rideshare company’s insurance policy would likely cover resulting damages up to the defined coverage limits, though often these limits are too low to fully compensate for severe injuries. Submitting claims through other policies may be necessary, but your rideshare accident lawyer in Pennsylvania can help you with this.
If a defective auto part in the rideshare vehicle contributed to or worsened the accident, such as failed brakes or worn tires, the manufacturer of that component could face a product liability claim alleging negligence in design or quality control. This can create a complex legal process. This type of case would likely need technical analysis to confirm if the defective component played a direct role in causing the crash.
For multi-vehicle accidents, claims may be brought against another driver who negligently caused the crash if their direct actions are proven to be the cause. Some actions could include texting or intoxication, leading to dangerous driving. That driver’s insurance would typically be pursued first for compensation.
Pennsylvania Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (215) 985-2424
How to Provide Proof for a Rideshare Accident for the Different Scenarios
When filing injury claims after rideshare accidents, evidence is like the lifeline of your case. You will need police reports, medical records, and documentation of injuries and losses. All of this proof will help support your claim.
For distracted driving allegations, you must prove the driver was on the phone. If you know this for sure, the police or your lawyer can obtain phone records showing texts, calls, or apps used by the driver at the time of the crash. Eyewitness statements can also confirm erratic or distracted driving to prove liability.
If defective parts caused the accident, an expert analysis of the failure will be needed. The driver will also need to show maintenance records showing whether issues were previously reported. Photos of damage also can prove that parts were not functioning properly, depending on the issue.
When There Are Multiple Defendants
Rideshare accident cases often involve potential liability among multiple parties. They can include the driver, rideshare company, and other drivers. This can complicate claims.
Filing against just the driver may result in inadequate compensation if their personal insurance has low limits. Including the rideshare company introduces additional legal strategy. If product defects are also alleged, the manufacturer of the part must be included, which involves sophisticated technical investigation and arguments.
If the accident involved another negligent driver who shares fault, deciding whether to pursue damages from them brings strategic considerations regarding settlement versus litigation. An experienced Pennsylvania rideshare accident lawyer can analyze all parties’ liability and handle the complexities of multi-defendant claims to maximize the total recovery. An attorney can determine which parties to include, what evidence to put forth, and whether a settlement or court action is preferable given the specific circumstances.
Statutes of Limitations to Be Aware of in Pennsylvania
When pursuing injury claims after a rideshare accident, you must meet the strict statutes of limitations. Missing key deadlines could completely rid your ability to get compensation. It is important to file your claim as soon as you can.
Specifically, for accidents caused by a negligent rideshare driver, the personal injury statute of limitations is two years from the date of the crash under 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524. However, different rules can come into play, depending on the circumstances of your case. Your attorney can advise you on potential extensions or restrictions.
It is also important to remember that the two-year timeframe starts from the accident date, not when you get a lawyer. It is a common misconception that the timeframe starts when you begin building your case. Working with a Pennsylvania rideshare accident attorney is vital to ensure no statutes of limitations or exceptions are overlooked when filing your claim.
Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Rideshare Crash
If you or a loved one got hurt in a rideshare accident, our dedicated team is here to help. We have extensive experience representing rideshare passengers and drivers in obtaining compensation after these complex crashes. A rideshare accident attorney in Pennsylvania will thoroughly investigate liability, fully document your losses, and aggressively pursue damages from all appropriate at-fault parties.
We understand this is an extremely difficult time. Let our compassionate team handle the legal complexities and negotiations with insurance providers and corporations while you focus on your recovery. Contact us for a free consultation and see what the next step you should take to get the most out of your case.
Call or text (215) 985-2424 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
