Uber & Lyft: Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Philadelphia
If you were injured in an accident while using rideshare services, you should not have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence.
At Gay Chacker & Ginsburg Trial Lawyers, we understand the frustration and stress that rideshare accident victims go through. We also know that rideshare companies have insurance that can help cover the costs of medical treatment and other expenses.
However, Uber and Lyft have been known to deny claims and fight to keep their insurance companies from covering any damages. That is why you need an experienced rideshare accident lawyer on your side.
At Gay Chacker & Ginsburg Trial Lawyers, our attorneys are well-versed in rideshare accident law and can help you seek the compensation you deserve. We can also help you fight to hold the liable party accountable for their actions.
Our goal is to help you move forward with your life and focus on healing and recovery. We can help you do that by fighting for you in and out of court.
Who Is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?
In Pennsylvania, liability for a rideshare accident can vary based on the circumstances of the accident. The primary parties that may be held liable include:
- Rideshare Driver: If the rideshare driver’s negligence or recklessness caused the accident, they may be held personally liable. Negligent actions could include distracted driving, speeding, running red lights, or any other violation of traffic laws.
- Other Motorists: If another driver’s actions contributed to the accident, that driver may be held liable. This could include drivers of other vehicles involved in the collision.
- Rideshare Company: Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft may also be held liable under certain circumstances. These companies typically have insurance coverage that applies when the rideshare driver is actively using the app and carrying passengers. The rideshare company may be held liable if their driver’s actions fall within the scope of their employment, such as during a passenger pick-up or drop-off.
- Third Parties: Liability may also extend to third parties, such as a maintenance company responsible for the vehicle’s upkeep, or a manufacturer if a defective part or mechanical failure contributed to the accident.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex, and it often requires a thorough investigation of the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. Pennsylvania is a “choice no-fault” insurance state, meaning that drivers have the option to choose between no-fault or traditional insurance coverage. In a no-fault system, each driver’s insurance typically covers their own medical expenses and other economic losses, regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
It’s important for those involved in a rideshare accident to:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to law enforcement.
- Obtain contact information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver and any witnesses.
- Document the scene of the accident with photos if possible.
- Contact the rideshare company to report the incident.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Pennsylvania, consulting with a personal injury attorney is a must. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Common Rideshare Accident Injuries
Common injuries resulting from rideshare accidents are similar to those in other types of motor vehicle accidents, but the severity may vary depending on the circumstances of the collision. Here are some common rideshare accident injuries:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward. It is common in rear-end collisions.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), can occur if a passenger’s head makes contact with a hard surface during the accident.
- Broken Bones: Fractures and broken bones can result from the force of impact during a rideshare accident.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the back and spinal cord can range from strains and sprains to more severe injuries like herniated discs or spinal cord damage.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as contusions, bruises, and muscle strains, are common in accidents where there is sudden impact or force.
- Internal Injuries: The force of an accident can cause internal injuries to organs, leading to bleeding or other serious health issues.
- Psychological Injuries: Emotional distress and psychological injuries, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can result from the trauma of a rideshare accident.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass or other sharp objects in the vehicle can cause cuts and lacerations during an accident.
- Burns: In rare cases, burns can occur if the accident involves a fire or explosion.
- Assault: Unfortunately, some rideshare journeys result in assaults, where passengers may face physical or sexual aggression. These incidents can leave lasting emotional and physical scars, necessitating legal intervention to address the wrongdoing and seek compensation.
It’s important to note that the severity of injuries can vary widely, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s crucial for individuals involved in rideshare accidents to seek prompt medical attention, even if they do not believe their injuries are severe. Additionally, documenting injuries and seeking legal advice can be important steps in the aftermath of a rideshare accident.
How a Philadelphia Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help
Rideshare companies are liable for accidents that happen when their drivers are providing rideshare services. If you were injured in an accident while an Uber or Lyft driver was providing rideshare services, then the driver, the rideshare company, the driver’s personal insurance company, or another party’s insurance may carry some liability for the damages you suffered. But you may need help getting the compensation you deserve.
At Gay Chacker & Ginsburg Trial Lawyers, we know how to investigate rideshare accident claims and can help you file a claim against all parties that may be liable for your damages.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers
If you were injured in an accident while using rideshare services, then you deserve to be fairly compensated for your damages. Our rideshare accident attorneys can help you fight for the compensation you deserve and can represent you in and out of court.
