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The ease of calling a rideshare, such as Uber or Lyft, means that you can avoid parking hassles or enjoy alcoholic beverages and get home safely. However, even with rideshare options, there’s still a chance you could wind up in an accident while in an Uber or Lyft vehicle.

You may know what to do when you get into a crash in your own vehicle, but what happens when rideshare drivers get into an accident? Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP provides comprehensive legal representation for those involved in a rideshare accident as well as other motor vehicle accidents in Madison.

We have over 35 years of experience helping the injured in these types of accidents and have recovered over $200 million in compensation for our clients. Our passionate, award-winning attorneys believe in doing their best to help people with a Madison personal injury claim make things right.

With a proven track record of success and our commitment to getting to know our clients, you can count on our rideshare accident attorneys. Contact our Madison personal injury law firm today for a free initial consultation to discuss your rideshare accident.

Legal Implications of Rideshare Car Accidents

It is important to understand that a rideshare accident isn’t like any other car accident. When you are in a car accident while driving your vehicle, you will need to deal with the other driver’s personal insurance company. That can be a huge challenge as most insurers are not eager to part with money.

When you’re involved in a crash while in a rideshare vehicle, your insurance claim will need to involve the rideshare company and the rideshare driver. Whether you’re in an Uber or Lyft accident, the rideshare companies have their own insurance policies and insurance coverage that will apply to your settlement.

What Makes Car Accidents with Rideshare Drivers a Challenge?

Rideshare drivers operate differently than drivers who work in public transportation or drive taxi cabs. The biggest difference is that rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles to transport passengers.

Their personal insurance coverage does not apply in an accident unless they are driving without the rideshare app activated. The insurance coverage in these accidents is provided by the rideshare entities.

Despite this, rideshare drivers are not required to undergo training or have regular safety inspections. While rideshare options are a convenient way to get from place to place, it can be especially difficult to recover compensation on your own if an accident occurs in a rideshare vehicle.

Since the rideshare drivers are independent contractors rather than employees, it can be a greater challenge to file a claim for your personal injury. Additionally, many people driving for these companies are doing it to earn a second income. They may be drowsy while driving, making them more likely to crash.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Car Accident

If a rideshare driver is involved in a crash while you are a passenger, it is important to know the steps you should take. Knowing what to do can help make your personal injury case go more smoothly.

Uber and Lyft are also backed by legal teams that protect their profits. It is in your best interest to work with accident lawyers that understand these complexities to protect your legal rights.

Report the Rideshare Accident

Your rideshare driver should call 911, especially if there are injuries. If they are too injured or they refuse to call, take the initiative and make the call yourself.

Seek Medical Attention for Injuries

There are some injuries that will be obvious, such as lacerations or broken bones. However, even if you do not have any visible injuries, it is imperative to get medical care right away. You may have a traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding that can worsen and even become life-threatening.

Additionally, going to the hospital, urgent care, or doctor for treatment ensures that you have medical records to serve as documentation of the personal injuries that you sustained in the crash.

Exchange Information

Exchange contact information with the other drivers involved in the accident. You will want the driver of your rideshare to provide their contact information as well since you will need to report the accident to the rideshare entity.

Contact an Experienced Attorney to Discuss Your Injuries

Whether you were a passenger that was injured while riding with a rideshare driver or you were driving your car and suffered injuries and property damage due to the negligence of a rideshare driver, it is vital to consult an experienced attorney.

Accidents that involve a driver from one of these rideshare companies can be very complex. You should contact an attorney to ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve for your damages.

How Gingras Thomsen & Wachs, LLP Can Help with Your Personal Injury Claim in a Rideshare Accident

When you are in a car accident while in a rideshare vehicle, the best way to protect your rights is with the help of experienced accident lawyers. The attorneys at the law firm of Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP are well versed in the complications that arise in this type of accident that can make it more difficult for you to get a settlement.

We help by doing the following:

  • Investigating the cause of the accident
  • Looking into the background of the driver and their driving history
  • Developing strong strategies to help maximize your settlement
  • Gathering evidence to prove negligence
  • Obtaining witness statements
  • Using our resources to get expert witness testimony
  • Negotiating on your behalf
  • Supporting you throughout the duration of the legal process

Our law firm has been helping victims like you get their lives back on track after personal injury accidents for well over three decades. With an unwavering commitment to seeking justice, we have obtained many millions of dollars for our clients.

It is likely that you have many questions about whether you have a valid legal claim and what to do next. We encourage you to schedule a free consultation where you can ask these questions of our accident lawyers and learn about your legal options.

Nationally Recognized Law Firm