Dawsonville Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyers
The ease and convenience of Uber and Lyft have made these rideshare services increasingly popular in Dawsonville and throughout Georgia. But as their usage has risen, so too have accidents involving rideshare vehicles. Knowing what to do in the aftermath of these accidents can be difficult due to the liability and insurance scenarios at play.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident in Dawsonville, Spaulding Injury Law is here to guide you through this challenging process.
Why Choose Spaulding Injury Law for Your Rideshare Accident Claim?
While a fair settlement is the goal, there are times when preparing for a trial gives you the best outcome. With years of experience and millions recovered for accident victims in Georgia, Spaulding Injury Law is ready to fight for the compensation you rightly deserve.
Lead attorney Theodore A. Spaulding has been recognized among the Top 100 trial lawyers in Georgia. His extensive experience and accolades guarantee your case is in capable hands.
What Makes Uber & Lyft Accidents Different?
Rideshare accidents present unique challenges compared to standard vehicular accidents.
Complex Insurance Coverage
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft operate under unique insurance policies, which change depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
- Waiting for a Ride Request: When the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride request, they’re often only covered by their personal car insurance. If an accident occurs in this phase, the rideshare company’s insurance might not offer coverage.
- En Route & During a Trip: Once a driver accepts a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger, or when a passenger is in the vehicle, the coverage generally shifts to the rideshare company’s $1 million liability policy. This covers damages to the other party if the rideshare driver is at fault.
If an Uber driver, while waiting for a ride request, collides with another vehicle, the driver’s personal insurance is the primary source of compensation. However, if the same accident happens while transporting a passenger, Uber’s $1 million policy comes into play.
Multiple Possible Liable Parties
Rideshare accidents aren’t always straightforward when it comes to determining who’s at fault. Liability can be divided among several parties.
- Rideshare Driver: If the rideshare driver was negligent or reckless, they could be held liable.
- Another Driver: In cases where another driver causes the accident, their insurance would be the primary source of compensation.
- Rideshare Company: If there’s an issue with the company’s hiring practices, vehicle maintenance, or app functionality, the company itself could be held accountable.
Imagine an accident caused by an Uber driver who was distracted by a glitch in the Uber app. In this case, both the driver and Uber could share liability – the driver for not paying attention and Uber for the malfunctioning app.
Giant Tech Corporations
Uber and Lyft are massive tech corporations with powerful resources at their disposal, often making it challenging for individuals to pursue claims.
These companies have experienced legal teams whose primary goal is to minimize the company’s responsibility and payout. Their deep pockets can allow them to draw out legal proceedings, hoping plaintiffs will settle for less or drop their claims due to exhaustion. Their insurance policies can also be intricate and full of nuances that they might use to attempt to deny claims.
For example, after an accident, a Lyft passenger might immediately be contacted by Lyft’s insurance adjusters, offering a quick, lowball settlement. Without proper representation, the injured party might accept this offer, not realizing they’re entitled to much more.
You need to have knowledgeable representation when dealing with rideshare accidents. With the right guidance, you can get the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Ridesharing has transformed transportation in many cities, including Dawsonville. While these services offer undeniable convenience, they also come with unique challenges that can sometimes lead to accidents on the road.
One of the primary reasons behind rideshare accidents is distracted driving. Given the nature of their job, rideshare drivers are often glued to their apps, toggling between GPS routes, accepting new ride requests, or reading messages from passengers. This constant app usage can take their attention from the road, making them more susceptible to distractions and potential collisions.
Also, the life of a rideshare driver can be exhausting. Many are behind the wheel for extended periods, sometimes juggling ridesharing with other jobs to make ends meet. This prolonged driving can lead to fatigue, slower reaction times, and impaired judgment, all of which can increase the risk of accidents.
One of the perks of ridesharing is the ability to travel to different locations on request. However, this also means that rideshare drivers often find themselves on unfamiliar roads. When driving down unknown roads or neighborhoods, there’s a level of uncertainty. This can lead to hesitations, wrong turns, or misjudgments, especially when the driver is overly reliant on GPS systems, which aren’t always accurate.
Common Injuries Suffered in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. The severity of these injuries depends on the speed of the vehicles involved, the point of impact, and the safety features of the car. Here’s an overview of some of the most common injuries suffered in rideshare accidents:
- Whiplash: Often a result of rear-end collisions, whiplash is caused when the head and neck are suddenly and forcefully jerked backward and then forward. This rapid movement can strain or tear neck muscles and tendons, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the neck.
- Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): A sudden jolt or blow to the head can cause the brain to move inside the skull, leading to a concussion or, in more severe cases, a traumatic brain injury. Symptoms can range from mild headaches and dizziness to cognitive difficulties and altered consciousness.
- Broken Bones: The force of a collision can easily break or fracture bones, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone. Depending on the break’s severity, recovery can involve lengthy rehabilitation and, sometimes, surgical intervention.
- Lacerations and Abrasions: Broken glass, metal fragments, or the impact of the crash itself can cause deep cuts or surface scrapes. While some may be minor, deep lacerations can lead to blood loss or complications if not treated promptly.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to any part of the spinal cord can have serious consequences, potentially leading to reduced mobility or paralysis. These injuries are often a result of direct trauma to the spine during the accident.
- Internal Injuries: Not all injuries are immediately visible. The force of a crash can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, which can be life-threatening if not detected and treated quickly.
- Burns: In accidents where a vehicle catches fire or there’s an explosion, occupants can suffer burns ranging from first-degree to third-degree burns, requiring varying levels of treatment.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, many victims of rideshare accidents experience emotional distress. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or phobias related to driving or being in vehicles.
For anyone involved in a rideshare accident, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine right after the crash. Some injuries, especially internal ones, may not present symptoms right away.
How Can Spaulding Injury Law Assist You?
Identifying the responsible party or parties in a rideshare accident is the first step of any claim.
- Comprehensive Investigation: Our team conducts a review of accident scenes, analyzing evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness testimonies, and vehicle damage.
- Expert Consultations: We often consult with accident reconstruction experts who can piece together the events leading to a collision, providing clarity on who was at fault.
- Driver’s Status Check: Determining the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident (waiting for a ride, en route to a passenger, or during a trip) is next, as it impacts insurance liability.
Maximizing Your Compensation
We do a damage estimate for your case. We take into account not just immediate medical bills but future treatments, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Then, we will negotiate with the insurance companies to make sure you get what you truly deserve.
Court Representation
While we always aim for a fair settlement outside of court, our team is prepared to take the battle to the courtroom if necessary.
From the onset, we prepare each case as if it’s going to trial, so no stone is left unturned. Whether through negotiations or in court, our primary goal remains to secure justice for our clients.
For example, if the insurance company won’t cooperate and refuses a fair settlement, we wouldn’t hesitate to present your case before a jury, detailing the accident’s circumstances and showcasing the impact on your life.
With Spaulding Injury Law by your side, every step is taken with clarity, precision, and a commitment to securing the best outcome for you.
Don’t Wait – Georgia’s Statute of Limitations
In Georgia, you have only two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This period goes by quickly, and evidence can get lost and memories fade. Consult with our Dawsonville Uber & Lyft accident attorney immediately to make sure your claim stands the best chance.
Your Recovery is Our Priority
At Spaulding Injury Law, we’re dedicated to ensuring you get the best legal support. While the rideshare companies look out for their interests, we look out for yours. By choosing us, you’re selecting a committed partner to fight by your side.
For a free consultation, reach out to Spaulding Injury Law.
Our Dawsonville Uber and Lyft Accident Office in Cumming
Spaulding Injury Law: Cumming Personal Injury Lawyer is located close to you, in Downtown Cumming near UFA Soccer Fields and Cumming Polo Golf & Country Club.
Cumming Personal Injury Lawyers located at 5860 Bond St, Cumming, GA 30040, United States.