Lexington has major historical significance in the United States, and with that comes tourism. With tourism comes rideshares, and with rideshares comes increased risk of accidents. If you have been involved in a collision with a rideshare driver, a Lexington rideshare accident lawyer can help you recover damages that you are owed.
At MartinWren, P.C., we understand the challenges you may face after being involved in a rideshare accident, and we work tirelessly to fight for you. Since 2009, our team has helped clients secure fair settlements, and our Lexington personal injury lawyer is ready to do the same for you.
Obtaining Legal Counsel is Essential After an Accident
After any accident, talking to a car accident lawyer should be non-negotiable. Attorneys have knowledge gained through years of schooling and experience that can be a significant asset to victims. Our effective processes may lead to higher settlements than when victims handle the claims process on their own.
Your attorney understands how to effectively gather evidence that can be used to strengthen your case. From speaking with witnesses to analyzing police and medical reports and hiring expert witnesses such as accident reconstructionists, having a dedicated advocate makes a difference when it comes to your potential settlement offer.
Insurance companies often try to take advantage of victims who do not understand the legal system or the standards in Virginia. Your attorney will handle communication with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you are not accepting a lowball offer or being unfairly blamed for an accident that was not your fault.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call (434) 817-3100
Rideshare Drivers are Often Distracted
Rideshare drivers often have more distractions than the average driver, making them higher risk when on the road. These can include distractions such as:
- GPS use
- Texting riders through the app
- Phone calls with riders
- Using the app to accept, start, and conclude rides
- Having strangers who are possibly unruly in the vehicle
All of these distractions can reduce attentiveness to the road, putting other drivers and pedestrians at risk. If you have been involved in an accident with a rideshare driver, a Lexington car accident lawyer can help determine what your case may be worth.
How Rideshare Traffic has Changed Lexington Roads
Rideshare drivers may have different driving patterns than other motorists. Because they are constantly slowing down or stopping to pick up passengers, they may stop short, and even if you are following at an appropriate distance, an accident may occur. Additionally, they may fail to stop for cars ahead while scanning the sidewalks for riders.
Rideshares are often used by students and in areas with an increased nightlife. This can lead to congestion in these areas, pushing commuters to other nearby roads to avoid traffic. It also increases foot traffic and pedestrian activity in these busy areas.
As rideshare drivers search for their riders, they may frequently change lanes and make U-turns. If they drive negligently, these habits may cause accidents. If you have been injured, speaking with a rideshare accident lawyer in Lexington can help solidify your case and increase your final payout.
Lexington Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (434) 817-3100
Who May Be Affected by a Rideshare Accident
Rideshare accidents and their injuries are not limited to just drivers. While it is common for drivers to be injured when struck by a rideshare vehicle, there are many scenarios where those who are not operating a vehicle get hurt and may have a case.
Passengers are commonly injured in rideshare accidents. This includes passengers in the rideshare as well as passengers in other vehicles. In either scenario, a rider may be entitled to damages if they are harmed as a result of an accident.
Pedestrians and bicyclists are also commonly injured by rideshare drivers. Since rideshare vehicles are often found in areas with heavy foot traffic, it increases the likelihood of an accident with someone not in a motor vehicle.
Compensation Available After a Rideshare Accident
Multiple forms of compensation may be available after a rideshare accident. Common items include:
- Medical expenses
- Ongoing treatment needs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
A Lexington rideshare accident attorney can review your case and help you understand what damages you are likely entitled to, along with helping you build your case to secure the maximum settlement allowed.
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Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage in Virginia
Determining who is financially liable in an accident with a rideshare driver boils down to app status at the time of the crash. Whether the driver accepted a ride, was searching for one, or was using the vehicle for personal use all affect who is liable.
Driver is En Route to or Currently With a Rider
In this case, the rideshare company may be liable for up to $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This would apply to anyone involved in the accident.
The App is On, and the Driver is Waiting to Accept a Ride
If the driver is using the app but has not yet accepted a ride, limited liability insurance may be provided. This covers up to $50k per person and $100k per accident for bodily injury, along with $25k for property damage.
The App is Off, and the Vehicle is Being Used for Personal Use
If a rideshare driver is not on the job and is utilizing their vehicle for personal errands, the rideshare company may not be liable. In this instance, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy would be responsible for the costs.
Virginia law (Va. Code § 46.2-2099.52) requires rideshare companies to provide adequate insurance for their drivers. Understanding who is liable makes the process of recovering damages much smoother.
Choose MartinWren, P.C. as Your Dedicated Rideshare Accident Attorney in Lexington
After an accident with a rideshare driver, you deserve an advocate who will go above and beyond to ensure you get every penny you are entitled to.
At MartinWren, P.C., we believe that you are more than just a number, and we are prepared to work tirelessly for you. Call today to schedule your free, no-obligation case evaluation with a Lexington rideshare accident attorney.
Call (434) 817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
