Rideshare accidents can be confusing and complex. With multiple parties involved and varying forms of insurance coverage, the stress they bring can be overwhelming when prioritizing recovery. A Waynesboro rideshare accident lawyer can help you navigate this situation and relieve some of the stress associated with it.
At MartinWren, P.C., we have helped thousands of clients recover millions in damages for their injuries. We believe that you deserve an attorney who will stop at nothing to fight for you. Our Waynesboro personal injury lawyer is here to fight for the justice you deserve.
Rideshare Accidents are Legally Complicated
The technicalities and legal nuances that accompany rideshare accidents leave many stressed and confused. Since rideshare drivers are typically independent contractors for major corporations, multiple insurance policies may apply, making it challenging to determine who is responsible for what.
The types of coverage and who is responsible for them may also depend on the driver’s status at the time of the accident, further complicating liability. A Waynesboro car accident lawyer can evaluate your case and determine who is financially responsible to ensure you are pursuing action against the correct entity.
Insurance companies often try to dispute responsibility in hopes of limiting the amount they are responsible for paying out. They often use legal loopholes and employ high-pressure tactics to convince victims to accept less than they deserve. Working with a rideshare accident lawyer in Waynesboro means you have an advocate on your side to prevent this.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call (434) 817-3100
How Rideshare Insurance Coverage Works
Insurance coverage in rideshare accidents can be confusing. Depending on whether a driver has a rider in the vehicle, coverage provided by the rideshare company can vary. This is one of the many reasons a rideshare accident requires the assistance of an experienced attorney.
App is Off
If the driver is using their vehicle for personal use, the rideshare company may not be required to provide any sort of insurance coverage. Any accident that occurs would fall under the driver’s personal auto insurance provider.
App is On, Waiting for a Request
If a driver has the app on but has not accepted a ride yet, some rideshare companies may provide limited liability coverage. This generally includes $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage and $25,000 in property damage coverage. However, it may vary by company.
App is On, En Route to a Passenger, or Currently in an Active Ride
If a driver has accepted a ride and is either on their way to the passenger or has them in the vehicle, the rideshare company may provide up to $1 million in liability insurance in addition to uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Understanding who is financially liable after an accident with a rideshare driver is essential in filing your claim. This allows you and your attorney to pursue action against the correct party rather than wasting time going after the wrong entity.
Driver Distraction Leads to Accidents
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation. This is even more true for rideshare drivers, who often have more distractions than other drivers typically do.
As part of the job, rideshare drivers are required to use their phones to accept rides, utilize GPS, and communicate with riders. This, coupled with the distraction of navigating unfamiliar areas, conversing with passengers, and watching for pedestrians, can create difficulties for rideshare drivers.
Distracted driving is negligent driving, and if you have been injured by a rideshare driver, you deserve a Waynesboro rideshare accident attorney who will fight on your behalf to ensure you are properly compensated for what you’ve experienced.
Waynesboro Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (434) 817-3100
You May Be Entitled to More than You Think
Rideshare accidents can cause serious, long-term harm physically, emotionally, and financially. You were the victim and should not be responsible for covering those costs. Working with a qualified attorney can give you peace of mind knowing that you understand how to take legal action after an accident. Common recoverable damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatments, such as surgeries
- Ongoing therapies such as physical therapy and rehabilitation for serious injuries
- Adaptive equipment if injuries leave you disabled
- Loss of income
- Loss of earning potential if your injuries affect your career
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
If you were the victim of an accident, you deserve proper representation, and working with a rideshare accident attorney in Waynesboro ensures you have a dedicated advocate on your team.
Time is Limited to File a Claim, So You Must Act Quickly
In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the crash (Va. Code § 8.01-243). Barring specific circumstances, such as the victim being a minor, waiting beyond two years to file a claim can result in you losing your ability to recover damages.
The sooner you start the process, the better it looks for your case. Evidence is most effective when it is gathered early on. Witnesses can be difficult to locate, traffic cam and other video footage may be deleted, memories may fade, and physical damage to property and surroundings may be repaired. Losing these key pieces of evidence can be detrimental to your case.
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MartinWren, P.C., is Here to Provide the Advocacy You Deserve
If you were the victim of a crash involving a rideshare driver, it can be stressful, scary, and confusing knowing where to start. At MartinWren, P.C., we fight tirelessly for justice.
Our Waynesboro rideshare accident attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today to schedule your free, no obligation consultation. We’ll handle the legal side, you focus on recovery.
Call (434) 817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form