The Importance of Hiring a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Ohio
According to the latest statistics, Uber provided 9.44 billion trips in the United States in 2023, compared with 7.64 billion in 2022, averaging 23 million daily rides. However, this increase has also led to a concerning rise in ride-sharing car accidents.
Unlike regular motor vehicle accidents, where the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers settlements, determining liability in ride-sharing accidents can be complicated, especially if the driver is off duty or at fault. Handling such cases independently can quickly lead to confusion regarding claim payouts.
It’s crucial to note that a universal insurance policy does not cover rideshare drivers. Coverage varies based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident, potentially involving their personal insurance, the rideshare company’s insurance, or a combination of both. A rideshare accident lawyer can elucidate your rights and potential compensation based on the driver’s status.
Accidents involving other vehicles can significantly complicate the claim process. The comparative negligence doctrine in Ohio allocates fault percentages among the parties involved.
If other vehicles or drivers bear more fault than the Uber driver, your claim might necessitate filing with the other party’s insurance rather than the rideshare company’s. However, if your rideshare driver is found at fault, logged into the app at the time of the accident, and has accepted a passenger or route to pick up a passenger, then Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy becomes liable for damages.
Ride-Sharing Accidents
Companies like Uber, Lyft, and Grab are prominent examples of ride-sharing platforms that connect drivers with passengers through smartphone applications. These apps facilitate matching drivers and passengers based on their location, destination, and other preferences, making it easy for individuals to find and share rides in real time.
The reasons for ride-sharing accidents include, but are not limited to, recklessness, distracted driving, unsafe weather, and fatigue.
Common Types of Rideshare Accidents and Handling Procedures
Rideshare accidents can encompass various scenarios, each with its unique severity and resulting injuries. Among the most prevalent types are:
- Side Swipe Accidents
- T-bone Accidents
- Hit-and-run Accidents
- Rear-end Accidents
- Single-car Accidents
- Multi-vehicle Accidents
These accidents may involve rideshare vehicles with only a driver or with both a driver and passengers. Regardless of the situation, prioritizing safety and seeking medical attention is paramount following any accident.
Complexity in determining liability
In Ohio, as in other at-fault states, liability determination hinges on individual accident factors. Therefore, the responsible party typically becomes liable. To pursue compensation in an at-fault state like Ohio, initiating a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver is necessary. A successful outcome depends on substantiating the driver’s fault with evidence and legal procedures.
After experiencing a rideshare accident, safeguarding yourself and your legal rights is imperative. Firstly, report the accident to the police to create an official record, which will serve as crucial evidence for your claim. Secondly, seek medical attention promptly, even if you feel uninjured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Additionally, notify the rideshare company about the accident, but be cautious when communicating with their representatives and avoid providing detailed statements.
Instead, refer them to your lawyer for further discussion. Lastly, document the accident scene by taking photos and videos and collecting contact information from eyewitnesses. These proactive measures will help safeguard your interests and support your claim for compensation following a rideshare accident.
Without legal representation, it can be challenging to determine the true value of your claim or accept a settlement offer that doesn’t fully cover your losses. A skilled rideshare accident lawyer can make sure you get what you deserve.
A qualified rideshare accident lawyer in Ohio can handle negotiations with insurance companies and other parties involved in the case. Insurance adjusters are trained professionals who want to settle claims as quickly and cheaply as possible, often at the expense of injured people.