You were looking for convenience when you chose a rideshare. What you didn't expect was the traumatizing experience of a crash. Now, your life is thrown into chaos because of an accident that wasn't your fault. You have your hands full trying to pay medical bills, file insurance claims, and recover from injuries -- all at the same time. This is not what you had in mind when you tapped your rideshare app to request a ride. The best thing you can do at this point is to contact a White Lake rideshare accidents lawyer as soon as possible to get help filing a personal injury claim.
At the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, we understand the stress of being a rideshare injury accident victim. We have a dedicated team of lawyers who've assisted White Lake residents as well as people throughout the state of Michigan in obtaining compensation for their injuries.
Our skilled legal team has the tools and know-how to defend your rights. We have laser-sharp focus when it comes to holding at-fault parties accountable.
You can get the legal help you need starting with these three simple steps:
Step 1. Schedule a Free Consultation – We start with understanding your story and how the accident has affected your life.
Step 2. Customized Strategy – Based on your unique situation, we'll develop a tailored approach to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
Step 3. Fight for You – Now you focus on your recovery. Meanwhile, we'll handle the legal battles and work to get you compensated.
Schedule your free consultation today at 248-886-8650 or email us. The sooner you seek help from a personal injury attorney, the more likely it is that you will get a fair outcome for your case.
If you forgo legal representation, you may end up being paid far less money than you deserve if you receive a payout at all. Too many accident victims don't know their rights and get weighed down with unfair financial burdens. Let us help you avoid these pitfalls.
You can secure full compensation with the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates by your side. If you're ready to finally settle your claim so you can move on with your life, contact our firm.
Ridesharing emerged in 2010 as a popular alternative to taxis. Services like Uber and Lyft have become the go-to transportation for many White Lake commuters. The service makes it easy for riders and drivers to connect via a website or smartphone app. Naturally, rideshare runs the same accident risks as any other vehicle on the road, and sometimes, the risk is even higher.
Recent statistics paint a shocking picture of the dangers of rideshare. Whether it's Uber, Lyft, or another provider, many people have suffered severe or fatal injuries due to ridesharing car accidents.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft revolutionized the way we travel. Millions benefit from the convenience. However, this innovation comes with its risks. The factors below contribute to many injuries and fatalities.
Driving While Distracted
Rideshare drivers get distracted like any other motorist. Uber or Lyft operators' inattention to the road is usually due to responding to ride requests on their smartphones. Other distractions include:
In the US, accidents involving inattentive Uber or Lyft drivers resulted in 424,000 injuries and over 3,100 fatalities in 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Driving in a manner that violates the safety of road users is known as reckless driving. Examples include:
Rideshare drivers may log long hours without taking regular breaks. A driver could be on the road for 7 to 12 hours daily. In some cases, they also hold down other jobs. These work hours can lead to excessive fatigue. Tired Uber and Lyft drivers are more likely to make mistakes or nod off, which can result in catastrophic collisions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that between 2013 and 2017, fatigued driving was a factor in 4,111 fatalities. Currently, Uber sets the maximum drive time to 12 hours with a required 6-hour break from being online.
Rideshare accidents occur for several reasons. The result is lives disrupted, dreams derailed, and families forever changed. An awareness of these hazards demands action from companies, drivers, and passengers alike.
Various injuries and losses arise from rideshare crashes. The most common consequences involving ridesharing vehicles include:
Rideshare accidents can result in physical injuries and significant property damage. The people who get injured often require medical attention as well as ongoing care.
There are actions to take following a rideshare accident that can safeguard your rights. Here are the key things to do:
Call 911, the White Lake Township Police Department, or another local law enforcement agency. A police officer will complete an accident report with details such as the following:
Take photos or video footage of the accident scene. Capture injuries, vehicle damage, street lights, stop signs, and skid marks.
Exchange names and contact details with everyone involved in the crash. This information should also include insurance details. Additionally, get the names and phone numbers of individuals who witnessed the accident when possible.
No matter how small or insignificant your injuries may seem, get medical assistance. Depending on the injury, you may need to visit an emergency room or dial 911.
Keep track of your medical documents and bills. You must document your injury severity, daily recovery journey, and medical care costs.
A free consultation gives you a chance to discuss your case. An attorney can give you insightful feedback on what to do if you want to take legal action.
Michigan has regulatory standards for how rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft operate. One of the primary laws addresses the specific insurance requirements for drivers. If you've been injured in a rideshare accident, it helps to understand how the state's insurance requirements apply to your situation.
Michigan's auto insurance follows a no-fault insurance system. Your auto insurance policy covers your medical expenses, wage loss benefits, and replacement services, regardless of who caused the accident. However, when a rideshare vehicle is involved, things can get complicated.
Michigan requires rideshare companies to provide insurance coverage for their drivers. The level of coverage depends on the driver's status at the time of the accident. These different levels play a role in determining who's responsible for covering your injuries and damages.
Michigan's no-fault system can get a little tricky. Rideshare insurance complicates matters even more. An Uber and Lyft attorney can help you figure out how to seek compensation from an insurer for your injuries.
Assigning blame in an Uber or Lyft vehicle collision has its challenges. Typically, several parties could be found liable. They include the following:
Rideshare crashes may have multiple at-fault parties. A thorough investigation investigation of the accident may be needed to bring all who contributed fault to justice. Uber and Lyft accident injury claims can provide victims with financial support to cover the full scope of their losses.
The days after a rideshare accident mark the beginning of a recovery period. This time comes with physical pain and emotional distress. Michigan's no-fault insurance system covers medical expenses and lost wages without needing to establish fault. However, it does not automatically compensate for pain and suffering, also known as non-economic damages. To claim this financial relief, you must meet specific criteria.
You can only sue for pain and suffering if you've suffered a "serious impairment of body function" or permanent disfigurement. You must prove your injuries had a profound impact on your ability to lead your everyday life. Here's an example:
Imagine Alex enjoys an active lifestyle involving hiking at Highland Recreation Area, skiing at Alpine Valley, and attending community events. Things changed when he sustained a complex leg fracture and back injury in an Uber accident. This crash led to a prolonged period of hospitalization and rehabilitation.
Post-accident, Alex dealt with chronic pain and major depression. He could no longer enjoy activities or perform daily routines without assistance.
To qualify for pain and suffering, you must provide proof such as the following:
Generally, you must seek these damages from the at-fault driver's insurance provider. In this scenario, hiring a skilled rideshare accident attorney would be helpful. They can compile the necessary evidence and present a persuasive argument for why you deserve payment for pain and suffering.
A White Lake rideshare accident attorney offers a range of legal services. They can you recover compensation in the following ways:
Your attorney will focus on gathering a wealth of evidence like the following:
This evidence illustrates the extent of your damages, which can help ensure you are able to get the maximum possible payout.
Uber or Lyft accident cases often settle out of court. A skilled attorney can negotiate for the highest possible sum of money. The lawyer may take the insurance company to trial if it doesn't offer a reasonable settlement.
Uber and Lyft disputes involve complex legal and regulatory issues. Your rideshare attorney will know how GPS technology, apps, and labor laws impact your case. Additionally, they remain current on what's going on in the ridesharing industry.
Your journey isn't just legal. It's also emotional. Our White Lake rideshare accident lawyers understands your stress, anger, fear, anxiety, and frustration. Your attorney can address your needs, respect your healing stages, and follow up with you throughout the legal proceedings.
What Are My Rights as a Rideshare Passenger?
White Lake rideshare passengers have the right to a safe journey. This includes being transported by drivers who are properly vetted and insured. After an accident, passengers can seek compensation from the at-fault party. The parties could be the rideshare company, driver, or another driver involved in the accident.
What Are My Responsibilities as a Rideshare Passenger?
Rideshare passengers should wear seatbelts, follow the rideshare driver's safety instructions, and report any unsafe driving behavior to the company. After an accident, document your injuries and any damage. Report the accident to the rideshare company and seek medical attention.
How Much Are Uber & Lyft Car Accident Settlements?
An Uber or Lyft car accident settlement varies based on the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and other losses incurred. Settlements are designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages. The specific amount depends on the circumstances of each case.
How Long Will It Take to Get My Settlement?
The timeline to receive a settlement from a rideshare crash can vary. It depends on the case's complexity, the extent of the injuries, the auto insurance companies involved, and whether a lawsuit is filed. Settlements can be reached in a few months. However, complex cases might take a year or longer.
What Is the Lawsuit Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Accidents?
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit for injuries sustained in a rideshare accident is generally three years from the accident date.
Should I accept a settlement offer from the insurance company?
Before accepting any settlement offer from an insurance company, consult a personal injury attorney. An attorney can determine whether the offer is enough to cover your injuries, damages, and any future expenses related to the accident.
Is there a difference in the legal process for Uber and Lyft accidents?
The legal process for Uber and Lyft accidents follows the same framework since both companies operate under Michigan's no-fault insurance laws. The services provide similar insurance coverage levels for their drivers and passengers. However, the specifics of your claim can vary based on the details of the accident and the insurance policies in effect at the time.
Can passengers of a rideshare vehicle be held liable for accidents?
Passengers of rideshare vehicles are rarely held liable for accidents. Liability typically falls on the drivers involved in the accident or, in some cases, the rideshare company. However, every accident is unique, and liability is determined based on the specifics of each case.
What if I'm hit by a rideshare driver while walking or biking?
You may be entitled to compensation under the driver's or the rideshare company's insurance policy, especially if the driver was at fault. Michigan's no-fault insurance laws will also affect how compensation is pursued. If applicable, you might seek benefits under your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.
A contingency fee is a payment structure many car accident attorneys use. The attorney will only get paid if you receive compensation for your claim. Contingency fees are a percentage of the recovered amount agreed upon by the client and attorney. This percentage commonly ranges from 25% to 40%. This allows all people regardless of their current financial status to have access to quality legal representation, since you will never be asked to pay for services upfront or out of pocket.
A rideshare accident has cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Your injuries prevent you from going back to work. The medical bills keep piling up. Your financial hardship makes it hard to get back on your feet. You're stressed and struggling to stay afloat. Now, you're trying to figure out what to do about your claim. The Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates can help.
Our Rideshare accident team has decades of personal injury law experience under our belt. We work hard to ensure victims of Uber or Lyft accidents get the maximum compensation due to them.
The circumstances of each accident is unique, so each case must be treated as such. Our rideshare lawyers can provide robust representation tailored to your specific circumstances. With us, your future is in the hands of a team that gets the best results for our clients. Our track record of recovering over $250 million in settlements and awards underscores our relentless pursuit of justice.
Don't delay legal action. If you wait too long, you can hinder the chance of receiving a fair settlement. Our Michigan personal injury law firm will only charge you a fee if we successfully resolve your rideshare accident claim. Call us at 248-886-8650 or send an email now. Together, we can chart the best course for settling your claim.
