A rideshare accident lawyer in Charleston can explain the type of compensation you may be entitled to. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way people travel, offering a convenient and cost-effective option for getting around Charleston. However, rideshare accidents can leave drivers, passengers, and other road users with unexpected expenses.
At Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward, known as The Thumbs Up Guys, we understand the impact a rideshare accident can have on your life. Founded in 2018, our law firm is committed to helping accident victims seek fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our Charleston car accident lawyer is here to provide legal assistance and help you explore the best path toward financial recovery.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents
Unlike traditional motor vehicle accidents, rideshare accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, legal considerations, and questions about liability. Passengers, drivers, and other road users may need to consult with a Charleston personal injury lawyer to seek compensation for medical bills, property damage, or lost income.
Insurance Challenges in Rideshare Accidents
One of the biggest concerns after a rideshare crash is determining which insurance policy applies. Coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- Off-duty drivers: If a rideshare driver is not using the rideshare app, only their car insurance policy applies.
- Transporting a passenger: The rideshare company’s commercial insurance policy provides higher coverage during this period.
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage: If another driver is at fault but does not have enough insurance, rideshare passengers or drivers may need to rely on personal insurance policies.
If you were involved in a rideshare crash, understanding the legal process can help you make informed decisions about your accident claim. Legal representation may be necessary to handle insurance negotiations and ensure fair compensation for accident victims. Consider teaming up with our team of Charleson rideshare accident lawyers.
For a free legal consultation with a rideshare accidents lawyer serving Charleston, call (843) 380-8350
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
Being involved in a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies. Knowing what to do after an Uber accident can help protect your rights and strengthen your accident claim. Taking the right steps can make a difference in your recovery and financial compensation.
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Care
Your health and safety should always come first. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately noticeable. Seeking medical care as soon as possible can prevent injuries from worsening and help determine the long-term effects of your injuries.
Contact Authorities and Report the Accident
Calling law enforcement ensures that an official police report is created. A car accident report serves as a primary source of evidence and includes details such as:
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- Names of the drivers, passengers, and witnesses
- Statements from those involved
- Possible traffic violations or signs of negligence
A police report can be helpful when filing an accident claim or dealing with insurance companies. If the accident involves a drunk driver, a distracted driver, or a hit-and-run, reporting the crash is even more important.
Notify the Rideshare Company and Insurance Providers
Rideshare accidents should be reported through the rideshare app. Uber and Lyft have accident reporting options for passengers and drivers. Additionally, notify your auto insurance provider, as coverage may vary depending on the situation. The applicable insurance policy could be the rideshare company’s liability coverage, a personal auto insurance policy, or even a third-party motorist’s insurance policy.
Understanding insurance policy regulations and determining the liable party in a rideshare crash can be difficult. If you were injured in a rideshare accident, a Charleston rideshare accident lawyer can explain your legal options and help you take the next steps toward financial recovery.
Charleston Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (843) 380-8350
Possible Compensation for Injured Passengers
When a rideshare crash causes injuries, passengers may face medical expenses, emotional trauma, and financial stress. Understanding the types of compensation that may be available| can help injured passengers move forward.
Types of Compensation Available
The amount and type of compensation depend on the accident details, the rideshare driver’s status, and the insurance policy regulations that apply. Injured passengers may be able to seek financial recovery for:
- Medical expenses: Hospital visits, doctor bills, medication, physical therapy, and long-term medical care
- Lost wages: Income lost due to time away from work during recovery
- Pain and suffering: Emotional distress, anxiety, or trauma caused by the accident
- Property damage: Personal belongings damaged in the crash, such as phones or luggage
Insurance Coverage for Injured Passengers
Rideshare companies have liability coverage, but the amount available depends on the driver’s activity at the time of the crash. The following insurance policies may come into play:
- Rideshare company’s commercial insurance policy: Covers injuries when the driver is transporting a passenger
- Personal auto insurance policy: Applies if the driver was not logged into the rideshare app at the time of the accident
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage: This may help if another driver caused the accident and does not have enough insurance
- Third–party liability insurance: May cover damages if another motorist was responsible for the crash
Challenges in Seeking Fair Compensation
Insurance companies often try to limit payouts, making it difficult for accident victims to receive the full amount they need. Some challenges include:
- Disputes over liability and the party responsible
- Denied insurance claims due to policy exclusions
- Delays in processing accident claims
- Difficulty obtaining documents from insurance companies
Injured passengers may need legal assistance to understand their legal options and ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries and financial losses.
Click to contact our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers today
Ask a Rideshare Accident Lawyer About Your Case
Dealing with insurance negotiations, medical recovery, and accident case law can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. Whether you were a rideshare passenger, a driver for damages, or another motorist affected by a rideshare crash, a lawyer can answer all your questions.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident, Lyft accident, or other rideshare crash, consider speaking with a rideshare accident attorney in Charleston. The legal process can be challenging, but seeking guidance may provide peace of mind as you focus on healing.
Call or text (843) 380-8350 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form