The convenience of rideshare services often overshadows the lack of knowledge we have about the driver’s safety measures and training. That is, until an accident happens. Our Chicago, IL rideshare accident lawyer knows it can be difficult to pursue next steps on your own when you may still be in shock from what happened.
Teaming up with our legal team at Disparti Law Group will lighten the burden you may feel having to deal with insurance companies, medical costs, and lost wages. With over $1 billion in recovered damages for our clients, you can rest assured we will take care of you.
How A Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Help
Because we have extensive experience representing individuals who have been negatively affected by a rideshare accident, we know what legal factors to pursue. Rideshare drivers are considered common carriers which means they have a duty to protect their passengers and are responsible for injury, if it occurs.
A driver’s personal insurance will not cover an accident because of this classification. Instead, the rideshare company’s insurance will be held liable, which can present difficulties when it comes to seeking appropriate compensation. Strategizing with our Chicago rideshare accident lawyer will ensure your case is comprehensive and you have the backup you need to maximize your compensation request.
Typical Causes Of Rideshare Accidents
As with everyday driving, distractions can play a huge role in preventable accidents. Add in the factor that many rideshare drivers use the outlet to earn a living, and it can increase the chances of fatigue-related accidents happening. The below are common causes of accidents that our team represents:
- Speeding. If a rideshare driver is packing rides into their schedule, it’s likely they may be in a rush to get you to your destination. High speeds can lead to rear-ending another vehicle or taking a corner too fast and flipping a vehicle.
- Drowsy Driving. Like most of us, rideshare drivers are using their work to support their lifestyle. If a driver has too many rides for multiple days in a row, or is working a large amount of hours nonstop, it can potentially result in fatigue. When drivers are tired, they can have slowed reaction times, which can affect decision-making and judgment.
- Road Conditions. Factors like decreased visibility due to darkness or fog can contribute to rideshare accidents. If there is ice or snow on top of that, it can be easy to lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.
- Distracted Driving. Many of us are guilty of either eating, changing a song, or rummaging through our bags while driving, all of which can be considered forms of distraction. When a driver is less focused on the road, they are more susceptible to missing critical markers like a stop sign or pedestrian.
Reaching out to our Chicago rideshare accident lawyer will heighten your chances of building a strong case. Our attorneys at Disparti Law Group offer a free consultation and guarantee that you will not pay a penny until we win your case. Contact us today if you would like to discuss your situation.
Understanding The Statute Of Limitations In Rideshare Accidents
It’s important to understand the statute of limitations and speak with a Chicago, IL rideshare accident lawyer should you experience a rideshare accident. This legal time frame dictates how long a person has to file a claim for compensation following an accident. Missing this window can result in losing the ability to seek damages altogether, making it critical to address these matters promptly. Each state has its own statute of limitations, which can vary depending on the type of claim being filed. In Illinois, the timeline for filing a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident is generally two years from the date of the incident. Connecting with a rideshare injury attorney early can help protect your rights and secure the opportunity to pursue compensation. Consider our team, who was named One of the Most Influential Law Firms in America by Trial Lawyer Magazine.
Rideshare Accidents And Legal Timelines
Rideshare accidents can involve multiple layers of legal responsibility. Determining whether the driver was at fault, if the rideshare company holds liability, or if another party contributed to the accident is a central part of these cases. However, regardless of fault, the statute of limitations remains a critical consideration. It is important to account for the specific circumstances of the accident. For example, if a government entity is involved, the timeline to file a claim may differ significantly.
When is comes to the timeframes in rideshare accidents, our rideshare compensation lawyer often sees confusion around how the statute of limitations applies to rideshare cases. This is especially true because these claims may involve insurance companies, private parties, or large corporations. Staying aware of the deadlines for filing is crucial, as even a strong case can become invalid if submitted too late. Consulting with legal counsel can help clarify these timelines and how they apply to your case.
How The Statute Of Limitations Affects Rideshare Accident Cases
Filing a claim within the statute of limitations is not just about meeting a legal requirement—it directly impacts the strength and validity of your case. Waiting too long can result in evidence becoming unavailable or witnesses forgetting critical details. For example, rideshare accidents often rely on app data, such as driver logs and GPS tracking. Obtaining these records can take time, and initiating the claims process sooner increases the likelihood of securing the necessary information.
Additionally, the statute of limitations may be influenced by other factors, such as whether the injured party was a minor or if the accident resulted in wrongful death. These situations may extend or alter the timeline, depending on the specific facts. Working with a legal team experienced in rideshare accident claims can help you understand how these details affect your case.
Acting Quickly And Taking The Next Steps
A rideshare liability lawyer can share that time plays a significant role in building a strong rideshare accident case. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, every step benefits from prompt action. Missing the filing deadline eliminates the ability to recover compensation, regardless of the severity of injuries or losses.
The Importance Of Timely Action In Rideshare Accident Claims
It will be crucial to reach out to a Chicago rideshare accident lawyer to protect your legal rights and pursue compensation if you have been injured in a rideshare accident. Attorneys at firms like the Disparti Law Group, offer complimentary consultations, and are dedicated to guiding you through the process. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you take the next steps.
Determining Responsibility In Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents present legal questions that differ from standard car crashes. Liability depends on multiple factors, including who was at fault and the status of the rideshare trip at the time of the collision. Whether a passenger, driver, or another party is involved, determining responsibility requires a clear understanding of rideshare policies and insurance coverage. Those injured may have legal options for seeking compensation. Speaking with a Chicago, IL rideshare accident lawyer can help clarify the next steps in these cases.
The Rideshare Driver’s Fault And Liability
If a rideshare driver is responsible for an accident, liability may depend on whether they were actively transporting a passenger, waiting for a ride request, or off duty. Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage, but the extent of that coverage varies. If the driver was off duty, their personal auto insurance applies. When they were actively transporting a passenger or on their way to pick one up, the company’s insurance may provide additional coverage.
Rideshare Company Policies And Coverage
Rideshare companies carry insurance policies that apply in specific situations. When a driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, limited coverage may apply if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident. Our Chicago rideshare accident lawyer will share that once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, higher coverage levels may be available. These policies can cover medical expenses, property damage, and other losses, but determining whether a claim qualifies under these terms can be challenging.
Other Drivers And Their Role In The Accident
If another driver caused the accident, their insurance is the first source of compensation. Rideshare passengers injured in a crash caused by another driver may file a claim against that driver’s insurance with help from a rideshare injury claims lawyer. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the rideshare company’s policy may provide additional coverage, depending on the circumstances.
Pedestrians And Cyclists Involved In Rideshare Accidents
Pedestrians or cyclists may also be involved in accidents when rideshare vehicles. If the rideshare driver was at fault, their insurance or the company’s coverage may apply, depending on their status in the app. If another motorist caused the collision, that driver’s insurance is typically responsible for covering the damages.
Passengers In Rideshare Vehicles
Our rideshare crash lawyer shares that passengers injured in rideshare accidents are rarely at fault. Their claims depend on whether the rideshare driver, another motorist, or both contributed to the crash. Injured passengers may file claims against multiple insurance policies, depending on the available coverage.
Vehicle Manufacturers And Mechanical Failures
Some accidents happen due to mechanical defects or failures. If a vehicle malfunction contributed to a crash, the manufacturer or a maintenance provider could be held responsible. Investigating these cases requires reviewing the vehicle’s history, maintenance records, and any potential recalls.
Pursuing Compensation After A Rideshare Accident
For those injured in rideshare-related crashes, representation from a Chicago rideshare accident lawyer can help victims to understand their legal options. Insurance policies and liability laws vary, making it important to review the details of each accident carefully, which is an area where help from a rideshare injury attorney can be beneficial. Those dealing with medical expenses and other losses after a rideshare accident can benefit from legal guidance available at Chicago’s largest accident injury firm. Contact Disparti Law Group to discuss your case and explore available legal options, we have received over $1 billion in recoveries for our clients.
