Call Us Today Rideshare accident claims can be complex. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare crash, a Fort Myers car accident lawyer can help you pursue damages.
Ridesharing services have changed the way we move around the world. That said, rideshare crashes can happen, and when they do, you may deserve to be compensated.
The legal team at Viles & Beckman has over 40 years of combined experience. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare crash, a Fort Myers rideshare accident lawyer from our team can help you file a claim and pursue compensation.
How Do I Sue Uber or Lyft for an Accident?
Suing Lyft or Uber for an accident can be challenging due to the companies’ classification of their drivers as independent contractors. However, both rideshare companies provide insurance coverage that applies in specific circumstances.
A lawsuit requires a thorough investigation. A Fort Myers personal injury lawyer can guide you through this process, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit on your behalf.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
Why Should I Hire an Attorney After a Rideshare Accident in Florida?
Rideshare crashes often involve multiple parties, which can make rideshare cases complex. An attorney can:
- Investigate the incident to determine fault
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Calculate the full extent of your damages
- Represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached
A rideshare accident lawyer in Fort Myers can increase your odds of receiving fair compensation and minimize the stress of filing a complex claim.
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How Much Does an Attorney Charge for a Car Accident in Florida?
Most personal injury attorneys, including those at Viles & Beckman, work on a contingency fee basis. This means that instead of charging an upfront fee, your attorney takes a predetermined percentage of your settlement or court award.
You can discuss this percentage with your lawyer during your consultation.
Click To ContactWhat Types of Damages Can I Recover?
Victims of rideshare crashes may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any other healthcare services you require due to the collision.
- Lost wages: You can be compensated for income you miss out on while recovering from the crash, including future earnings if you are unable to return to work.
- Property damage: You can be reimbursed for the repair or replacement of personal property damaged in the collision, including your vehicle.
- Pain and suffering: You can receive damages for the bodily pain and discomfort caused by the crash.
- Emotional distress: You can receive damages for the psychological impact of the crash, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of enjoyment of life: You can receive compensation for the inability to participate in hobbies, activities, or other aspects of life that you enjoyed before the crash.
- Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, additional damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.
A rideshare accident attorney in Fort Myers can calculate your damages and ensure you’re adequately compensated.
What Is the Average Rideshare Accident Settlement?
Since every case is unique, there is no average rideshare accident settlement. While minor injuries may result in a settlement of a few thousand dollars, severe injuries can lead to a six- or seven-figure payout.
The value of a rideshare accident settlement depends on factors such as the severity of the victim’s injuries, the degree of the at-fault driver’s negligence, and available insurance coverage. Your attorney will present a strong case to maximize your settlement.
How Does Lyft and Uber Accident Insurance Work?
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for drivers and passengers, but the specifics depend on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
- Logged out: The driver’s personal insurance applies.
- Logged in (no ride accepted): Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage of up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
- En route or during a ride: Lyft or Uber’s $1 million liability policy applies.
Understanding how this insurance works is critical to determining who pays for your damages. An attorney can help you file a claim.
What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Rideshare Claim in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the incident.
If you miss this deadline, you could forfeit your right to seek compensation. An attorney can make sure you file on time.
Who Is Liable in a Florida Rideshare Accident?
Liability for a rideshare crash can fall on multiple parties, including:
- The rideshare driver: If the rideshare driver acted negligently, such as by speeding, texting, or driving under the influence, they can be held liable for the collision.
- Other motorists: If another driver caused the collision through reckless or negligent behavior, they may bear responsibility.
- The rideshare company: Under certain circumstances, the rideshare company may be held liable, particularly if its policies or practices contributed to the crash.
- Vehicle manufacturers: If a mechanical defect in the vehicle caused or contributed to the collision, the manufacturer may be held liable.
- Government entities: Poorly maintained roads or defective traffic signals could make a local government agency partially responsible for the collision.
Determining liability requires a thorough investigation, which an experienced attorney can handle.
What if My Family Member Died?
If your loved one has died in a rideshare accident, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
An attorney can assess your situation and determine whether you have a viable wrongful death case.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can happen for many reasons, including:
- Distracted driving (such as by texting or using the rideshare app)
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Driving under the influence
- Fatigue (due to long driving hours)
Identifying the cause of the crash is crucial to building a strong case and holding the at-fault parties accountable.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Call the police: Notify law enforcement and file a report.
- Contact the rideshare company: Report the accident through the app.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Obtain contact details, insurance information, and rideshare app details from the rideshare driver and any other parties involved.
- Seek medical attention: Visit a doctor, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident, but avoid discussing fault.
- Consult an attorney: Contact a rideshare accident lawyer to discuss your options and next steps.
Contact a Fort Myers Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Fort Myers, your medical bills may be mounting, your family may be suffering, and you may be unable to work. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone.
Since 1995, the team at Viles & Beckman has been advocating for car accident victims like you. A dedicated Fort Myers rideshare accident attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the claims process, and pursue compensation.
Schedule a free consultation today to take the first step toward justice.
