Rideshare Accidents Attorney in Covington, Kentucky

Rideshare services have revolutionized how people commute, offering convenient, affordable alternatives to traditional taxi services. However, just like any other form of transportation, rideshare services come with their own risks. Rideshare accidents can happen for various reasons, and if you’ve been involved in one, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

At The Berger Firm, we handle personal injury cases for clients in Covington, Kentucky, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the nuances of a rideshare accident case and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

What Causes Rideshare Accidents?

Rideshare accidents are similar to typical car accidents in that they can happen for a variety of reasons. However, various unique factors can contribute to these accidents. Some of the most common causes of rideshare accidents include:

• Distracted driving: Just like any other driver, rideshare drivers are often distracted by their smartphones or GPS devices. This distraction can lead to a failure to notice a stop sign, traffic lights, or pedestrians, causing an accident.
  

• Driver fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours to maximize their earnings. This can lead to exhaustion, impaired focus, and delayed reaction times, all of which can contribute to accidents.
  

• Poor vehicle maintenance: Rideshare drivers are responsible for the upkeep of their own vehicles, and sometimes that responsibility is neglected. If a vehicle’s brakes, tires, or lights are not properly maintained, it can lead to accidents.
  

• Reckless driving: Rideshare drivers are often under pressure to pick up and drop off passengers quickly. This pressure may cause some drivers to speed, make unsafe lane changes, or engage in other reckless behaviors.
  

• Impaired driving: Although rare, there are instances where a rideshare driver may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to impaired driving and accidents.

How Do Rideshare Accidents Differ from Regular Car Accidents?

When you’re involved in a car accident, seeking compensation is relatively straightforward. The responsible driver’s insurance policy usually covers the damages, and the victim works with the insurance company to receive compensation.

However, when it comes to rideshare accidents, things can get a bit more complicated due to the involvement of multiple parties. Some of the factors that make rideshare accidents different from regular car accidents include:

• Multiple insurance policies: When a rideshare driver is involved in an accident, multiple insurance policies may come into play. The driver’s personal insurance policy, the rideshare company’s insurance policy, and in some cases, the passenger’s own insurance policy can all be factors in a claim. It’s important to understand which policies apply to your specific situation.
  

• Rideshare company liability: Rideshare companies carry insurance coverage for their drivers in certain circumstances. This can be helpful if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t cover the accident. However, rideshare companies are often reluctant to take responsibility, and their involvement can make the claims process more challenging.
  

• Shared fault: In some cases, both the rideshare driver and another driver (or multiple drivers) may share responsibility for the accident. This can complicate matters further, as each party may be pointing the finger at the other.

Determining Liability in a Rideshare Accident

The key to a successful rideshare accident claim is determining liability. Who is at fault? Who is responsible for your injuries? In a rideshare accident, multiple parties may share liability. These parties often include:

• The rideshare driver: If the accident was caused by the rideshare driver’s actions (such as reckless driving, speeding, or distracted driving), they may be held liable for the crash. If the driver is found to be negligent, you may be able to pursue a claim against their insurance policy.
  

• The other driver: If another driver was involved in the accident and was at fault, they may be held liable for the damages. You can file a claim against the other driver’s insurance if their negligence caused the accident.
  

• The rideshare company: In some cases, the rideshare company itself may be held responsible for an accident. This can occur if the company fails to properly vet its drivers, fails to provide adequate safety measures, or fails to carry proper insurance coverage.
  

• A third party: If a third party caused the accident (for example, a pedestrian or another vehicle), they may be held liable for the damages.

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect yourself and preserve evidence for your case. Here’s what you should do immediately after being involved in a rideshare accident:

1. Call the police: Always report the accident to the police. An official police report will provide crucial documentation for your case.
   

2. Get medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be apparent right away. A medical record will also serve as evidence of your injuries.
   

3. Collect evidence: Take photos of the scene of the accident, including any damage to the vehicles involved. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information.
   

4. Obtain the driver information for both vehicles: Be sure to get the rideshare driver’s name, license plate number, and insurance details. You should also ask for the rideshare company’s contact information.
   

5. Contact a personal injury attorney: It’s always a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney after any accident, especially a rideshare accident. An attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.

How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

A skilled personal injury attorney can help you in several ways after a rideshare accident. Here are a few ways an attorney can assist:

• Investigating the accident: Your attorney can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine who’s at fault.
  

• Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies, especially those representing rideshare companies, can be difficult to work with. A lawyer can handle negotiations on your behalf and help make sure you’re not taken advantage of.
  

• Filing a lawsuit if necessary: If negotiations with the insurance companies don’t result in a fair settlement, your attorney can help you file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
  

• Maximizing compensation: An attorney will work to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Potential Compensation for Rideshare Accident Victims

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to compensation for various damages. Some of the most common types of compensation include:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing medical care.
  

• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income during your recovery.
  

• Pain and suffering: If your injuries have caused significant pain and suffering, you may be entitled to compensation for your emotional distress.
  

• Property damage: If your personal property was damaged in the accident (such as your phone, personal belongings, or vehicle), you may be entitled to reimbursement.
  

• Punitive damages: In some cases, the court may award punitive damages if the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious.