Virginia Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Injured While Riding an Uber or Lyft in VA?

These days, more and more people are turning to services like Uber, and Lyft for safe and affordable transportation. While these rideshare companies offer convenience to those who do not own cars and need transportation around cities and other areas, they are not immune to accidents and injuries. In fact, anyone involved in a rideshare accident can face serious injuries and various avoidable legal challenges.

If you have been in a rideshare accident, don't just trust any attorney with your case. At Rowe Weinstein & Sohn, we have handled thousands of car accident cases and are very knowledgeable with handling Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare-related crashes, injuries, and claims. Our team of rideshare accident attorneys are here to help you during this overwhelming time.

Call (571) 486-4798 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can assist you.

Recovering Compensation from an Uber or Lyft Accident

Recovering compensation after a rideshare accident depends on several factors, including the status of the driver at the time of the accident. Here’s how compensation works in different scenarios:

When the Driver Hasn't Logged into the App

If the rideshare driver has not logged into the app at the time of the accident, they are considered to be operating as a private citizen. In this case, their personal insurance policy would cover the accident. If you are injured, you would typically file a claim with the driver’s personal insurance provider. However, recovering compensation may be more challenging, as personal policies often have lower liability limits compared to commercial rideshare insurance.

When the Driver Has Logged into the App and is Accepting Rides

If the driver is logged into the app and is accepting rides but has not yet picked up a passenger, rideshare company insurance comes into play. During this period, Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage for drivers, which is generally higher than personal insurance. If you are involved in an accident under these circumstances, you can pursue compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance, but you will need to demonstrate the driver’s fault in the accident.

When the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or is Driving a Passenger

If the driver has accepted a ride or is currently transporting a passenger, both Uber and Lyft provide comprehensive liability coverage. This insurance typically covers:

• Bodily Injury: Medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering for injured parties.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for any damaged property.

In this scenario, the rideshare company’s insurance is often substantial, making it easier for victims to recover compensation. However, it’s crucial to work with a qualified Virginia rideshare accident lawyer to ensure you navigate the complexities of the claim process effectively.

Navigating Insurance Claims with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Virginia

The intricacies of insurance claims in rideshare accidents are often misunderstood without the guidance of skilled attorneys. Virginia mandates specific coverage levels for rideshare drivers when logged into the app and en route to pick up passengers or ferrying them. These coverage amounts are generally higher than regular personal car insurance limits.

By working with Rowe Weinstein & Sohn, you can ensure that claims are penetrated through correctly, tapping into the right sources of compensation. Our attorneys dissect the insurance policies involved, thus optimizing the financial recovery possibilities for medical bills, lost wages, and other pertinent compensatory elements.

Who is Liable for a Rideshare Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex. Several parties may be held accountable, including:

• The Rideshare Driver: If the driver is found to be negligent (e.g., distracted driving, driving under the influence), they can be held liable for any injuries and damages caused in the accident.
• The Rideshare Company: Depending on the circumstances, Uber or Lyft may also be liable for the accident, especially if the driver was logged into the app and accepting rides. These companies have extensive insurance policies designed to cover accidents involving their drivers.
• Other Drivers: If another driver is at fault for the accident, they may be liable for the damages and injuries sustained.

To establish liability, your attorney will need to gather evidence, which may include:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Photographic evidence of the accident scene
• Driver records (including whether they were logged into the app)
• Any available video footage from the rideshare app or surrounding areas

Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident in Virginia

Being involved in a rideshare accident in Virginia can be a complex legal issue, partly due to the unique blend of personal and commercial liabilities. Virginia law requires all drivers, including those working for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, to carry certain minimum levels of insurance. However, these amounts differ when the driver is engaged in commercial activities, such as operating an Uber or Lyft. Understanding these distinctions is crucial to recovering adequate compensation.

Rideshare companies in Virginia are required to provide insurance coverage in addition to what the driver already carries. This coverage can vary based on the driver's status, such as whether they are waiting for a ride request or actively transporting a passenger. These policies can significantly impact how claims are processed and settled, making legal guidance valuable for navigating these specific insurance layers.

Why You Should Hire Our Firm

Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts, and understanding the nuances of Virginia law can be daunting.

Our experienced Virginia rideshare accident attorney at Rowe Weinstein & Sohn can help you:

1. Evaluate Your Case: We’ll assess the specifics of your accident and determine the best course of action.
2. Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Our team will handle all communications with insurance providers to ensure your rights are protected.
3. Gather Evidence: We’ll collect the necessary evidence to support your claim, including expert testimonies, accident reports, and medical records.
4. Fight for Maximum Compensation: Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact us today at (571) 486-4798 to request a free case review.