Have you or a loved one been injured in a car accident involving a Lyft or Uber driver in Scranton? We want to help you get fair compensation. Contact The Slocum Firm today to schedule a free consultation.
Are you a Scranton resident or visitor who’s been injured in a rideshare accident? If so, you’re not alone. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular way to get around Scranton, but accidents can happen. When you’re involved in a rideshare accident, navigating the legal complexities can be overwhelming. That’s where The Slocum Firm comes in.
Our experienced Scranton rideshare accident lawyers have a proven track record of helping victims of rideshare accidents obtain fair compensation. We understand the unique challenges in these cases, such as determining liability between the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other parties involved.
Whether you’re a rideshare passenger, a driver involved in an accident, or a pedestrian injured by a rideshare vehicle, we’re here to help. Our team will work tirelessly to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights.
Don’t let an insurance company try to undervalue your claim. Contact The Slocum Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll assess your case, explain your legal options, and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, have become an integral part of our daily lives in Scranton, PA. While these services offer convenience, they also come with their own set of risks.
Understanding the common causes of rideshare accidents can help you know what to watch out for and how to seek fair compensation if you’re involved in an accident.
Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of rideshare accidents is distracted driving. Rideshare drivers often use their phones to manage ride requests, navigate routes, and communicate with passengers. This constant interaction with their phones can divert their attention from the road, leading to dangerous situations.
Distracted driving can cause collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects, resulting in severe injuries and significant property damage. If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a distracted rideshare driver, our experienced Scranton personal injury attorneys can help you gather evidence and build a strong case.
Drowsy Driving
Rideshare drivers often work long hours to earn more money, leading to drowsy driving. Fatigue impairs a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, making them more prone to accidents. Drowsy driving can lead to falling asleep at the wheel, drifting into other lanes, or missing essential traffic signals, causing severe accidents. We can investigate your case to determine whether driver fatigue contributed to your injuries and damages and seek fair compensation for them.
Speeding
To complete more rides and increase their earnings, some rideshare drivers may speed a lot. Speeding reduces the time available to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, leading to higher chances of collisions.
Speeding can exacerbate the severity of accidents, leading to more severe injuries and higher medical expenses. Our team will work to prove that speeding contributed to your accident and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, and abrupt lane changes, can cause dangerous rideshare accidents. These behaviors are often driven by a desire to complete rides quickly or frustration with traffic conditions.
Aggressive driving increases the risk of collisions with other vehicles and can lead to severe injuries and property damage. We’ll help you hold aggressive drivers accountable and work towards a fair settlement for your injuries and damages.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Rideshare drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, which can result in accidents.
Mechanical failures can cause sudden loss of control, leading to crashes and severe injuries. If poor maintenance is a factor in your accident, we can investigate and pursue claims against the rideshare driver or their insurance company.
Traffic Law Violations
Like all drivers, rideshare drivers are required to obey traffic laws. However, violations such as running red lights, making illegal turns, or ignoring stop signs can lead to accidents.
Traffic law violations increase the likelihood of accidents and can result in significant injuries and property damage. We’ll work to prove that a traffic law violation caused your accident and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Errors in Navigation
Rideshare apps can sometimes lead drivers into unfamiliar or hazardous areas. Navigation errors can result in unsafe driving conditions and increased accident risk.
Poor navigation can cause confusion, sudden lane changes, and accidents with other vehicles. We’ll examine how navigation errors may have contributed to your accident and seek appropriate compensation for your medical bills and lost wages.
Types of Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
In a rideshare accident, the types of injuries can vary widely, depending on the collision’s severity and other factors. Here are six common injuries that you might encounter in a rideshare accident:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury in auto accidents, including those involving rideshare vehicles. It occurs when the head is suddenly jolted forward and backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries can occur when there is a significant impact on the head during a rideshare accident. These injuries can range from concussions to more severe conditions like contusions or even brain hemorrhages. Symptoms of TBIs might include confusion, memory problems, and mood changes.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Injuries to the spinal cord are among the most severe types of injuries that can occur in a rideshare accident. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis and can significantly impact your quality of life.
The medical expenses associated with spinal cord injuries can be substantial, and it’s essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side to help you seek fair compensation from the rideshare company’s insurance policy.
Broken Bones
Fractures and broken bones are common in high-impact accidents. The force of a collision can break bones in the arms, legs, ribs, or other areas of the body. Treatment for broken bones often requires surgery and lengthy rehabilitation, leading to considerable medical expenses and lost wages.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries can be less evident than external injuries but are equally severe. These can include damage to organs, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels. Symptoms might not appear immediately, so getting a complete medical evaluation after any rideshare accident is crucial.
Emotional Distress
The psychological impact of a rideshare accident can be profound, often leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Emotional distress can affect your overall well-being and ability to work.
Liability in Rideshare Accidents
Determining liability can be complex when you’re involved in a rideshare accident. Unlike traditional car accidents, where the at-fault driver is often clear, rideshare accidents involve multiple parties and insurance policies, making the process more intricate.
Here’s a breakdown of who might be responsible and how liability is determined in rideshare accidents:
- Rideshare Driver: If the Uber or Lyft driver involved in the accident was at fault, they can be held responsible. However, even if the driver is responsible, their liability may be covered by their auto insurance policy or the rideshare company’s insurance policy, depending on the circumstances. If the driver was distracted or drowsy, this could further impact the determination of liability.
- Rideshare Company: Uber and Lyft, like other rideshare companies, typically provide insurance coverage for their drivers while on the app. This coverage varies depending on whether the driver is en route to pick up a passenger, actively transporting a passenger, or offline. Understanding the specific insurance coverage in your case is crucial, and our experienced personal injury attorneys can help clarify this for you.
- Other Drivers: Other drivers may also be involved in many rideshare accidents. If another driver caused the accident due to negligence, such as distracted driving or failing to obey traffic laws, they can be held liable. Determining the fault of other drivers and how it impacts your claim can be complex, but we are here to guide you through this process.
Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents often involve navigating multiple insurance policies, which can be confusing. Here’s how insurance typically works in these cases:
- Rideshare Company’s Insurance Policy: Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers while they are on the app. This insurance can cover medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages if the driver is at fault. The coverage depends on the ride stage (e.g., waiting for a ride request versus transporting a passenger).
- Personal Auto Insurance: In cases where the rideshare driver’s insurance is insufficient or the rideshare company’s policy does not cover the driver, the driver’s auto insurance might come into play. However, many personal auto insurance policies exclude coverage for commercial activities, including ridesharing.
- Other Drivers’ Insurance: If another driver is at fault, their insurance should cover your damages. However, insurance claims can be challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved. We can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Scranton, PA, knowing what to do next is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Here are seven essential steps to follow after a rideshare accident:
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top priorities. First, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, getting a medical evaluation is crucial, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. This is also critical for your personal injury claim, as medical records will prove your injuries.
Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Early medical documentation helps in both treatment and legal claims.
Document the Accident Scene
Gather as much information as possible from the accident scene. Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, including the rideshare and other cars. Photograph any visible injuries and the overall scene of the accident. This documentation will be invaluable for your insurance claims and potential legal action.
Use your smartphone or camera to take detailed scene photos. Photos provide evidence that can support your claim and help determine liability.
Exchange Information with All Parties
Get contact and insurance information from everyone involved in the accident, including the rideshare driver, other drivers, and witnesses. For the rideshare driver, record their name, phone number, and the rideshare company they were working for at the time (Uber, Lyft, etc.). Make sure to note their vehicle details and insurance information.
Collect names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers. This information is crucial for filing insurance claims and seeking fair compensation.
Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company
Notify the rideshare company about the accident as soon as possible. Most rideshare companies have a specific procedure for reporting accidents through their app or website. This will ensure the rideshare company’s insurance policy is activated and your claim is processed correctly.
Use the rideshare app or website to report the accident. Reporting promptly helps activate the insurance coverage and start the claims process.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your own auto insurance company. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the rideshare driver’s information and the circumstances of the accident. Your insurance company will guide you through the following steps and help manage any insurance issues.
File a claim with your insurance company. Ensures your insurance coverage is utilized and helps address any issues.
Seek Legal Advice from an Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Navigating the complexities of rideshare accidents can be challenging. Contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer at The Slocum Firm to discuss your case. We offer a free consultation and can help you understand your legal options, including seeking fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Schedule a free consultation with The Slocum Firm. Legal advice is crucial to ensure that you receive fair representation and compensation.
Follow Up on Medical Treatment and Documentation
Follow your medical treatment plan and keep detailed records of all your medical visits, expenses, and treatments. This ongoing documentation is essential for your recovery and personal injury claim. Keeping track of your medical progress helps in accurately calculating your economic damages.
Maintain comprehensive records of all medical treatments and expenses. Detailed documentation supports your personal injury case and ensures you receive fair compensation for all related costs.
Benefits of Hiring a Scranton Rideshare Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Scranton, hiring an experienced rideshare accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here are six key benefits of hiring a Scranton rideshare accident lawyer:
Skilled Knowledge of Rideshare Accident Laws
Rideshare accidents involving Uber, Lyft, or other services come with legal challenges. Rideshare drivers are often considered independent contractors, which can complicate liability issues.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys at The Slocum Firm have a deep understanding of the specific laws and regulations governing rideshare companies and drivers in Scranton, PA. This expertise is crucial in navigating the complexities of these cases and ensuring that all legal avenues are explored.
- Understanding Liability: We can help determine whether the rideshare driver, company or another party is at fault.
- Navigating Insurance Policies: We handle the intricacies of multiple insurance policies, including the rideshare company’s insurance policy and your auto insurance.
Thorough Investigation and Evidence Collection
Proving fault in a rideshare accident requires a comprehensive investigation. This includes gathering evidence from the accident scene, obtaining witness statements, and reviewing the rideshare app data.
Our team at The Slocum Firm is skilled in collecting and analyzing this evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Accident Scene Investigation: We work with experts to reconstruct the accident and establish fault.
- Documenting Severe Injuries: We ensure that all medical records and evidence of injuries are meticulously documented to support your claim.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved. Rideshare companies and their drivers have specific insurance coverage, and insurance companies often try to minimize their payout.
Our Scranton rideshare accident lawyers are adept at negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Handling Insurance Claims: We handle all communications with insurance companies, so you don’t have to.
- Maximizing Compensation: We aim to secure a fair settlement covering all your economic and non-economic damages.
Protection Against Unfair Settlement Offers
Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are skilled at assessing the true value of your claim, including long-term impacts like future medical expenses and lost income.
We fight to ensure that any settlement offer is fair and adequately compensates you for your injuries.
- Evaluating Settlement Offers: We assess whether an offer meets your needs and negotiate for a better deal if necessary.
- Fighting for Full Compensation: We ensure you are compensated for all your damages, including pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
Guidance Through Legal Processes
Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially if you’re dealing with severe injuries and emotional distress. At The Slocum Firm, we provide step-by-step guidance through the entire legal process, from filing your claim to representing you in court if necessary. We aim to handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.
- Handling Legal Documentation: We handle all necessary paperwork and legal filings.
- Representing Your Interests: We advocate for your best interests in negotiations and court proceedings.
Access to Resources and Expertise
Our law firm has access to a network of experts, including accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and financial advisors. These resources are invaluable in building a solid case and ensuring that all aspects of your claim are thoroughly addressed.
- Expert Witnesses: We collaborate with experts who can provide testimony and evidence to support your case.
- Comprehensive Case Management: We manage all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to coordinating with medical professionals.
Types of Compensation Available to Victims of Rideshare Accidents in Scranton
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Scranton, you might wonder what compensation you can pursue. At The Slocum Firm, we understand how important it is to secure fair compensation for your damages. Here are five key types of compensation that you may be entitled to as a victim of a rideshare accident:
Medical Expenses
One of the most immediate concerns after a rideshare accident is covering medical expenses. Your medical bills can quickly add up whether you’ve sustained minor or severe injuries. This includes:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgery costs
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
As your experienced rideshare accident lawyer, we will work to ensure that your compensation covers all your medical expenses, both current and future. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, it’s crucial to address these expenses as part of your insurance claim.
Lost Wages
If your injuries have prevented you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This type of compensation covers:
- Paychecks you missed while recovering
- Lost earning potential if your injury impacts your ability to work in the future
We understand the financial strain that comes with being unable to work due to an accident. Our Scranton personal injury attorneys will fight to ensure you receive compensation for lost wages to help you get back on your feet.
Property Damage
Property damage often involves repairing or replacing your vehicle in a rideshare accident. This can include:
- Cost of repairs
- Replacement if the car is totaled
- Any other property damaged in the accident
We’ll work with your insurance company and the rideshare company’s insurance policy to ensure you receive fair property damage compensation. If you’re dealing with a Lyft or Uber accident, we’ll handle the complexities of your claim to ensure all damages are accounted for.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond the tangible costs, rideshare accident victims may experience significant emotional distress and pain. Compensation for pain and suffering includes:
- Physical pain from injuries
- Emotional distress from the accident
- Impact on your quality of life
Our dedicated rideshare accident lawyers understand that these damages can be deeply personal and challenging to quantify. We’ll use our proven track record to fight for fair compensation that reflects the true impact of your suffering.
Legal Costs and Fees
Handling a rideshare accident claim can involve various legal expenses, such as:
- Attorney fees
- Costs associated with gathering evidence
- Court costs if your case goes to trial
The Slocum Firm offers a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand the potential costs involved. We’ll work to ensure that any legal costs are factored into your compensation so you’re not left bearing the financial burden of seeking justice.
Unique Challenges in Rideshare Accident Cases
Navigating the aftermath can be particularly challenging when you’re involved in a rideshare accident. At The Slocum Firm, we understand these complexities and are here to help you through each step. Here are six unique challenges you might face in a rideshare accident case:
Determining Liability
One of the primary difficulties in a rideshare accident is determining who is at fault. Unlike traditional car accidents, where liability may rest with one driver, rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties. You might be dealing with:
- The Rideshare Driver: The Uber or Lyft driver could be at fault due to distracted driving or negligence.
- The Rideshare Company: The insurance policy might be involved, but their coverage can be complex.
- Other Drivers: The other drivers on the road might also share some responsibility.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys at The Slocum Firm will thoroughly investigate the accident to identify all parties responsible and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Complex Insurance Coverage
Rideshare accidents involve multiple layers of insurance coverage, which can be confusing. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Rideshare Company’s Insurance Policy: Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that may cover certain aspects of the accident. Still, this coverage can vary based on whether the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or already transporting one.
- Driver’s Personal Auto Insurance: The rideshare driver’s own insurance policy may also be involved, especially if the rideshare company’s insurance does not fully cover the damages.
Navigating these insurance issues requires a clear understanding of the policies involved. Our Scranton rideshare accident lawyers are well-versed in these complexities and can help you handle insurance claims effectively.
Proving the Rideshare Driver’s Status
Another challenge is proving whether the rideshare driver was actively working at the time of the accident. The driver’s status can significantly impact which insurance policy applies. For instance:
- Active Rideshare Driver: If the driver was actively driving a passenger or en route to pick up a rider, the rideshare company’s insurance might be involved.
- Not on Duty: If the driver was not logged into the rideshare app, their auto insurance would likely be the primary coverage.
Our legal team will work to gather the necessary evidence from the rideshare app and other sources to establish the driver’s status and secure the compensation you deserve.
Navigating the Independent Contractor Status
Rideshare drivers are typically classified as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification can complicate your case, affecting liability and insurance coverage. Unlike employees, independent contractors have different rights and responsibilities, which can influence the outcome of your claim.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys are skilled in dealing with these nuances and will advocate for your best interests to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.
Handling Multiple Parties
In many rideshare accidents, you may need to deal with several parties, including:
- The Rideshare Driver
- The Rideshare Company
- Other Drivers Involved
- Insurance Companies
Coordinating with multiple parties and managing different insurance claims can be overwhelming. At The Slocum Firm, we take on the burden of communicating with all relevant parties and negotiating on your behalf to achieve a fair settlement.
Addressing Severe Injuries and Economic Damages
Rideshare accidents can result in severe injuries, such as spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries, leading to significant medical expenses and lost wages. Calculating the full extent of your damages, including future medical costs and lost income, can be complex.
We are here to help you navigate this process. Our team will work to ensure that all your economic damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress, are thoroughly accounted for in your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accident Cases
Can I file a personal injury lawsuit against a rideshare driver?
You can file a personal injury lawsuit if the rideshare driver’s negligence caused the accident. Pursuing legal action can help you seek fair compensation for your losses if you’ve suffered severe injuries or significant damages. Our team is experienced in handling rideshare accident claims and will work tirelessly to protect your interests.
What if I was a passenger in the rideshare vehicle?
If you were a ride-sharing vehicle passenger, you might still be eligible for compensation. The rideshare company’s insurance should cover injuries to passengers. However, if another driver was at fault, their insurance may also be involved. We’ll help you navigate these claims and ensure you receive a fair injury settlement.
What if the rideshare driver was at fault but didn’t have insurance?
If the rideshare driver doesn’t have adequate insurance, you may need to file a claim using the rideshare company’s insurance policy. Uber and Lyft provide driver coverage, but coverage limits and conditions apply. Our team at The Slocum Firm can help you navigate these insurance issues to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Contact a Scranton Rideshare Accident Lawyer
At The Slocum Firm, we understand the challenges of navigating insurance claims and seeking fair compensation for injuries sustained in rideshare accidents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to provide the legal representation you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Call 570-209-7376 today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
