In downtown San Diego, around the airport, and near tourist spots, ridesharing has become quite common. While hailing an Uber or Lyft ride has almost simplified your commute, you cannot ignore the risks of accidents associated with it. Many drivers have been found to be indulging in drunk driving and distracted driving. If a passenger gets hurt in a rideshare accident, they usually seek compensation from the driver and the rideshare company. But it's not a straightforward process. A rideshare company may refuse to take ownership of the incident. How should you deal with it? You cannot achieve much without proper legal support.
It's always better to proceed in these cases with the backing of car accidents lawyers. They know which actions to take to obtain compensation from the responsible parties. Here's a quick overview.
· Examining the Insurance Policy of the Rideshare Company
Uber, Lyft, or any other rideshare company usually covers accidents caused by its drivers. However, there can be specific terms and conditions that allow them to claim they don't have to pay damages. Think about situations like not using the driver app, waiting for a ride, etc. A lawyer would look into all these details, along with identifying compensation limits. At the same time, your lawyer will also determine whether you should seek compensation from the rideshare company's insurer or the driver's personal coverage.
· Establishing the Driver’s Negligence
Even though the company refuses to be held accountable for the incident, your lawyer can help you prove that the driver's negligence played a crucial role in the accident by collecting evidence. They can gather witness statements, traffic recordings, and other materials that reveal distracted driving, reckless behavior, or speeding. An expert lawyer can also recreate the collision scene to determine fault.
· Claiming Compensation from the Driver
The next step can be filing a claim with the at-fault driver's personal car insurance if they were not on duty or not working for the ridesharing company at that time. Lawyers also make sure their insurance policy provides enough coverage for damages. If not, they may file a lawsuit against the driver, primarily if the person engaged in careless, aggressive, or otherwise negligent driving.
· Holding the Rideshare Company Liable
Suppose none of those procedures works. In that case, the lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit against the rideshare company. They will navigate this step by considering all possible legal arguments. You can expect your attorney to question the company about negligence in training or hiring the driver. They can claim damages from the driver and the company for lost earnings, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. The lawyer will also be ready for settlement negotiations or trial, depending on the circumstances.
It's an extensive process, but a seasoned lawyer knows how to pull the right strings. For guidance, you can go to hhjtrialattorneys.com. With experienced attorneys, you never hit a dead end until a fair settlement is reached. To be precise, they can also investigate other potentially responsible parties, such as a car manufacturer, a pedestrian, or another passenger in a rideshare car. Hence, you must approach them for help.
