How Can a Lawyer Help After a Ride-Share Car Accident?

This article originally appeared on scholarlyoa.com

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become incredibly popular in recent years, providing a convenient and affordable way for people to get around. With just a few taps on our smartphones, we can hail a ride and be on our way to the store, airport, or meet a friend across the other side of town in a matter of minutes.

With over 150 million monthly users between the two ride-sharing service companies, it’s more than clear just how much people depend on them for transportation. However, as the number of ride-share users has grown, so has the number of accidents involving these services.

A study by the University of Chicago Booth School of Business found that the emergence of ride-sharing services sparked a 3% increase in fatal motor vehicle accidents. This means that about 1,000 people lose their lives every day in car accidents as a result of these vehicles.

That said, if you happen to be involved in a ride-share accident, you may be wondering what your options are and how to best protect your rights. This is where an Uber accident lawyer can help.

An Overview of Uber Accident Lawyers

An Uber accident lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing clients who have been involved in accidents while using ride-sharing services like Uber. They work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for any injuries or damages sustained in the accident.

In this article, we’ll explore the ways in which a lawyer can assist you in the aftermath of a ride-share car accident, from navigating insurance claims to seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. So, whether you’re a passenger, driver, or pedestrian involved in a ride-share accident, read on to learn how a lawyer can help you get back on the road to recovery.

5 Different Ways an Uber Accident Lawyer Can Help

1. Determine if You Have a Valid Claim

The first thing a lawyer can do for you after a ride-share accident is to listen to your case and determine if you have a claim against the ride-share company, the driver, or another party, and if the claim is credible.

This will involve going over the details of the accident with you, reviewing any evidence you may have such as the accident report, witness statements, or medical records, and assessing the strength of your case.

If the lawyer determines that you have a worthy claim, they help you understand your legal options and the potential outcomes of your case. This may include gathering additional evidence, filing a claim with the insurance company, or pursuing legal action. They will also help you understand what types of damages you may be entitled to, such as compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

2. Gather Evidence and Build a Solid Case

If the lawyer determines that you have a valid claim, they can then begin to gather evidence and build a solid case on your behalf. This may involve obtaining police reports, witness statements, and medical records proving that you suffered as a result of the other party’s negligence.

They might also conduct their own investigation into the accident by tapping into close networks and resources such as accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to gather the evidence needed to support your claim. For example, a medical expert can provide testimony regarding the extent of your injuries and the potential long-term effects.

3. Help You File an Official Claim

Once your lawyer has gathered the necessary evidence, they will submit a formal request for compensation to the responsible party or their insurance company. This request will outline the extent of your injuries and damages and provide a detailed account of what happened during the accident.

The insurance company will then review the claim and determine if they are liable for the damages. If they accept liability, they will typically offer a settlement amount to cover your damages. If they deny liability, your lawyer may need to pursue legal action to recover the compensation you deserve.

That said, filing a claim can be complex considering it may not be your field of expertise. But a lawyer can help you navigate the process effectively and ensure that your claim is filed correctly. They can also help you understand the legal requirements for filing a claim, such as the statute of limitations, which limits the amount of time you have to file a claim after an accident.

4. Negotiate with Insurance and Ride-Share Companies

Negotiating with insurance companies and ride-share companies can be one of the most challenging aspects of a ride-share accident claim. Insurance companies are often more concerned with protecting their own interests than with providing fair compensation to accident victims. Ride-share companies may also be reluctant to accept liability for accidents involving their drivers.

That’s why you need an Uber accident lawyer to handle all negotiations on your behalf, working to secure the best possible settlement for your case.

A lawyer can help you negotiate with insurance companies and ride-share companies to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. They can use their knowledge of the law and their experience negotiating with insurance companies to help you reach a fair settlement.

5. File a Lawsuit and Represent You In Court

If negotiations with the insurance company and ride-share company are unsuccessful, your lawyer may need to file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

They will prepare your case and present it to a judge or jury, arguing on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve. They can also help you prepare for court appearances, such as depositions and hearings, and ensure that you receive fair treatment in court.

Throughout the litigation process, you can expect your lawyer to keep you informed of any developments in your case and provide guidance on the best course of action to take.

In Conclusion

A ride-share accident, or any car-related accident for that matter, can be a traumatic and life-changing experience. However, with the help of a skilled and experienced lawyer, you can get the compensation you deserve and get back on the road to recovery. So, if you’ve been involved in a ride-share accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to an Uber accident lawyer for help.

If you want to know how do ride-share accidents differ from ordinary car accidents click here.