Hampton Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Ridesharing, such as Uber and Lyft, has become increasingly popular in recent years, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for millions of people worldwide. With just a few clicks, users quickly and easily summon a ride to a desired destination. However, as with any form of transportation, accidents can and do happen. Rideshare accidents can be devastating, leaving passengers with serious injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. 

During this challenging time, it is essential to have the guidance and support of an experienced vehicle accident lawyer at Waterman Law Centers, PLLC. We have extensive experience handling vehicle accident cases and dedicate ourselves to helping clients obtain the justice and compensation they deserve. 

Why You Need a Hampton Rideshare Accident Lawyer

The laws surrounding rideshare accidents are unique. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you should not risk your right to recovery by handling your case alone. At Waterman Law Centers, PLLC, we understand the challenges your claim will face and know how to mitigate them with award-winning legal strategies. 

We can help increase your chances of success in a rideshare accident claim in the following ways: 

  • Gathering evidence like police reports, medical records, and employment records
  • Answering all your legal questions
  • Filing your claim timely and otherwise properly 
  • Negotiating with insurance companies
  • Determining who is liable for your injuries
  • Calculating your damages
  • Utilizing resources like medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists
  • Taking your case to trial if necessary
  • Researching medical and technical literature

Rideshare laws and regulations are constantly evolving, so you need a knowledgeable Hampton rideshare accident attorney on your side to build a robust claim. In Virginia, rideshare drivers are typically regarded as independent contractors, which can affect your legal options. 

Liability in a Hampton Rideshare Accident

In Hampton, VA, liability for a rideshare accident can be complex and can depend on the specific circumstances of the accident. Generally, one or more of the following parties can be at fault: 

  • The rideshare driver: If the rideshare driver caused the accident, he or she is responsible for any injuries sustained in the accident. 
  • The rideshare company: In some cases, the rideshare company can also be liable for an accident caused by one of its drivers. For example, the company is likely responsible if it failed to conduct a proper background check or if the driver worked within their scope of employment with the rideshare app active.
  • Involved third parties: If another driver or passenger caused the accident, he or she is liable for contributing to or causing a collision with the rideshare vehicle. 
  • Vehicle manufacturers: If the accident was caused by a defect in a rideshare vehicle, such as faulty brakes or a defective airbag, the vehicle manufacturer is liable for damages sustained in the accident. 

Rideshare drivers are generally required to have an auto accident insurance policy that meets state requirements. In addition to damages that one can recover through personal insurance, Uber and Lyft have a coverage system that will change depending on circumstances:

  • When a driver is logged into the rideshare app and waiting for a ride request, Uber or Lyft provides liability insurance coverage. This insurance covers up to $50,000 per person injured, up to $100,000 per accident and up to $25,000 in property damages. 
  • Once a driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle, their coverage increases to $1,000,000 in liability coverage for accidents. 
  • Uber and Lyft provide uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage for drivers and passengers in cases of an accident with an offending driver without insurance or inadequate coverage. 

It is important to note that while Uber and Lyft’s insurance policies provide coverage for rideshare accidents, there can be limitations. It is in your best interest to consult an experienced Hampton rideshare accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and options in the event of a rideshare accident. 

Recovering Compensation in a Successful Rideshare Accident Claim

Depending on the circumstances of your rideshare accident, such as the extent of your injuries and the severity of the collision, you can pursue economic and/or non-economic damages. Economic damages are the tangible monetary losses you have incurred due to negligence, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages are subject to and awarded based on how the accident impacted your body, mind and/or quality of life, and as such are not calculable with mathematical precision.

In a successful rideshare accident claim, you can recover the following losses: 

  • Pain, suffering, and inconvenience 
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Continuing disability and limitations
  • Medical bills
  • Property damage
  • Lost wages from missed work
  • Mental anguish

At Waterman Law Centers, PLLC, we can help you determine the types of damages you can recover and the value of your overall claim, given the injuries and other losses you suffered due to someone else’s negligence. 

Consult a Hampton Rideshare Accident Lawyer at Waterman Law Centers, PLLC

If you have been involved in a Hampton rideshare accident, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your legal rights and seek the legal guidance of an experienced Hampton rideshare accident lawyer at Waterman Law Centers, PLLC

Rideshare accidents can be overwhelming. With 40 years of award-winning services, we can handle all aspects of your case and provide the support you need to move forward. 

Avery T. “Sandy” Waterman Jr., Esq. is named in The Best Lawyers In America for Personal Injury for 2007-2023, and was voted its “Lawyer of the Year” in 2022 by his peers in Southeast Virginia; and Waterman Law Centers is listed as a Metropolitan Tier 1 Best Law Firm for Personal Injury in U.S. News & World Report for 2021-2023.

Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (757) 906-4707 or filling out our contact form