As a large city and major hub, the city offers visitors and residents alike access to ridesharing. However, when drivers are negligent, an accident can occur. However, these types of collisions are much more challenging to resolve than a typical car accident. A rideshare accident lawyer in Greensboro can provide valuable guidance to help you navigate the aftermath of a crash.
Shane Smith Law understands the nuances of rideshare accident claims and is equipped to act quickly and aggressively fight for you when you have been injured. A Greensboro car accident lawyer on our team can provide counsel and build a strong case that delivers results. We have been helping clients since 2009, and we actively protect your rights at every step as we advocate on your behalf.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Greensboro
Any type of car accident is unsettling, but rideshare accidents have the added uncertainty about who you file your claim against as a victim. Given the structure of a rideshare company and that more people are involved in the accident, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and gather evidence of the accident and any losses that you’ve suffered.
After an accident, you should file a police report so there’s a record of what occurred. Photos and videos are also important for providing concrete evidence of what occurred. Getting contact information and statements from witnesses can also help support your claim. Additionally, you should receive a medical exam as soon as possible and get treated for injuries.
While the next steps involve submitting your claim to the appropriate insurance company, it is beneficial to talk with a rideshare accident attorney in Greensboro first. They can provide insight into your options, help ensure your claim is as strong as possible, and protect you from bad faith tactics that the insurance company may try. Our Greensboro personal injury lawyers can also negotiate on your behalf to help you recover the maximum amount.
For a free legal consultation with a rideshare accident lawyer serving Greensboro, call (980) 246-2656
Driver Status Is Important in Rideshare Accidents
Part of what makes rideshare accidents so complicated is that who you file your claim against is significantly impacted by the status of the rideshare driver at the time of the accident. Drivers must meet all state-mandated minimum insurance requirements so that, if they’re offline and not accepting rides in the app, their own insurance policy can cover any damages they may cause.
To mitigate liability, Uber and Lyft generally classify drivers as independent contractors, so the rideshare companies only have to pay out if certain conditions are met. Uber provides insurance for rideshare and delivery drivers only when they’re active in the app. Rideshare drivers also benefit from the same type of insurance coverage while driving with Lyft.
However, if an accident occurs while a driver is online and available for a trip, then Uber or Lyft’s third-party liability insurance covers $50,000/person, $100,000/accident, and $25,000 for property damage. If a rideshare driver is en route to pick up a passenger or is on an active trip, then the rideshare company’s $1,000,000 policy coverage applies. Lawyers examine driver status closely during a case.
Greensboro Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (980) 246-2656
Liability Must be Established by a Greensboro Rideshare Accident Attorney Before Resolving Rideshare Claims
Regardless of who you file your claim against, you will need to establish that party’s negligence in order to fully resolve your case. Every claim you make in your case must be backed up with evidence, both of what you have suffered and what the other party’s role was in causing your injuries and other losses. This is especially important given the complexities of these cases, and Shane Smith Law can guide you.
Negligence is built on four elements, each of which must be satisfied to be successful. The first is showing that the other driver owed you a duty of care to ensure your safety. By acting carelessly or recklessly, they breached their duty of care. This, in turn, caused the accident and your subsequent losses. Because the other driver caused your damages, they must pay for them and offset your losses.
By completing this process, the at-fault party can be held liable for their actions, and you can move forward with recovering your losses. However, since North Carolina applies contributory negligence laws to accidents, even 1% of fault could cost you compensation. Because of this, and because insurance companies are attempting to blame and deny claims, it’s important to talk with a lawyer right away.
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A Settlement Can Provide Considerable Relief After a Rideshare Accident
Compensation after a rideshare accident can provide significant relief when you’re overwhelmed by the cost of medical care and other expenses. These losses can affect your life in more ways than you might expect, and recovering your losses is the first step toward rebuilding your life and regaining a sense of stability and control. Some losses that you may be able to recover may include the following:
- Expenses for medical care and recovery services
- Property damage
- Lost earnings or earning potential
- End-of-life, funeral, and burial expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of companionship or consortium
A lawyer can discuss your situation with you and assess your losses to determine how to pursue compensation after a rideshare accident. This includes calculating the value of your case and determining which party will help you recover your losses most effectively. They can also walk you through what factors may affect how much compensation you may be able to recover.
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Shane Smith Law is Ready to Fight for You
Shane Smith Law carefully examines all evidence and details of your case to ensure you receive the support you need when it’s most critical. A Greensboro rideshare accident lawyer negotiates on your behalf and helps you recover more than you would if you handle your case yourself.
To learn more about our personal injury law firm and how we can serve you, schedule a free consultation today.
Call or text (980) 246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form