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Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become very popular in Portland and Woodburn, offering convenient rides for residents and tourists alike. However, as more ridesharing vehicles hit our Portland roads, the chances of accidents that involve them increase over time.
Therefore, it’s important for Oregonians to understand the legal issues surrounding rideshare accidents. If you’re ever involved in one, you’ll need to know how to prove what happened. You’ll also need to know which insurance company will be responsible for paying your accident settlement.
This article will discuss those issues and more, but if you’ve been in a ridesharing accident in Portland or Woodburn, call Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law for expert advice.
Common Causes of Ridesharing Accidents
Ridesharing accidents can happen for many reasons. Distracted driving is a big problem, as drivers often look at their GPS or manage their rideshare app while driving. Speeding is another common cause because drivers want to pick up and drop off passengers quickly to make more money. Driver fatigue is also an issue, especially for those working long hours or multiple jobs. Additionally, poor vehicle maintenance can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents. Knowing these risks can help passengers stay alert and promote safer driving practices.
Determining Liability in Ridesharing Accidents
Figuring out who is at fault in ridesharing accidents can be tricky. Unlike regular car accidents, ridesharing accidents involve multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers or pedestrians. Several factors must be considered to establish who is at fault.
- Driver Negligence: The rideshare driver’s actions play a big role in determining liability. If the driver was distracted, impaired, or broke traffic laws, they might be considered negligent and thus responsible for the accident. However, proving negligence requires a thorough investigation and evidence collection.
- Company Policies: Uber and Lyft have specific policies and terms of service that can impact liability. For example, both companies require their drivers to undergo background checks and vehicle inspections. If a company fails to enforce these policies, it could be held partially liable for an accident caused by an unqualified or unsafe driver.
- Insurance Coverage: Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage for their drivers, but the coverage varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up, the rideshare company’s insurance typically covers the accident. However, if the driver was not engaged in rideshare activities, their personal insurance may be the primary coverage.
Steps to Take After a Ridesharing Accident
If you’re involved in a ridesharing accident, there are some important steps you should take to protect yourself and your rights. First, make sure everyone is safe and seek medical attention if necessary. Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Next, document the scene of the accident. Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Gather contact information from all parties involved, including witnesses. This information can be crucial for your case later on.
Contact the rideshare company to report the accident. They will have their own procedures for handling such incidents, and it’s important to follow their guidelines. Lastly, consult with a skilled car accident attorney who has experience with ridesharing accidents, like Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law. We can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage for their drivers, depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident. If the driver was waiting for a ride request, the coverage is usually lower. Once the driver accepts a ride and is en route to pick up a passenger, the coverage increases. While transporting a passenger, the coverage is at its highest.
These varying levels of coverage can make determining liability and insurance payouts tricky. It’s important to understand which coverage applies in your situation and how it affects your claim. Our knowledgeable attorneys can help clarify these details and ensure you’re properly compensated for your damages.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Getting legal representation from a skilled car accident attorney is crucial when dealing with ridesharing accidents. An experienced lawyer can help navigate the legal issues of these cases and make sure all responsible parties are held accountable. Here are a few ways we can help:
- Explaining the Legal Process: Our car accident attorneys can explain your rights and guide you through the legal process. We can help you understand the steps involved in filing a claim, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our attorneys can negotiate on your behalf so that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. This includes covering medical expenses, lost wages, and any other related costs stemming from the accident.
- Fighting for Compensation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we can represent you in court. We will fight to ensure you receive everything you are owed from the responsible parties.
Why Choose Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law
At Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law, we specialize in handling ridesharing accident cases in Portland and Woodburn. Our experienced team understands the difficulties of these cases and is dedicated to providing top-notch legal representation all across Oregon. We will thoroughly investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and build a strong claim to ensure you receive the compensation you need.
Call Us Today
Ridesharing accidents in Portland and Woodburn present unique legal challenges, particularly when it comes to determining liability and negotiating with insurance companies. If you have been involved in a ridesharing accident, it’s important to seek legal representation from a skilled car accident attorney.
At Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law, we have the experience and expertise you need to handle your case effectively. Contact us today at (503) 287-5000 to learn how we can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
