Rideshare Accident

Rideshare Accident Lawyers in St. Louis

Helping You Weather Life After an Injury

In the aftermath of a rideshare accident, the road to recovery can feel overwhelming. Physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burdens can make everyday tasks seem insurmountable. At Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, we understand the hardship you’re experiencing, and we’re committed to helping you reclaim your life. The negligence of another driver should never be the cause of your pain, but life happens sometimes and families are affected.
These families bear a heavy burden when a loved one is injured in a car wreck. These accidents can lead to life-altering conditions, which can impose tremendous stress on family members who must adjust their lives to provide care. The financial implications are often overwhelming with steep medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income adding up quickly. There can also be emotional trauma as family members grapple with the shock and aftermath of the accident.
Our dedicated attorneys in St. Louis possess a deep understanding of rideshare accident cases and use this knowledge to fight for the compensation you deserve. We handle every case with care, prioritizing your needs and striving for a fair resolution. Don’t let the aftermath of an accident control your life, take the first step to recovery by reaching out to us. Call us today at 303-276-3885, and let us help you weather life after an injury.

What are the Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents?

Driver Inattention and Fatigue

One of the most common causes of rideshare accidents is driver inattention. Rideshare drivers often engage in multitasking, such as managing their app, locating passengers, or planning routes while driving. This split focus can lead to lapses in concentration and increased reaction times, resulting in collisions. Additionally, fatigue is a significant concern. Rideshare drivers often work long hours or during late-night shifts when demand is high, which can result in drowsy driving and compromised road safety.

Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance

Rideshare vehicles are often personal cars that may not undergo rigorous maintenance checks. Inadequate vehicle maintenance, such as worn brake pads or bald tires, can drastically increase the risk of an accident. As a passenger, you trust the vehicle’s safety, but the truth is, that mechanical failure due to neglected maintenance is a common cause of rideshare accidents.

Lack of Training

Professional taxi drivers undergo extensive training and are subject to strict regulations. However, most rideshare drivers use the same license they use for personal driving. Without proper training, they may lack the necessary skills or knowledge to handle challenging situations on the road, such as poor weather conditions or navigating heavy traffic. This gap can contribute to road mishaps.

Reckless Driving and Speeding

At times, rideshare drivers may engage in reckless behavior, including speeding, to pick up more fares within a short time. Unfortunately, this risky behavior increases the probability of accidents. Rideshare platforms may indirectly encourage such action due to their pay-per-ride system. A commitment to safety should always supersede the desire to maximize earnings.
Understanding these common causes is the first step in mitigating the risk of rideshare accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t hesitate to contact Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys to discuss your case.

Who is Liable in a Rideshare Accident in Colorado?

Unraveling liability in a rideshare accident in Colorado is a multi-layered process. Broadly speaking, three parties could potentially be held accountable: the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other involved drivers. Providing negligence can be a massive boon in your compensation chances and our team is always there to prove liability.
Rideshare drivers are contractors rather than employees, thus distancing the rideshare company from direct responsibility. However, under Colorado law, rideshare companies are required to provide insurance coverage for their drivers. If an accident occurs during an active ride, this insurance might cover the damages, depending on the specifics of the situation and the level of the driver’s personal insurance.
The driver of the rideshare vehicle could also be held responsible for any accidents, especially if their negligence or recklessness caused the incident. If the driver is not carrying a passenger or en route to pick up one, the insurance coverage from the rideshare company drastically drops, and the driver’s personal insurance becomes the primary coverage.
Lastly, liability could fall on other drivers involved in the accident. If another driver’s actions led to the accident, their insurance should cover the damages.
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be challenging, given the interplay of various factors. It demands a thorough understanding of the law, careful evaluation of the accident, and detailed analysis of all insurance policies involved. Therefore, seeking legal advice from Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys to help you through this potentially overwhelming process becomes vital.

What Damages Can I Recover Through a Rideshare Accident Claim?

In the unfortunate event of a rideshare accident, the law provides recourse for victims. There are several categories of damages that you could potentially recover, depending on the severity of the accident and its resultant impact on your life.

Medical Expenses

The cost of medical care following a rideshare accident forms a significant part of your claim. These expenses include but are not limited to hospitalization bills, the cost of medication, physical therapy, and any future medical requirements related to the accident.

Lost Wages

If the injuries sustained in the accident hinder your ability to work, you can claim compensation for lost wages. This also covers reduced earning capacity, should the accident leave you unable to perform at the same level professionally.

Pain and Suffering

The law acknowledges the non-economic impact of an accident. Emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life – all come under the ambit of pain and suffering and can be claimed in a rideshare accident.

Property Damage

If your personal belongings, such as a vehicle or a bicycle, were damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for these losses as well.
It might not always be straightforward to secure compensation in a rideshare accident scenario. Rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, generally have extensive insurance policies. However, these companies often contend that drivers are “independent contractors” rather than employees, which can create ambiguity regarding who bears the liability.
Also, insurance companies may dispute the extent of injuries or damages to reduce the compensation payout. We, at Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, are committed to helping you understand and assert your rights in these challenging times.

When Should I Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in St. Louis?

In the aftermath of a rideshare accident, you may be confronted by a myriad of challenges – from dealing with injuries to negotiating with insurance companies. It is during these taxing times that you should consider hiring a rideshare accident lawyer. As soon as possible following the incident, reach out to a legal professional. Prompt action can facilitate the effective gathering and preservation of crucial evidence that supports your claim. Additionally, insurance companies may attempt to downplay your injuries or deny your claim outright. A lawyer can provide a strong voice, advocating on your behalf and ensuring your rights are adequately represented.
Moreover, legal proceedings can be convoluted and time-consuming. A dedicated lawyer proficient in St. Louis personal injury law can shoulder this burden, allowing you to focus on recovery. They can guide you through each step of the process, from filing the claim to negotiating a fair settlement or preparing for trial if necessary. Having a legal representative in your corner can be the difference between a stressful ordeal and a just resolution.
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, the time to hire a lawyer is now. At Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys, we stand ready to serve as your advocates, championing your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today for a consultation at 303-276-3885!