Galveston Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Galveston Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare accidents can cause unique complications for the parties involved. Rideshare drivers often rely on third-party liability coverage when they are on the clock. Since rideshare drivers are independent contractors, it may not always be clear which person or group should pay for your car damage or bodily injury. If you were involved in a car collision involving a rideshare company, you can hire a Galveston rideshare lawyer to represent you.

The attorneys at Stevenson & Murray understand Texas’s driving and personal injury laws. Our attorneys can find the party who is responsible for your injury and hold them accountable through tough negotiations or direct legal action. Many of our clients have received favorable settlements after being harmed while using a rideshare service or hit by a rideshare driver.

Why Choose Stevenson & Murray?

If you were injured while traveling in a rideshare vehicle or after being struck by one, determining fault without the help of an attorney could be difficult. Rideshare companies have intricate insurance policies, and drivers are considered independent contractors. Our experienced Galveston personal injury attorneys can navigate these challenges by identifying all liable parties. Then, we can seek the compensation you deserve.

Establishing Fault in a Rideshare Accident

Establishing fault in a rideshare accident is typically more complicated than in a collision involving only regular motor vehicles. Accidents involving pedestrians and drivers could result in a case where either or both parties are partly at fault or liable for any damages caused by the collision.

If the driver fails to follow traffic laws, such as yielding the right of way or obeying speed limits, they are likely to be held responsible. If the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated crosswalk or not following traffic signals, they may share some of the blame. Texas’s liability laws allow both the plaintiff and the defendant to share a portion of liability for a case.

Third parties may also contribute to the accident. Police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage are often crucial pieces of evidence that can be used to understand what led to the accident.

Who Is Financially Liable for Damages Following a Rideshare Collision?

The driver who caused the collision is financially responsible for any physical damage or bodily injury resulting from the accident. When rideshare vehicles are involved, the status of the rideshare driver is key to determining who is financially liable for the collision.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft specify that the driver bears responsibility for any accidents they cause if the driver is not actively picking up or delivering a customer. Often, the status of the phone app is used to determine whether the driver was on or off duty at the time of the collision.

If the rideshare driver was not actively using the app when the collision occurred, their personal insurance policy would typically be responsible for covering damages. In cases where both drivers share fault, Texas’s comparative negligence law will apply, and financial liability will be divided based on each party’s percentage of fault.

It’s important to note that insurance companies, whether personal or through the rideshare provider, may try to limit payouts. Having legal representation can greatly improve the chances that you are successful when seeking compensation for an injury.

FAQs

Does Uber Cover Accidents in Texas?

Yes, Uber covers accidents through its third-party liability insurance, which includes at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries, along with $25,000 for property damage. Uber may also provide additional coverage for hit-and-run incidents or accidents involving uninsured drivers. Furthermore, it may offer personal injury protection and coverage for medical treatment, regardless of fault.

What Do I Do If My Uber Driver Was in an Accident?

If your Uber driver was in an accident, prioritize your safety by checking for injuries and calling 911 if needed. Document the scene with photos, and exchange information with the driver. Report the accident to Uber through the app.

Consider consulting an attorney if you sustained injuries or damages. Your lawyer can communicate directly with Uber to seek a fair settlement that covers your bodily injury and other losses.

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident to Your Insurance in Texas?

Reporting requirements for insurance companies vary from company to company, but most carriers require policyholders to report accidents as soon as possible. Insurance companies may initiate an investigation to find the cause of the accident or begin determining what settlement payments should be made.

All these steps require time and resources from the insurance companies, so they often expect customers to notify them of a collision in a timely manner.

How Does Uber Know About an Accident?

Uber can become aware of an accident through several methods. First, drivers or passengers can report the accident directly through the app. Uber also uses GPS and smartphone sensors. Additionally, third-party reports from law enforcement or insurance companies can alert Uber to an accident involving one of its drivers.

If you were injured in a collision that involved a rideshare company, your lawyer can also notify Uber about the collision as part of the settlement process.

When Should I Accept a Settlement Following an Accident?

You should consider accepting a settlement under the advice of a trusted lawyer. The decision to accept a settlement is yours and yours alone. No one should ever pressure you into settling for less than you are owed. Fair compensation should fully cover your financial losses and even your future medical treatments.

Schedule Your Rideshare Accident Consultation Today

Given the high number of ridesharing services in Galveston, a rideshare injury could happen at any time. If you were hurt due to the negligence or misconduct of a rideshare driver, hiring a Galveston rideshare accident attorney can greatly improve the chances that you receive compensation.

Uber and Lyft can and should be held to high standards, and any negligent acts their drivers commit can make them liable for any resulting injuries or property damage. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.