Ridesharing in Austin – Know Your Rights
Uber and Lyft are a big business in Austin, Texas. You likely use rideshare companies at least occasionally, and most of the time, you get to your destination without any issue. What happens if the Uber or Lyft driver gets in an accident while transporting you, and you sustain injuries? You can file a claim to collect damages resulting from the accident. Find out more about your legal rights if you’ve been in an Uber or Lyft accident in Austin. Then, consult with an attorney, so you can file a claim and collect damages.
Who Is Liable for the Accident?
Your rideshare accident attorney will investigate the accident to determine who is at fault. While some Uber and Lyft accidents are caused by vehicle malfunctions, poor road conditions, or other drivers, most are the result of driver error on behalf of the rideshare operator. If the driver is online and working for Uber or Lyft at the time of the accident, you can file a claim against the rideshare company. However, if the driver is not online, you will have to file a claim against his or her insurance policy. Your attorney will ensure that you file a claim against the appropriate party or parties.
How to Report the Accident
If you’ve been in an accident, you need to report it to the police and the rideshare company. You will need to access the rideshare app and then find the number for reporting accidents. Call that number to speak to the rideshare company. Remember you don’t have to get into the details about the accident. Your car accident attorney will investigate it for you. Providing too many details could hurt your claim, so simply report the accident.
What Damages Can You Collect?
Your attorney will assess your case and potential damages. You might be eligible for medical bills, lost wages and income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. Your attorney will determine what you are owed and then fight to collect compensation on your behalf.
When to File a Claim
You have up to two years to file a claim after an Uber or Lyft accident. However, waiting until the time is almost up can hurt your claim. Insurance agencies are less likely to negotiate in your favor if you wait close to two years. Also, you can lose evidence, making it more challenging to prove your claim. Contact a lawyer immediately after your rideshare accident, so you can take the next step.
Find Out More About Filing a Claim for a Rideshare Accident
You likely have bills and other damages as a result of your rideshare accident. You can seek damages and hold the rideshare company or driver accountable by filing a claim. Speak to an Austin personal injury attorney such as Steven. C. Lee & Associates to begin the process.
Steven C. Lee is a personal injury lawyer in Austin, Texas specializing in truck accidents, car accidents, bicycle accidents, drunk driving accidents, motorcycle accidents, construction site accidents and wrongful death cases.
Steven C. Lee is a member of the Texas Bar, Top 100 Trial Lawyers, Texas Trial Lawyers Association and a member of the BBB in Austin, TX. You can view Steven C. Lee’s LinkedIn Profile here.