Lake Charles Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Lake Charles Rideshare Accident Attorney

When a rideshare accident disrupts your life, knowing your rights becomes important. A Lake Charles rideshare accident lawyer can help you make informed decisions and pursue fair compensation for your losses. Seeking guidance can ease the stress of this difficult time.

Take Steps Now to Protect Your Interests

At Lee M. Schwalben, M.D., J.D., we can investigate your rideshare accident by examining the vehicles involved, reviewing the crash scene, and interviewing witnesses. As a dedicated Lake Charles personal injury attorney, we bring a unique perspective to personal injury claims with a background in both medicine and law. Our dedication to supporting families dealing with severe injuries or tragic losses brings justice to our clients.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents in Lake Charles are influenced by several common factors that increase risk for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. While many causes mirror typical accident trends, the nature of rideshare driving adds more risk, including:

• Driver distraction or inattention. Rideshare drivers frequently rely on mobile apps for navigation and passenger communication, leading to distracted driving. In Louisiana, cell phones alone caused over 2,500 car accidents in 2021, not to mention other electronic devices and other forms of distractions in a vehicle.
• Speeding or reckless driving. Tight schedules often push rideshare drivers to speed, especially on major highways like I-10 and I-12. In 2021, there were a total of 149 fatal interstate crashes on popular highways, largely due to speeding and other reckless behaviors. This is a particular danger in congested traffic zones.
• Improper vehicle maintenance. Rideshare vehicles endure frequent use, which accelerates wear and tear. Louisiana’s humid climate and heavy rains increase the risk of mechanical failure, which accounted for 51 crashes in 2021 statewide.

• Inadequate driver training. Rideshare drivers require only a standard driver’s license, with no training for Louisiana’s diverse road conditions. In areas with narrow streets or high tourist traffic, inexperienced drivers face greater risks.
• Local traffic challenges. When an event is in town, the tourist-driven demand for rideshares heightens accident risks, particularly near high-traffic areas. With a population of roughly 80,000, Lake Charles can experience more traffic than nearby rural parishes.

Rideshare accidents require careful investigation to identify contributing factors and determine liability. Gathering evidence like app data and driver history is essential in these cases.

Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents

Establishing liability in Louisiana rideshare accidents often involves several parties. The rideshare driver may be directly liable if negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, caused the crash.

Depending on the driver’s status in the rideshare app, coverage may come from their personal insurance or the rideshare company’s corporate policy. Rideshare companies may face liability if their negligence, such as inadequate driver screening, contributed to the crash.

Additionally, third-party drivers may share responsibility in multi-vehicle collisions. Louisiana’s comparative fault law allows liability to be divided based on the degree of fault each party holds. Victims may face reduced compensation if they are found partially responsible for the accident.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

After a rideshare accident in Louisiana, certain steps can protect your rights and improve your chance of a successful claim. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Report the accident to local authorities, as Louisiana law requires reporting an accident involving injury or major property damage.

Document the accident scene by taking photos of vehicles, injuries, and road conditions. Collect witness contact details and the rideshare driver’s information. Contracting a qualified attorney is recommended to help identify which insurance policies apply and to preserve evidence.

Compensation in Rideshare Accident Claims

Victims of rideshare accidents in Louisiana can pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Medical costs may include hospital bills and ongoing rehabilitation.

Lost wages cover income lost during recovery or reduced earning capacity. Pain and suffering damages address physical pain and emotional distress. Property damage claims may involve vehicle repairs or replacement. Louisiana’s comparative fault laws may reduce compensation if the victim shares responsibility for the accident.

FAQs

Q: Why Do I Need an Attorney?

A: Legal representation is important in rideshare accident cases due to the complexity of insurance claims and liability disputes. Attorneys investigate the accident and review the evidence. They negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation and address disputes regarding coverage limits. Legal guidance is especially valuable in Louisiana’s fault-based system, where insurers may attempt to shift blame or minimize payouts.

Q: How Do I File a Claim Against Uber for an Accident?

A: Filing a claim against Uber for an accident is a complicated process. Liability often depends on whether the driver was logged into the Uber app at the time of the crash. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick someone up, Uber’s insurance policy may apply. If the driver was logged in but not on a trip, a lower coverage limit may apply. Consult an attorney who can discuss your available coverage options.

Q: What Happens If an Uber Driver Gets in an Accident?

A: If an Uber driver gets in an accident, several factors influence the outcome. Uber’s insurance coverage applies depending on the driver’s status in the app. If the driver was transporting a passenger or on their way to a pickup, Uber’s policy typically covers damages. If the driver was logged in but waiting for a ride request, a reduced coverage policy may apply. If the driver was off-duty or offline, their personal insurance generally covers damages.

Q: How Does Insurance Coverage Work in a Rideshare Accident Case?

A: Insurance coverage works in a rideshare accident case based on each rideshare company’s specific policy. For example, if the driver was on duty, Uber’s $1 million policy covers injuries and damages. When the driver is logged in but awaiting a request, coverage is reduced to $25,000 per person for injuries and $50,000 per accident. If the driver is off duty, their personal auto insurance applies.

Advocate for Your Interests

Rideshare companies and insurers may attempt to limit your recovery. An experienced attorney can fight back to hold them accountable and help you secure the maximum compensation available under the law. Schedule a consultation with Lee M. Schwalben, M.D., J.D., to assess your options for recovery from a rideshare accident.