Chicago Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer

Fighting For Rideshare Accident Victims in Illinois

Getting into a car crash is always a traumatic experience, but it can be even more so when you are a passenger and have no control over the situation. This is the case for those who are riding in an Uber or Lyft vehicle when a crash occurs. In addition to the physical pain and emotional trauma that can come from a crash, victims are also left to figure out how to get the compensation they need for their medical bills and other expenses.

At Driscoll Law Group, we have extensive experience handling complex car accident cases, including those involving rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft. Our firm is here to help you navigate the process of receiving compensation after a crash. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of legal representation to each of our clients and will fight to get you the damages you are owed.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact our firm online or call us at (312) 626-3008 to schedule a consultation with one of our Chicago uber/lyft accident attorneys.

What to Do After an Uber/Lyft Accident

Being in a car crash can be a disorienting and traumatic experience. However, it is important to stay as calm as possible and take certain steps to protect your rights and interests after a crash. The following are some steps you should take after a crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle:

• Report the accident – If you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle that is involved in a crash, you should report the accident to the rideshare company. The driver will also report the accident, but it is a good idea for you to do so as well.
• Get medical attention – Even if you do not think you have been seriously injured, you should still see a doctor as soon as possible after a crash. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a doctor will be able to diagnose any injuries you may have sustained and begin treatment.
• Collect evidence – If you are able, you should try to collect as much evidence as possible at the scene of the crash. This includes taking pictures of the crash, getting the names and contact information of any witnesses, and getting the name and contact information of the Uber or Lyft driver.
• Get the driver’s information – In addition to getting the driver’s name and phone number, you should also get the name and contact information of the Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance company, as well as the driver’s license plate number.
• Contact a personal injury lawyer – You should contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a crash. An attorney will be able to help you navigate the complicated process of filing a claim against a rideshare company.

Common Causes of Uber/Lyft Accidents

Common causes of uber/lyft accidents may include:

• Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers often use navigation apps to find passengers and destinations, which can distract them from the road. Texting, adjusting music, or handling ride requests while driving can also lead to accidents.
• Fatigue: Many Uber and Lyft drivers work long hours to maximize their earnings. Driving for extended periods without adequate rest increases the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
• Speeding: Some drivers may speed or drive aggressively to meet passenger demands and maximize the number of rides. Speeding reduces response time and increases the severity of collisions.
• Inexperience: Some rideshare drivers may lack the experience or training to handle complex driving situations. Inexperienced drivers may struggle with city traffic, leading to accidents.
• Traffic Violations: Running red lights, failing to yield, and other traffic violations are common causes of accidents. Rideshare drivers may commit these violations in an attempt to save time or respond to passenger requests quickly.
• Weather Conditions: Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable, with snow, rain, and ice creating hazardous driving conditions. Rideshare drivers must exercise extra caution during adverse weather to prevent accidents.
• Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Rideshare vehicles must meet specific safety standards, but some drivers may neglect regular maintenance. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can lead to accidents.

Common Injuries in Uber/Lyft Accidents

Some common injuries sustained in rideshare accidents include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden jolts from rear-end collisions can cause whiplash, leading to neck pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. These injuries may require physical therapy and prolonged recovery periods.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, and other head injuries are serious consequences of rideshare accidents. These injuries can have long-lasting impacts on cognitive function, memory, and overall quality of life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s life. These injuries often demand extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: Fractures and broken bones are common in high-impact collisions. Victims may suffer broken ribs, arms, legs, and other bones, leading to significant pain and requiring surgical intervention.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma during an accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs. These injuries are often life-threatening and demand immediate medical attention.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can result from the force of a collision.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, metal, and other debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations. If not properly treated, these injuries may lead to infections and scarring.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims of rideshare accidents may experience psychological trauma such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Uber/Lyft Accident Settlements

After being in a crash with an Uber or Lyft vehicle, you are likely facing significant medical expenses and other costs. You may be unable to work as you recover from your injuries, and you may be left with a permanent disability that prevents you from ever returning to the same job. In addition to these economic damages, you may also be experiencing significant pain and suffering as a result of the crash. A personal injury lawsuit can help you get compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

The following are some of the factors that will be taken into account when calculating the amount of damages you are owed after a crash:

• The cost of your medical bills
• The amount of income you have lost as a result of the crash
• Whether you will be able to return to the same job
• The amount of pain and suffering you have experienced as a result of the crash

After a crash, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will likely reach out to you to offer a settlement. It is important to remember that the insurance company is not looking out for your best interests and is only interested in minimizing the amount of money it has to pay out. Before accepting any settlement offer, you should have an experienced personal injury attorney review it to make sure it is fair. Our firm will fight to get you the compensation you are owed, either through a settlement or at trial.