At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we understand that being involved in a rideshare accident can be overwhelming. It is natural to feel confused, worried, and unsure of what steps to take next. As a firm dedicated to helping those who have experienced personal injuries, we are here to support you through this challenging time. If you need guidance and representation, our firm is ready to help you pursue a positive outcome for your case.
What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have become a common part of daily life in Pennsylvania. While these services offer convenience, they also bring unique challenges when accidents occur. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare incidents involve multiple parties, including the driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers or passengers. Sorting through the legal responsibilities of each party can be complex.
In Pennsylvania, the laws surrounding rideshare accidents are still evolving. Rideshare companies typically classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, which can affect how liability is determined. Additionally, these companies carry insurance policies that vary depending on whether the driver was actively transporting passengers, on their way to pick up a ride, or simply logged into the app. These factors make it critical to have clear guidance if you have been involved in a rideshare accident.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident
Determining who is responsible for your injuries depends on the circumstances of the accident. In some cases, the rideshare driver may be at fault if they acted negligently while operating their vehicle. Negligence can include behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, or failing to follow traffic laws.
In other situations, another driver on the road may have caused the accident. If this is the case, their insurance company will typically be responsible for covering damages. However, when a rideshare driver is involved, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may also come into play.
Rideshare companies are required to provide insurance coverage in Pennsylvania, but the level of coverage depends on the status of the rideshare trip. For example, if a rideshare driver was actively transporting a passenger at the time of the accident, the company’s insurance policy may provide substantial coverage for injuries and damages. On the other hand, if the driver was logged into the app but had not yet accepted a ride request, the available coverage may be more limited. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when filing a claim.
The Role of Insurance in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare companies often promote the fact that they carry significant insurance policies to protect passengers. While this may sound reassuring, it is not always straightforward to access this coverage. Insurance companies, whether they represent the rideshare company, the rideshare driver, or another involved party, are often focused on minimizing payouts.
This is where many people find the process to be frustrating and difficult. After an accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters who ask for statements or offer quick settlements. These initial offers are often much lower than what you may actually deserve. It is important to have someone on your side who can evaluate the true value of your claim and push back against unfair tactics.
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I highly Recommend Gibson & Perkins. I have used their services for approximately 6 years now and been through a few cases together with very positive outcomes. Personally, I have used Paul Fellman and Walter Timby on those occasions. Both, as a team & separately these Attorneys were wonderful to work with and easily accessible to reach if I had any questions. Professionalism is the word that comes to mind to describe the firm, as a whole. Always completely prepared for any surprises that may pop up during a trial. They were well versed on all pertinent info pertaining to each case. As I client, I always felt I was an integral part of the team, not an after-thought, that had to be brought up to speed a half hour before the trial started. I could not recommend this firm and Mr. Fellman and Mr. Timby any higher.
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Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
The injuries sustained in a rideshare accident can vary widely depending on the severity of the collision. Some of the most common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Even less obvious injuries, such as soft tissue damage or internal injuries, can have long-term consequences on your health and well-being.
If you have been hurt in a rideshare accident, seeking immediate medical attention is critical. Some injuries may not appear right away, and delays in treatment can not only affect your health but may also impact your ability to pursue compensation. Keeping detailed medical records can be a key part of building a strong case.
How Pennsylvania Laws Affect Rideshare Cases
Pennsylvania is a no-fault insurance state, which means that your own insurance policy will typically cover certain expenses after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. This includes medical bills and lost wages up to the limits of your personal injury protection coverage.
However, if your injuries are severe and your expenses exceed the limits of your coverage, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party. This is known as stepping outside the no-fault system. In rideshare accidents, this can mean pursuing compensation from the rideshare driver, another negligent driver, or even the rideshare company itself.
Pennsylvania also follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you will not be able to recover damages.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
In the aftermath of a rideshare accident, it is normal to feel shaken and unsure of what to do. Taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your case. First, make sure to call the police and report the accident. A police report can provide valuable documentation of the incident.
Next, gather as much information as possible at the scene. This includes the names and contact information of all parties involved, insurance information, and details about the rideshare trip, such as whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger. If possible, take photos of the vehicles, the scene of the accident, and any visible injuries.
Avoid discussing fault with other parties or providing recorded statements to insurance adjusters without first speaking with an attorney. Anything you say could be used against you later.
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How Legal Representation Can Help
Navigating the legal process after a rideshare accident can be intimidating. The laws and insurance policies involved are complicated, and without guidance, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Having a dedicated legal team on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we understand the challenges you are facing and are here to provide clear and compassionate support. We will work with you to investigate the details of your accident, identify all potentially liable parties, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our goal is to help you secure the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with confidence.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we are here to help you understand your rights and options. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and guide you toward a successful resolution.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, reach out to us today. We are committed to standing by your side and advocating for your best interests. Together, we can work toward the compensation you deserve for your personal injury case.