Rideshare accidents can leave victims with serious injuries, financial strain, and unanswered questions about who is responsible.
Whether you were a passenger in an Uber who sustained a fractured arm after the driver ran a red light or a cyclist who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a distracted Lyft driver, you have the right to be made whole. It is not unusual for situations to cause astronomical medical bills, catastrophic injuries, and ongoing physical, financial, and psychological trauma.
Fortunately, your community-driven Fort Worth rideshare accident lawyer with The Texas Law Dog is here to help. “We don’t just bark, We bite.” We are dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve, so contact our office to schedule your 100% free consultation with a Fort Worth car accident lawyer from our firm as soon as today.
Determining Liability in Rideshare Accidents
Establishing liability in rideshare accidents can be complex, as it often involves multiple parties and varying degrees of fault. All drivers are required to operate their vehicles with reasonable care to avoid accidents. Identifying the responsible party is critical if we are going to build the strongest claim possible and bring the at-fault party to justice.
Rideshare Driver Responsibility
Rideshare drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws. Negligent behaviors, such as speeding, driving under the influence, or using a cell phone while driving, can lead to devastating accidents. Proving the driver’s negligence often requires evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and driving records.
Drivers are also expected to meet rideshare company requirements, such as passing background checks and maintaining their vehicles. Failing to adhere to these standards may further demonstrate negligence and support a victim’s claim. Your knowledgeable Fort Worth personal injury lawyer can help gather evidence and establish the driver’s fault.
Rideshare Company Liability
Companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for accidents involving their drivers, but the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status. If the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, limited coverage may apply. Once the driver accepts a ride or is actively transporting a passenger, higher coverage limits, such as $1 million in liability insurance, are typically available, according to Uber’s insurance details.
Rideshare companies may also be held liable if they fail to enforce safety protocols, such as properly vetting drivers or maintaining their vehicles. These cases often involve complex negotiations with the company’s insurance providers. Our team can help you understand these nuances and hold rideshare companies accountable to their financial obligations.
Third-Party Involvement
Liability may extend to other motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists whose actions contributed to the accident. For example, a distracted driver who rear-ends a rideshare vehicle may share responsibility for the injuries caused. Establishing third-party liability often requires evidence such as traffic camera footage or accident reconstruction reports.
Pursuing claims against multiple parties can complicate the recovery process but is often necessary to secure full compensation. Each party’s degree of fault must be carefully evaluated and supported by solid evidence. We can manage these complexities on your behalf and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
For a free legal consultation, call (817) 775-5364
Grounds for a Rideshare Accident Claim
To pursue a rideshare accident claim, we must be able to establish that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence, which typically includes proving that the rideshare driver, company, or a third party failed to exercise reasonable care. Identifying the signs of a valid claim is essential to determining liability and pursuing compensation with the help of a Fort Worth rideshare accident attorney with The Texas Law Dog. Some of the top signs that you may have grounds for a legal claim include:
- Physical injuries requiring medical treatment, such as broken bones or head trauma
- Financial losses, including medical expenses and lost wages
- A police report documenting the rideshare driver’s negligence
- Witness statements corroborating your account of the accident
- Evidence of distracted driving, such as cell phone usage or app activity logs
- Vehicle damage consistent with the accident’s details
Establishing fault in civil claims requires victims to meet the burden of proof by providing clear and convincing evidence. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001, we must demonstrate that negligence directly caused your injuries. Key evidence, such as medical records, police reports, and video footage, could play a vital role in building a compelling case and bringing the liable party to justice.
Fort Worth Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
Rideshare Accident Victims Are Entitled to Full Compensation
Rideshare accident victims in Fort Worth may recover compensation for a wide range of losses, including economic and non-economic damages. Compensation can address immediate medical expenses, long-term care needs, and the emotional toll of the accident. Here is more about the types of damages that may be available to you with help from your dedicated Fort Worth rideshare accident attorney:
General Damages
General damages compensate victims for non-economic losses that cannot be measured in dollars and reflect the emotional and psychological impact of the accident, such as pain and suffering. Victims often rely on these damages to rebuild their quality of life. Some examples of general damages could include:
- Pain and suffering caused by physical injuries
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to permanent disabilities
Special Damages
Special damages cover economic losses directly related to the accident. These damages are based on actual expenses and financial records and aim to restore victims to their pre-accident financial position. Examples of special damages that may be recovered in your rideshare accident claim include:
- Medical expenses, including surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages due to time missed from work
- Loss of future earning capacity for victims unable to return to their previous jobs
- Property damage, such as vehicle repairs or replacement
- Out-of-pocket costs for medical travel or assistive devices
Exemplary Damages
Exemplary damages, also known as punitive damages, are awarded to punish gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 41.003, these damages require clear and convincing evidence of egregious behavior. Exemplary damages are designed to deter similar misconduct and promote accountability.
For example, a rideshare company may face exemplary damages if it knowingly allowed a dangerous driver to operate on its platform. These damages are awarded in addition to compensatory damages, reflecting the court’s intent to punish reckless actions. Exemplary damages serve as a powerful deterrent against negligence and misconduct in the rideshare industry.
Click to contact our Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyers today
Demand Justice With Help From a Reputable Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Fort Worth Today
Rideshare accidents can leave victims struggling with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and overwhelming financial burdens. Having an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Fort Worth with The Texas Law Dog by your side can help relieve you from the weight of the world on your shoulders. Our team will do everything possible to ensure you get the most out of your claim.
Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another motorist injured in a rideshare-related accident, you deserve justice and full compensation. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. When you have access to the financial support you need to rebuild your life, you will be proud of yourself for having the courage to take action against those responsible.
Call (817) 775-5364 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
