A car accident can change your life in an instant. It only takes one negligent driver, and suddenly you’re seriously injured, you can’t work, and you can’t pay your bills. Your family may be suffering, your career could be derailed, and it can be hard to know where to turn for help.
The aftermath of a car accident is a confusing time, but it’s even worse if the other driver worked for a rideshare company like Uber or Lyft. Our rideshare accident lawyers in St. Petersburg can help you understand who is liable for your damages and pursue maximum compensation.
Our team at Distasio Law Firm has over three decades of combined legal experience standing up for the rights of injured accident victims in Florida. Call for your free consultation and learn more about how our personal injury lawyers in St. Petersburg can help with your case.
Liability in a Rideshare Accident
Rideshare drivers are not company employees. They are independent contractors who are largely in control of their own actions. Because of this, the concept of vicarious liability does not apply, and companies like Uber and Lyft are only liable in very specific situations.
When the Rideshare Company Is Liable
Liability typically hinges on whether or not the driver was logged into their rideshare app. If they were logged in and actively transporting a passenger, en route to pick up a passenger, or waiting for an assignment, the rideshare company is usually liable for their actions.
The company may also be liable if it was negligent in other areas, such as failing to screen new drivers or ignoring customer complaints about dangerous drivers.
When the Driver Is Liable
If the driver is not logged into their app, your accident is like any other car accident. Our rideshare accident attorneys will work to show that their negligence led to your accident. Florida is a no-fault state for auto accidents, so your insurance policy may be involved, as well.
Additional Liable Parties
As with any car crash, there could be additional liable parties. Another driver or pedestrian could have played a part in the accident, a mechanic could have allowed a dangerous car on the road, or a construction company might have created a dangerous driving situation.
For a free legal consultation with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer serving St. Petersburg, call (813) 259 0022
Why You Need an Attorney for a Rideshare Accident
It’s always a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer whenever you are hurt in an accident. Insurance companies may seem like they are on your side, but they often look for ways to minimize your payout or try to say you were at fault for the accident.
Our rideshare accident attorneys in St. Petersburg will stand up to insurers and make sure you are treated fairly.
While every case is unique, some of the things our team does to help with your case include:
Investigating Your Accident
We’ll review available evidence to understand how the crash happened, the status of the rideshare driver, and who was involved. The goal is to pursue all liable parties that played a role in your accident.
Determining Your Compensation
We evaluate your economic damages and fully account for the hardships you have experienced. This often includes:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical costs
- Lost wages
- Out-of-pocket-costs
- Property damage
In some cases, we can recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.
Handing Your Claim
We will interact with the rideshare company and their insurer, or the driver’s insurance company, on your behalf. We can file paperwork and handle the complicated legal issues, so you avoid common mistakes.
Negotiating for Your Settlement
We’ll work to recover a fair settlement that covers your losses. However, if the insurance company isn’t willing to do the right thing, we are prepared to fight for your award in court.
St. Petersburg Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me (813) 259 0022
Deadlines for Filing a Legal Claim
According to Florida Statute § 95.11, you usually have two years from the date of the crash to file a claim for your rideshare accident. Various factors can affect this statute of limitations, lengthening or shortening your timeframe.
Missing your deadline can mean losing your ability to pursue legal recourse after your crash. Contact our St. Petersburg rideshare accident lawyers to make sure you understand the time limits that apply to your case and don’t miss them.
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Get Help From Our Rideshare Accident Attorneys in St. Petersburg
Rideshare accidents can get complicated. On top of the hardships that typically accompany a car crash, such as injuries and financial strain, you’ll need to figure out who is responsible for your damages. That could mean the driver, the rideshare company, or both.
Even after you identify the correct party, their insurance company may take steps to delay or deny your claim. Our rideshare accident attorneys in St. Petersburg will investigate your crash, identify avenues for recovering damages, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Since 2006, Distasio Law Firm has gone the extra mile to serve Florida residents who were injured in accidents through no fault of their own. If you are searching for a “rideshare accident lawyer near me,” call our team today for your free, no-obligation consultation.
Call or text (813) 259 0022 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form