Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have taken America by storm in recent years, offering millions of travelers an alternative to traditional taxi services by making short-term rides available at the touch of a button. Unfortunately, not every person who drives for these services is as safe as they should be, and litigation against them for damages can be surprisingly complex.
Pursuing financial compensation after Uber or Lyft rideshare accidents in Elgin can be made easier with the professional help and guidance of an experienced car accident attorney. Once retained, your dedicated legal representative from the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. could explain the common trajectory of cases like yours. They will review your options for seeking civil recovery and work tenaciously to secure comprehensive compensation on your behalf.
What Makes Rideshare Collision Claims Unique?
Unlike traditional taxicab drivers, Uber and Lyft drivers are not employees of the companies that own the apps. Instead, they use a personal vehicle for business purposes as an independent contractor, with the rideshare app acting as an intermediary that connects drivers with riders and takes a cut of the fare.
Because of this, it is generally not possible to file suit directly against a rideshare company for an accident in Elgin involving one of their drivers. However, Illinois law requires Uber and Lyft to provide insurance coverage for riders who are injured in accidents that occur while their drivers are actively completing a ride through the relevant app.
Similar Uber and Lyft policies may provide coverage to rideshare drivers injured in wrecks that occur while they are “on the job” or while they are traveling to pick someone up. However, if someone who works through a rideshare company gets into a car crash while offline, they may only rely on their personal car insurance coverage for compensation.
Rideshare drivers and passengers alike have avenues to pursue compensation in the event of an accident while utilizing the Uber and Lyft apps. A dedicated attorney at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. in Elgin could walk you through your options for recovering damages.
Recovering Damages after an Uber or Lyft Accident
The types of losses that could be recovered in an Uber or Lyft accident claim in Elgin will vary depending on the circumstances. Some insurance policies only cover certain economic damages, like medical bills, car repair or replacement costs, and rental car expenses. When rideshare accidents cause more substantial injuries, it may be necessary to seek compensation for future medical expenses, lost wages, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering through civil litigation with the assistance of an Elgin lawyer at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd.
Time Limit on Rideshare Accident Claims
Strict deadlines apply to all methods of financial recovery following auto accidents. Various factors could shorten or extend the state’s filing deadline for rideshare accident claims involving Uber or Lyft. For this reason, support from a knowledgeable car crash lawyer could be crucial to effectively pursuing your rideshare collision case within the applicable timeline.
Ask an Elgin Attorney about Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Claims
As they become more common on Illinois’ public roadways, rideshare drivers become increasingly likely to get involved in auto accidents that cause serious physical, financial, and personal losses. After being involved in an incident like this, you may understandably have many questions about how state law governs claims against rideshare drivers and how to best maximize your financial recovery.
A qualified legal professional at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. could answer all your questions about Uber and Lyft rideshare accidents in Elgin during a confidential consultation. Schedule yours by calling our firm today.