A Team That Can Help You After A Grand Rapids Rideshare Accident
When you hire a rideshare, you expect that you can trust your driver to transport you safely. For far too many people, calling a rideshare can end in a serious accident and injury. No one should have to cope with the stress of a personal injury, physical recovery and medical bills after a rideshare accident.
At Mabbitt Bhimani Law in Grand Rapids, we handle the legal matters so that you don’t have to. Our passion lies in helping personal injury survivors recover maximum compensation for their damages so they can move forward with life. We are attorneys Sameer Bhimani and Anne Mabbitt, and we bring decades of combined experience to each case. You can rely on our knowledge as well as our commitment to treating you with dignity and care.
Do I Have A Rideshare Accident Injury Case?
If you are a rideshare driver for Uber or Lyft and you had a car accident while working, the first thing to consider is whether you are at fault for a percentage of the accident. Michigan has a comparative negligence law that awards damages to drivers who are less than 50% at fault. This means that if you are responsible for less than 50%, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
If you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle that got in an accident, you may be able to sue the negligent driver or drivers. The insurance coverage for the rideshare driver should include no-fault coverage for injuries. However, it may be difficult to recover those damages from Uber/Lyft. We have the experience you need in these cases and will fight the rideshare company for the compensation you need.
What Are The Causes Of Rideshare Accidents?
Car accidents are so common that it is likely that every American will be in two of them during their life. Uber and Lyft accidents happen for many of the same reasons as other vehicles, including:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Vehicle defects
- Rideshare driver negligence
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
Distracted driving accidents are fairly common in rideshare and Uber/Lyft vehicles because the drivers look at their GPS frequently. They may also receive calls on their cellphone during the trip. Unruly passengers can be another distraction.
The Steps To Take After A Rideshare Or Uber/Lyft Accident
As with any car accident, your health is the most important thing. If you need medical attention, call 911. Always see a doctor as soon as you can, even if you do not think that you have any injuries. If you are able, take photos of the scene and get the name of the other driver. Write down their insurance information and contact information. Speak with the police, but do not admit fault. You do not want to inadvertently say something that the insurance company can use against you later.
Who Is Liable In A Michigan Uber Or Lyft Accident?
Liability depends on the circumstances of the accident. One of the drivers involved is usually responsible for car accidents, whether the rideshare driver or another motorist. Other causes can, however, include faulty vehicles, poor road design or passengers who interfere with the driver. We will investigate the accident and determine who is at fault.
What Are My Passenger Rights In Uber/Lyft Accidents?
You have rights as a passenger injured in a rideshare accident with Uber/Lyft. These may include:
- A right to retain a lawyer
- A right to a safe vehicle and safe driver
- A right to seek damages for your injuries or the wrongful death of a family member
You can recover damages ranging from medical bills and lost wages to emotional distress, and physical pain and suffering. We know how to maximize your compensation and will work hard to get it for you.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover For A Rideshare Accident?
Each accident settlement or jury award depends on the unique circumstances of the accident and the injuries or deaths. Minor injuries will typically not result in large settlements or awards. Catastrophic or fatal injuries typically result in larger amounts of compensation. Injuries such as broken or crushed bones, organ damage, amputation, burns, spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries are much more severe and require considerable compensation to cover the victim’s medical bills and related expenses. A wrongful death will also include compensation for funeral and burial costs, emotional distress of the family and the income the deceased would have earned if they were a wage-earner.
We Are Here To Help You Recover
We promise to provide representation that is compassionate, timely and knowledgeable. Instead of taking the first settlement offer, we will pursue the maximum amount you are entitled to receive. If we need to take your case to trial, we will be prepared and will fight aggressively for your rights and interests. With backgrounds as insurance defense lawyers, we know how to counter the tactics that insurance company attorneys use to undervalue or deny valid claims.
We take thorough preparation and a strong work ethic seriously. If we take your case, you will be our priority. Additionally, we will get to know you and your family so we can accurately determine the value of your case. This is an important step because you need adequate compensation to cover past, current and future losses from the ridesharing crash.
Consult A Caring Rideshare Accident Lawyer – Free Consultations
In the challenging time after a serious personal injury, we at Mabbitt Bhimani Law want to help you with your claim. Located in Grand Rapids, we serve clients from the Kent County area. Call us at 616-326-1111 or send us an email today. Your consultation is free, and there is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.