Why You Need an Experienced Los Angeles Lawyer for Rideshare Compensation
Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft operate with an app that connects you with a driver, who can take you to work, school or wherever else you need to go. Once a request is sent, all you have to do is wait for the closest available driver to arrive and pick you up. So what happens if you are in a rideshare vehicle that is involved in an accident and you are injured in the collision? When that happens, you should have a good Los Angeles car accident lawyer on your side. Keep reading to find out why.
Rideshare Liability
The dilemma when an accident happens during an Uber or Lyft ride is whether the rideshare company is liable or if the driver’s personal car insurance should be held liable. As the popularity of using rideshare services continues to grow, the rules have changed so that the rideshare company takes some responsibility. Because of the many gray areas and legal complications that surround the matter of liability, having a lawyer can help you navigate the system and get the compensation you deserve as a result of the accident.
Rideshare Policies
While the specific policies may differ a bit among the rideshare companies, Uber and Lyft included, it’s generally accepted that the drivers are independent contractors. That means they are not considered employees of the rideshare company and therefore, the company can deny liability in injury accident claims. At the same time, because rideshare services are generally done with an app, the company can claim to be a technology entity, rather than a transportation provider. If you are injured in an accident with a rideshare driver, you are entitled to compensation, but you will likely have difficulty getting it on your own, which is why having a lawyer is such a good idea in these instances.
Legal Issues
On one side, the rideshare company is likely to deny any responsibility for your injury claim, while the driver’s personal insurance may claim that because the ride was done in a business or commercial setting, they are not liable either. You can probably guess that fighting for compensation in an Uber or Lyft accident isn’t going to be easy. It’s likely something you won’t be successful attempting to resolve on your own.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
Lawyers are well versed in the ins and outs of the law here in Los Angeles, regarding rideshare accidents. For that reason, finding legal assistance is vital. An attorney can help you navigate the many policies in place by rideshare companies and can help you work with the insurance companies involved as you seek compensation for your injuries. A lawyer knows how to work the system in a legal way and can give you advice as you seek a resolution.
Have you been injured in a rideshare accident and aren’t sure what to do. Start by calling Jance M. Weberman, a professional law corporation today. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff will get started on your case, helping you get the compensation you deserve in the aftermath of the collision. Don’t wait. Call a Los Angeles lawyer today.