Having to enter the legal landscape after suffering a rideshare accident in Waukegan, IL, can seem a daunting task. Whether you are an injured rideshare passenger who is facing unimaginable medical bills and a future filled with uncertainty, or you are a driver or a passenger of another vehicle involved in a rideshare collision, taking next steps may seem unclear.
The emergence of rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft has undeniably offered the residents of Waukegan, IL, a convenient way to travel. However, a rideshare vehicle comes at a risk of its own—the risk of accidents. These accidents can result in devastating consequences, from minor to severe injury, property damage, or, in the most unfortunate cases, wrongful death.
In this moment of devastation, having a trusted legal representative by your side makes all the difference. The Waukegan rideshare accident lawyers at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers understand the challenges that inevitably accompany such incidents.
Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to securing maximum compensation for clients involved in rideshare accidents in Waukegan. Our experienced legal team specializes in rideshare accident cases and has a proven track record of achieving substantial settlements and verdicts.
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We meticulously investigate each case to ensure all medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering are fully addressed. Our deep expertise in handling rideshare accident claims allows us to navigate these cases’ complexities effectively and fight vigorously for your rights.
Common Causes of Ridesharing Accidents
Before we discuss ridesharing injury accidents in further detail, it’s important to understand the common factors that can lead to them. Some primary causes include:
- Distracted driving
- Adverse weather conditions
- Traffic congestion
- Reckless driving behaviors
- Driver fatigue
- Intoxicated driving
- Traffic law violations
- Poor road maintenance
- Medical emergencies
A rideshare collision can result in an injury – it can be minor, moderate or severe. No matter how big or small the injury is, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the incident, as having a medical record will solidify your personal injury case.
Some common types of injuries include minor ones, such as bruises, strains, and minor cuts, as well as severe injuries, such as fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and even death.
In streets as busy as the ones in Waukegan IL, rideshare injury accidents are different from a conventional car accident due to certain unique circumstances. Where typical collisions often see the liability as falling squarely on the at-fault driver, in rideshare accidents , the situation is not as clear. These accidents involve various factors which can complicate the process of determining liability.
One such factor is whether the rideshare driver’s app was active at the time, as well as the employment status of drivers as independent contractors for Uber and Lyft. Assigning liability is a detail a Waukegan car accident lawyer from our team can competently investigate and clarify for you. Determining liability in the case of a rideshare accident lies in the complex web of responsibility that is shared between the parties involved. Examples include:
- The rideshare company: The company providing the rideshare service can be liable for accidents caused by their drivers, if performing a work assignment at the time of the collision.
- Rideshare drivers: The rideshare driver who was operating the vehicle at the time of the accident may be responsible due to negligence.
- Other motorists: In cases where other or multiple vehicles are involved, other motorists on the road may share liability for their contribution to the accident through driving in a reckless manner or violating traffic laws.
- Third-party service providers: Entities responsible for vehicle maintenance, insurance coverage, or other services related to the rideshare operation may also be liable for negligence.
Life after a rideshare accident can seem hard, overwhelming, and unpleasant. However, you don’t and shouldn’t have to face it alone. Our personal injury lawyers are available to help you recover compensation for your losses. These damages include:
- Economic Damages: These include medical expenses, lost wages, and damage to property. They are also classified as tangible financial losses.
- Non-Economic Damages: These are intangible financial losses, which makes them more difficult to quantify; however, they are just as important as tangible ones. They include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Trust in our attorneys’ experience and commitment to securing successful outcomes for our clients, and we will fiercely pursue the compensation you deserve, so you can focus your efforts on recovering from your injuries.
Your Contribution to the Accident
In Illinois, comparative negligence is a concept applied to rideshare collisions, meaning victims are able to recover damages even if they were partially to blame for causing the collision. However, how much you receive could be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
That is why it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who can review your accident’s circumstances, and ensure you achieve fair and just compensation.
When you have been the victim of a rideshare crash, what you do next is very important in terms of safeguarding your rights. Here are the steps you should take:
Prioritize your health
Seek medical help as soon as possible, regardless of how severely you have been injured.
Document the scene
Take photographs of the scene, including the damage to vehicles and the road conditions. Additionally, obtaining witness testimonies and gathering any other evidence, such as police reports or medical records, is of vital importance.
Avoid discussions with insurance adjusters
Avoid speaking to any insurance company before consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney in order to avoid unsatisfactory settlement offers.
Consult with a qualified attorney
One of our Waukegan rideshare accident lawyers is available to help you. Reach out to us and we will help you navigate the claims process.
The Importance of Hiring a Waukegan Ridesharing Accident Lawyer
When navigating the complex nature of a personal injury case, especially if you do it alone, you will face challenges, such as communication with insurance companies and their aggressive tactics.
Our team of dedicated rideshare accident lawyers has the expertise and resources necessary to ‘level the playing field’ and protect your rights. The ways we help you are numerous, from thoroughly investigating and negotiating with insurance providers, to representing you in court.
Whatever the circumstances, our rideshare accident lawyers are committed to achieving the most favorable outcome in your personal injury case. We empathize with the challenges surrounding insurance claims from a rideshare company, such as the involvement of multiple parties and low offers. That is why we are here to help you. Don’t delay in reaching out to us and receiving our comprehensive support.
In Waukegan IL, there is a statute of limitations which is a legally prescribed timeframe within which you must file your personal injury lawsuit. This is typically two years from the date of the crash, and you must strictly adhere to the deadline.
Failing to do so will likely result in forfeiting your rights to seek compensation. Thus, time is of the essence; and so is seeking the assistance of a qualified Waukegan rideshare accident attorney who can competently evaluate your case and handle it on your behalf.
We know very well that victims of rideshare collisions can be concerned about the financial aspect of pursuing legal action. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront costs for you to pay, and we are only paid if we obtain compensation for you. Our experienced Waukegan personal injury attorneys are here to handle the legal work, while you focus on rebuilding your life.
If you have been injured in a ridesharing accident in Waukegan, IL, don’t delay reaching out to us at Rosenfield Injury Lawyers. We are a team of compassionate and experienced lawyers who are available to help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights, securing you the compensation needed.
Contact us today to receive a free consultation with a Waukegan ridesharing accident attorney, and together, let’s take the first step toward justice.