Conroe Rideshare Accident Lawyers Advocate for Injured Riders
Determined representation for victims of negligent rideshare drivers
Rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide flexible, low-cost, on-demand transportation in cities and towns throughout Texas. There are great benefits to these services, but with more vehicles on the ride cruising for fares, there is an increased possibility of traffic accidents. If you are injured in a collision involving a rideshare vehicle, you have the right to demand compensation for your losses from all parties responsible. At Hope & Causey, P.C. in Conroe, our auto accident attorneys have ample experience providing legal assistance to victims of rideshare accidents. We’re ready to provide the skilled and determined representation you need to hold negligent drivers fully accountable.
What is ridesharing?
Ridesharing started with commuters getting together to carpool. This popular practice took significant numbers of single-occupant vehicles off the road, easing traffic congestion and pollution. Then, in the early 2000s, some tech entrepreneurs got the idea for a flexible network that would allow people to hire rides on a more impromptu basis through a smartphone app. The largest rideshare service, Uber, was formed in 2009, and the second largest, Lyft, followed in 2012. Both companies originated in San Francisco, an area known for brutal traffic congestion.
Ridesharing services are categorized as transportation network companies. Therefore, they’re not regulated like taxis, so they can offer rides for significantly less. However, this legal loophole doesn’t reflect the reality of these services, which are every bit as much a ride-hailing operation as traditional taxis. Moreover, Uber, Lyft and other companies have been criticized for lax safety standards and for failing to vet drivers and/or to inspect vehicles adequately.
How insurance works in rideshare accidents
Since rideshare drivers are not technically employees of the rideshare service, the company is not automatically liable for accidents the drivers cause. However, companies voluntarily provide insurance coverage in varying amounts depending on the circumstances. There are three possible scenarios:
- Driver not on the app — When a driver has not turned the app on, the vehicle is insured under the driver’s personal policy.
- Driver on app, but not carrying a rider — While a driver is on the road hoping for a fare, the rideshare company offers some coverage for the vehicle. Uber, for example, provides $50,000 in bodily injury per person, up to $100,000 in bodily injury per accident and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
- Driver carrying a passenger — Once the driver has an assignment, the company provides its highest level of coverage. Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability protection.
Of course, just because insurance coverage is available, you shouldn’t rely on the insurance carrier to offer a fair settlement. You should retain a capable rideshare accident attorney to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Common types of rideshare injuries
Rideshare vehicles are ordinary cars that are just as vulnerable in accidents as any other vehicles. Therefore, passengers are just as likely to suffer harm. The most serious types of injuries can include:
- Concussions and TBI
- Bone fractures
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Spinal cord trauma
Our accident attorneys have a long record of success obtaining full compensation for a wide range of injuries. We understand how heavily you rely on a fair settlement or jury verdict, especially if you have sustained severe injuries. We work tirelessly to recover the maximum amount possible under the facts of your case.
Contact a determined Conroe personal injury lawyer about your rideshare accident
Hope & Causey, P.C. in Conroe represents victims of rideshare accidents throughout Montgomery County, San Antonio, Houston and the surrounding areas. For a free initial consultation, call 936-441-4673 or contact us online today.
