Uber and Lyft Accidents During the Holidays: What to Know

 Posted on December 19, 2024 in Personal Injury

Rideshare companies provide convenient transportation to Springfield residents and visitors throughout the year. During the winter holiday season, the number of daily riders often increases due to family gatherings, office parties, and get-togethers with friends. Unfortunately, the risk of being involved in a rideshare accident also increases.

Who is liable for the injuries you sustained in a collision with a rideshare vehicle? Are these cases complicated? An effective Champaign, IL personal injury lawyer is your best chance for a successful resolution to your accident claim.

Why Are Rideshare Accidents More Likely During the Winter Holiday Season?

A combination of factors increases the risks of rideshare accidents during the winter season, such as:

• Shorter days, meaning more nighttime trips

• More drunk drivers on the roads, particularly after holiday parties and on New Year’s Eve

• Inclement weather causing poor driving conditions

• A higher demand for rides can make rideshare drivers speed to accept more trips

• Increased driver distractions, such as using the Uber driver app while driving, thinking about last-minute shopping, and looking at holiday decorations and light displays

• More out-of-town travelers without private transportation options

Any motor vehicle collision can produce severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage, blunt force trauma, brain injuries, and fractures. Filing an insurance claim could secure compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other eligible damages. However, rideshare accidents are more complex than many other personal injury claims, and getting as much compensation as you deserve can be challenging.

Why Are Rideshare Accidents Complicated?

Rideshare drivers are private contractors, not Uber or Lyft employees. Although rideshare companies provide insurance for passengers, drivers are still required to carry personal auto insurance policies. The driver’s status at the time of the collision affects which insurance company is liable for other motorists. The driver statuses are:

• Not logged into the rideshare app

• Waiting for a ride request

• Traveling to pick up a passenger

• Traveling with a passenger in the vehicle

Drivers who do not inform their personal insurance carrier they are using their vehicle for ridesharing could find themselves denied coverage if they are involved in an accident. Unfortunately, that denial will likely also affect your claim.

Rideshare companies may try to deny your claim for various reasons, leaving you wondering how to pay for your medical treatment. That is when the services of a competent lawyer become vital for ensuring that you are awarded what you are entitled to.

What Will a Lawyer Do for Me After a Rideshare Accident?

Our job is to help you collect the highest available amount of compensation. In our attempt to reach that goal, we will:

• Investigate your accident

• Determine fault and which insurance company is liable for paying your claim

• Aggressively negotiate with insurers

If we need to take your case to court, we have extensive experience winning trials. Let us handle the complications so you can focus on your recovery.

Discuss Your Case With a Determined Bloomington, IL Rideshare Accident Lawyer

At Kanoski Bresney, we hope you have a safe and happy holiday season. However, if you are injured in a rideshare accident, contact us online or call 888-826-8682 to speak with one of our skilled Peoria, IL personal injury attorneys. Your initial consultation is our gift to you.