Denver Rideshare Accident Lawyer Near Me
With the advent of the digital era, we’ve witnessed a revolution in transportation, marking the rise of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.
Yet, as these services flourish in the bustling city of Denver, a rising tide of rideshare-related accidents has become a grim part of the narrative.
An experienced attorney can aid in disentangling these threads, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
What to do if you’re hurt in a rideshare accident in Denver, CO
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident,your immediate actions could significantly impact the outcome of any subsequent legal or insurance-related proceedings. First and foremost, ensure the safety of everyone involved. Dial 911 for serious injuries or if the accident scene is dangerous. Seek immediate medical attention, even if the injuries initially seem minor. Medical records can also be substantial evidence if you pursue a legal claim.
In the aftermath of the accident, gathering as much information as possible is essential. This can include:
- The rideshare driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information.
- The vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.
- Names and contact information of any eyewitnesses.
- Pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damages and any visible injuries.
- A screenshot of your ride details on the rideshare app.
Inform your rideshare company about the accident as soon as possible. Uber and Lyft, for instance, have options within their apps to report accidents. They also have insurance policies in place to cover passengers. However, the intricacies of these policies and how they apply can be confusing. That’s where legal help becomes indispensable.
Engaging a lawyer experienced in rideshare accidents can significantly increase your case’s chances of a positive outcome. These professionals understand the legalities that apply to rideshare companies and their insurance providers. They can help navigate the maze of filing claims, dealing with insurance companies, or even litigating the case if necessary.
Types of compensation you may be able to recover from a rideshare accident
There are several types of compensation that victims of rideshare accidents may be eligible to recover. First, medical expenses cover costs associated with the accident’s immediate aftermath, such as ambulance fees, hospital stays, surgeries, and long-term care like physical therapy and ongoing medical treatments. It also includes compensation for future medical expenses if your injuries require prolonged treatment.
Next, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently. This includes both past and future income lost due to the accident. If you’ve sustained severe injuries that inhibit your capacity to work as you did before the accident, you may also be compensated for a diminished earning capacity.
Lastly, non-economic damages, also known as pain and suffering, cover the intangible impacts of an accident. This can include physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and even the impact on relationships with loved ones. Calculating these damages is less straightforward but equally important in ensuring comprehensive compensation for the victim.
Why trust Zaner Harden Law, LLP with your accident case
With an impressive track record in handling rideshare accident cases, Zaner Harden Law, LLP has established itself as a trusted legal ally for Denver residents. The firm’s dedicated attorneys bring their extensive knowledge of the rideshare industry’s unique legal landscape, fighting tirelessly to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. Their understanding of the strategies employed by rideshare companies and insurance providers allows them to navigate the complexities of such cases.
Zaner Harden Law, LLP believes in a personalized approach, treating each case with the individual attention it deserves. We understand the profound impact an accident can have on your life and are committed to alleviating that burden by handling all the legalities while you focus on recovery. The firm’s client-focused philosophy has resulted in many satisfied clients who have benefited from our comprehensive legal services.
The firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case. This policy underscores our confidence in successfully representing clients and our commitment to seeking justice. With Zaner Harden Law, LLP, you have a seasoned legal team ready to turn your rideshare accident ordeal into a victory for your rights.
Make sure you file a claim on time
When involved in a rideshare accident, filing a claim as soon as possible is crucial. The statute of limitations, a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated, often limits the time window for filing such claims. In Colorado, for instance, this period is typically two years for personal injury cases, but it can vary depending on specific circumstances.
It’s essential to start the legal process promptly to adhere to these time limitations and ensure the preservation of valuable evidence. The more time passes, the more challenging it can become to gather necessary information, like eyewitness accounts, and the harder it may be to prove your case. An experienced rideshare accident attorney can help you navigate these deadlines and ensure your claim is filed on time, protecting your rights to compensation.
Rideshare insurance protection
One of the key differences between rideshare drivers and more traditional drivers, like those who operate taxis, was that rideshare drivers were not originally required to carry commercial insurance.
“Transportation Network Company”
In fact, it wasn’t until 2014 that Colorado passed Senate Bill 14-125: “Concerning the Regulation of Transportation Network Companies…” This bill established specific requirements for drivers in the rideshare space and was a step towards regulating insurance for them.
Today, you can generally count on a rideshare driver carrying at least $400,000.00 of insurance coverage. However, just because the insurance exists, it doesn’t mean it will be available. Insurance companies may argue that the insurance doesn’t apply and that your injuries do not justify an award.
Safety requirements for rideshare drivers
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have set stringent safety requirements for their drivers to ensure the well-being of passengers and other road users.
These requirements include a minimum age limit, typically 21 years, and a certain level of driving experience. All prospective drivers must undergo a comprehensive background check, scrutinizing their driving records for issues such as DUIs, reckless driving incidents, and any history of criminal offenses.
The condition of the driver’s vehicle also comes under scrutiny. Most rideshare companies require cars to meet specific safety standards and age requirements. Mandatory vehicle inspections ensure safety features like brakes, tires, lights, and seat belts are in working condition and the overall vehicle maintenance is up to par.
In addition, most rideshare companies enforce a zero-tolerance policy towards drug and alcohol use while driving. Drivers found violating this policy face immediate disqualification.
To promote safer driving habits, certain companies have also integrated features into their apps to monitor driving behaviors, like speeding and harsh braking, and provide feedback to their drivers. Ensuring these safety requirements are upheld is crucial in mitigating the risk of rideshare accidents.
Common causes of rideshare accidents
Much like any other traffic incidents, rideshare accidents can be attributed to various causes. Understanding these common reasons is critical to ensuring the prevention of such incidents. Here are some of the prevalent causes.
Distracted driving
This includes any activity that diverts attention from driving, such as talking or texting on your phone, eating, talking to passengers, or fiddling with the stereo or navigation system.
Fatigue
Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive late at night, increasing the risk of accidents due to drowsiness and decreased reaction times.
Speeding and reckless driving
This is one of the leading causes of car accidents, including rideshare incidents. The pressure to pick up passengers quickly or complete as many rides as possible can lead drivers to exceed speed limits or make unsafe maneuvers.
Impaired driving
Although rideshare companies have strict policies against it, cases of drivers operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol still occur and can lead to severe accidents.
Inadequate vehicle maintenance
Rideshare vehicles undergo frequent use, making regular maintenance crucial. Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or other maintenance issues can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Unfamiliarity with roads
Rideshare drivers often find themselves in unfamiliar areas, and their reliance on GPS navigation can sometimes lead to dangerous situations, like making sudden stops or turns.
Negligence of other drivers
Even if a rideshare driver is cautious and responsible, they share the road with other drivers who may not be. The negligence or reckless behavior of other drivers can also cause rideshare accidents.
Understanding these common causes can guide drivers and passengers toward safer rideshare experiences, reducing accidents’ likelihood and associated consequences.
Who is liable in a rideshare accident?
Even though multiple parties can be considered responsible for damages in the state of Colorado, it is required that rideshare companies provide primary insurance coverage for when a driver is actually signed on to their rideshare app, looking for work.
Uber and Lyft drivers are required to have motor vehicle insurance on their vehicles at all times as noted above.
If an accident occurs, it’s extremely important for the injured party to look for a lawyer that can help them to understand the law, any potential for compensation, and how insurance factors into the overall process.
There are 3 levels of liability limits to be aware of in the state of Colorado:
- Drivers that are not logged in and are driving outside of “work”
- Drivers with passengers, or that are on their way to pick them up
- Drivers that are waiting on a ride request while signed into the app.
If you are in an Uber or a Lyft and your driver causes a crash that injures you, then the rideshare company’s liability insurance will apply and you will have a claim directly against the insurance company.
However, if another driver causes the crash while you are in an Uber or a Lyft, then Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage should kick in. Again, the insurance company will attempt to deny you compensation – this is what insurance companies do. You will need a fighter by your side.
Rideshare collisions cause all kinds of injuries
Rideshare collisions, depending on their severity, can lead to a broad spectrum of injuries. At the milder end of this spectrum, passengers may experience whiplash, a common injury in rear-end collisions where the forceful jerk causes damage to the soft tissues in the neck and upper back. Concussions, sprains, cuts, and bruises are also common, especially if passengers are not wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident.
In more intense collisions, passengers might endure injuries such as fractures, spinal cord damage, or brain injuries. There is always the possibility that these injuries can lead to long-lasting or even irreversible disabilities, necessitating comprehensive medical attention and prolonged rehabilitation.
Latent and long-term injuries
Acknowledging that not all injuries manifest symptoms immediately after the accident is essential. Conditions like internal bleeding or delayed-onset PTSD can surface days or weeks after the accident, highlighting the importance of medical evaluation following any accident.
Mental and emotional injuries
Furthermore, it’s not just physical injuries that victims of rideshare accidents may experience. The psychological impact can be equally debilitating. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common in individuals who’ve been involved in car accidents.
These mental health conditions can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, underscoring the importance of factoring these damages when pursuing a compensation claim.
How our Denver rideshare accident lawyer can help
A Denver rideshare accident lawyer brings a deep understanding of the local laws and the complex legal landscape surrounding rideshare companies. They can help navigate the often confusing claims process with insurance companies, which often involves distinct policies depending on whether the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger, carrying a passenger, or in-between rides. We can analyze your case from multiple angles and identify the best path to secure full compensation on your behalf.
Craft a seamless case
An experienced Denver personal injury lawyer can also build a compelling case by gathering all necessary evidence, such as the accident report, witness testimonies, and medical records. They can work with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and other specialists to present a robust and comprehensive claim.
Should the insurance company try to reject your claim or propose an insufficient settlement, your attorney stands ready to argue forcefully in your favor, ensuring your interests are protected.
Take the matter to court
Your attorney can escalate the matter to court when settlement negotiations don’t yield satisfactory results. They will take charge of all the intricate legal procedures involved, present a compelling case before the judge or jury, and argue relentlessly for your right to fair compensation.
The assurance of having a committed legal expert championing your rights can be priceless, freeing you to concentrate on your recovery. Meanwhile, your attorney is responsible for navigating the legal challenge on your behalf.
Cost of hiring a rideshare accident lawyer in Denver
Many victims of rideshare accidents hesitate to seek legal help due to concerns about the cost of hiring an attorney. However, most rideshare accident attorneys in Denver operate on a contingency fee basis in many areas of personal injury law.
Zaner Harden Law, LLP is no different – our contingency fee means you pay no upfront fees; we only get paid if and when they win your case. Payment comes as a percentage of the settlement or court-awarded compensation. This arrangement aligns your and our interests, ensuring we are both invested in achieving the best possible outcome.
Our Denver rideshare accident lawyers are ready to help
Engaging an experienced rideshare accident lawyer from Zaner Harden Law, LLP amplifies your chances of securing a favorable outcome, transforming the disheartening experience of a rideshare accident into a journey toward justice and compensation. Contact us online or at (720) 613-9706 to learn more.
Visit Our Denver Personal Injury Law Office
Zaner Harden Law, LLP – Denver Office
1610 Wynkoop Street. Suite 120. Denver, CO. 80202
(720) 613-9706
Denver emergency rooms
- Saint Joseph Hospital Emergency Room – 1375 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
- Denver Health Emergency Department – 777 Bannock St Pavilion A, Denver, CO 80204
- Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center Emergency Room – 2001 High St, Denver, CO 80205
Our Denver, CO personal injury law office also provides:
- Car Accident Lawyers in Denver, CO
- Construction Accident Lawyer in Denver, CO
- Electric Explosion Attorney in Denver, CO
- Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Denver, CO
- Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Denver, CO
- Premises Liability Lawyers in Denver, CO
- Product Liability Lawyer in Denver, CO
- Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Denver, CO
- Truck Accident Lawyers in Denver, CO
- Brain Injury Attorney in Denver, CO
- Bus Accident Lawyer in Denver, CO
- Burn Injury Lawyer in Denver, CO
- Dog Bite Attorney in Denver, CO
- Ski Accident Lawyers in Denver, CO
- Toxic Exposure Attorneys in Denver, CO
- Slip and fall Accident Lawyer in Denver, CO
- Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys in Denver, CO
- Whistleblower Attorney in Denver, CO
- Workplace Accident Lawyer in Denver, CO
- Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Denver, CO
- Wrongful Death Lawyers in Denver, CO
