Rideshare Accident Attorney in Dallas, TX: How McGilberry & Shirer Can Help
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation, but they also bring complex legal issues when accidents occur. Here’s a guide to navigating your rights and understanding how McGilberry & Shirer can help you maximize your compensation after a rideshare accident in Dallas, TX.
Understanding Rideshare Accident Liability
Rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties, including drivers, rideshare companies, passengers, and other drivers on the road. Determining liability can be complex due to the involvement of these multiple entities. The insurance policies of rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, offer different coverage levels depending on whether the driver was logged into the app or had passengers at the time of the accident.
- While Logged into the App Without Passengers: Uber or Lyft provides limited liability coverage.
- While Carrying Passengers: The coverage increases significantly, often up to $1 million for liability and injury.
- Off-Duty Drivers: In this case, the driver’s personal insurance is typically responsible.
McGilberry & Shirer attorneys are experienced in determining which insurance policies apply and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident
In the immediate aftermath of a rideshare accident, your actions can significantly impact your claim. To protect your rights and maximize your potential compensation, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not manifest immediately. A doctor’s report is crucial for both your health and legal case.
- Report the Accident: Make sure to report the accident to both the rideshare company and the police. The official reports will serve as vital evidence.
- Collect Evidence: Gather contact information from all involved parties, document the scene with photos, and obtain witness statements if possible.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize their payout. Always consult an attorney before speaking to an adjuster.
Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can lead to a variety of serious injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Soft Tissue Damage
The severity of these injuries can vary, but all can lead to long-term physical and financial consequences. McGilberry & Shirer has extensive experience in securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs.
How McGilberry & Shirer Can Help You?
The legal process after a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, particularly when dealing with large rideshare companies and their insurance policies. McGilberry & Shirer’s team of skilled attorneys can help you by:
- Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and determining which insurance policies apply.
- Filing a Claim: Ensuring that your claim is filed properly and on time, which is crucial given Texas’ statute of limitations for personal injury cases.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters often try to settle for less than what you deserve. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and will fight for fair compensation.
- Going to Court if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, McGilberry & Shirer is prepared to take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for both current and future medical bills related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you can recover compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or reckless behavior, the court may award punitive damages as a form of punishment for the responsible party.
Dealing with Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies
Uber and Lyft have extensive insurance coverage policies for their drivers. However, understanding when and how these policies apply is key to receiving compensation. The insurance coverage offered by Uber and Lyft typically includes:
- $1 million liability coverage when the driver is on the job and carrying passengers.
- Limited coverage when the driver is logged into the app but has no passengers.
- No coverage if the driver is off-duty, meaning the driver’s personal insurance applies.
McGilberry & Shirer has years of experience in dealing with rideshare accident cases and will ensure that the proper insurance policies are utilized for your claim.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
The legal process following a rideshare accident can be lengthy and complicated, but McGilberry & Shirer will guide you through each step:
- Investigation: We will gather evidence from the scene, interview witnesses, and obtain the necessary police reports.
- Filing the Lawsuit: If negotiations fail, we will file a personal injury attorneys lawsuit on your behalf.
- Negotiation and Mediation: We aim to settle the case without going to trial, but are prepared to take it to court if necessary.
- Trial: If the case proceeds to trial, our experienced trial attorneys will represent your best interests.
Why Choose McGilberry & Shirer for Your Rideshare Accident Case
McGilberry & Shirer stands out for our dedication, experience, and results. With over 60 years of combined experience, we understand the intricacies of rideshare accident claims and will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, contact McGilberry & Shirer LLP at 972-764-8675 today. Our dedicated attorneys are ready to provide the legal guidance you need and fight for your rightful compensation. We are the leading personal injury, car accident, truck accident, and bicycle accident attorneys in Dallas and Fort Worth.