Can I Sue for a Rideshare Accident in Charlotte?

Rideshare services are slowly becoming a more important aspect of our everyday lives. The once-taboo concept of getting into a stranger’s car is turning into a normal way of traveling throughout Charlotte. The cheapness of rideshare services is attractive to people who either lack a vehicle of their own or don’t want to drive to their destination themselves. 

Rideshare services may even supplant traditional taxi services someday. However, rideshare services are just as dangerous as any other form of transportation. There is still a risk of suffering from a severe injury while using a rideshare service, like whiplash, broken bones, or blunt force trauma. 

If you are hurt while using a rideshare service in Charlotte, you may be able to collect compensation for your damages.

The Risks of Rideshare Services

The nature of rideshare services such as Lyft, Uber, and others invites a variety of drivers to the industry. However, the individuals who work as drivers for rideshare services may not always be thoroughly vetted, although they should. 

For example, while Uber claims that they require background checks and forms of identification (such as a driver’s full name, social security number, and more) from their drivers, there is no requirement of skill or professionalism to be an Uber driver. What this means for you is that you’re at the mercy of whichever driver you happen to summon whenever you use a rideshare service like Uber. 

These unknown and potentially inexperienced drivers could be prone to distracted driving or worse, just as other drivers are. One glance at their phone, and a rideshare driver could cause you to experience a devastating car accident. While you would like to think that every rideshare driver values road safety, this isn’t always true. 

Receiving Compensation for Your Rideshare Accident

Most rideshare companies consider their drivers independent contractors rather than employees. For this reason, it’s often difficult to pursue a case against many rideshare companies. Usually, if you’re seeking compensation for your damages, you’ll file your claim against the driver’s insurance company rather than against the rideshare company. 

However, Uber has recently introduced a $1.5 million liability insurance for all passengers. Uber’s insurance policy begins the moment you start your rideshare experience and ends the second you reach your destination. 

Actions to Take after Your Charlotte Rideshare Accident

Similar to a typical auto accident in Charlotte, you’re going to want to gather as much evidence as you can. Immediately reporting your rideshare accident to the authorities is advised when building your case. You should also document your physical, mental, and financial damages in the aftermath of your Charlotte rideshare accident. All of these actions can help increase your settlement amount.

The confusing nature of rideshare liability is something that is best handled by one of our Charlotte rideshare accident attorneys. 

Get in Touch with a Charlotte Rideshare Accident Lawyer

The Nye Law Group understands how complex and confusing a rideshare accident claim is to the average person. Regardless of the rideshare company, The Nye Law Group will fight for your settlement. 

The rideshare industry is still developing and evolving their policies as they become more commonplace throughout Charlotte. In the meantime, The Nye Law Group can defend your right to compensation in a rideshare accident case. To speak with one of Charlotte rideshare accident attorneys, dial 704-285-6319 or fill out our contact form on the bottom of this page.