Bluffton Rideshare Accident Lawyer

In recent years, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Bluffton, South Carolina. While these services offer convenience and flexibility, they also introduce new complexities when it comes to accidents and liability. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, whether as a passenger, driver, or third party, you need a skilled Bluffton rideshare accident lawyer to navigate the intricate legalities and protect your rights.

Why You Need a Bluffton Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare accidents present unique challenges that set them apart from traditional car accidents. A Bluffton rideshare accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance in these complex cases:

• Understanding of rideshare laws: Rideshare companies operate under specific regulations that can impact your case. An experienced attorney will be well-versed in these laws and how they apply to your situation.
• Determining liability: In rideshare accidents, multiple parties may be liable, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, other drivers, or even vehicle manufacturers. Your attorney will investigate thoroughly to identify all responsible parties.
• Navigating insurance complexities: Rideshare insurance policies can be confusing, with coverage that changes depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. A skilled lawyer can help you understand which policies apply and how to maximize your compensation.
• Gathering crucial evidence: Your attorney will collect and preserve essential evidence, including rideshare app data, driver logs, and witness statements, to build a strong case on your behalf.
• Negotiating with multiple parties: Your lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance companies, rideshare companies, and other involved parties to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Litigation expertise: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court and advocate for you before a judge and jury.
• Understanding of damages: A skilled rideshare accident lawyer can help you identify all potential damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care costs.
• Timely filing: Your attorney will ensure that all necessary documents and claims are filed within the required deadlines, protecting your right to seek compensation.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Bluffton

Our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm has handled numerous cases involving various causes of rideshare accidents. Some of the most common include:

• Distracted Drivers: Rideshare apps can take a driver’s focus off the road.
• Drowsy Driving: Long hours behind the wheel lead to fatigue and slower reaction times.
• Speeding for Fares: Pressure to complete rides quickly can tempt drivers to exceed speed limits.
• Unfamiliar Roads: Relying on navigation systems can be distracting, especially on unfamiliar streets.
• Unmaintained Vehicles: Faulty brakes, tires, or other neglected issues can cause accidents.
• New Drivers on the Road: Some rideshare drivers might lack the experience for complex driving situations.
• Impaired Drivers: This is illegal, but it can still happen. If the rideshare company failed to properly screen the driver, they could be liable.
• Aggressive Maneuvers: Rushing to pick up passengers or avoid traffic can lead to reckless driving.
• Bad Weather in Bluffton: Rain, fog, or other hazards can increase the risk of accidents, particularly for drivers unfamiliar with the area.
• Disruptive Passengers: In extreme cases, unruly passengers can distract the driver and contribute to an accident.

Understanding these common causes can help in determining liability and building a strong compensation case.

Types of Rideshare Accidents

Our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm has handled numerous cases involving various causes of rideshare accidents. Some of the most common include:

1. Collisions with other vehicles: These are the most common type of rideshare accident and can occur at intersections, while changing lanes, or due to following too closely.
2. Pedestrian accidents: Rideshare drivers making pick-ups or drop-offs may not see pedestrians, especially in poorly lit areas.
3. Bicycle accidents: Similar to pedestrian accidents, rideshare drivers turning or merging lanes might collide with cyclists.
4. Single-vehicle accidents (e.g., hitting a stationary object): These can happen due to driver fatigue, distracted driving, or poor weather conditions.
5. Accidents due to road conditions or construction: Unmaintained roads, potholes, or unexpected construction zones can cause rideshare accidents.
6. Accidents involving uninsured or underinsured motorists: If the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance, your rideshare accident attorney can explore other coverage options.
7. Multi-vehicle pile-ups: Complex accidents involving multiple vehicles can happen on busy roads or highways.
8. Accidents during passenger pick-up or drop-off: These can be particularly tricky because determining liability depends on the specific phase of the ride. Here’s a breakdown:
   1. Driver logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride: The rideshare company’s insurance likely won’t apply in this case. You might need to file a claim against the driver’s insurance.
   2. Driver en route to pick you up: The rideshare company’s insurance typically provides primary coverage during this phase.
   3. Passenger in the car (during pick-up or drop-off): This is usually when the rideshare company’s insurance offers the most comprehensive coverage for passengers.

Each type of accident presents unique challenges in terms of liability and compensation. Our experienced attorneys are equipped to handle the specific nuances of your case, regardless of the accident type.

Injuries Common in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm sees include:

1. Whiplash and neck injuries: These are common due to the sudden jolting motions that can occur in a collision.
2. Back injuries and spinal cord damage: The forces involved in an accident can cause serious back injuries, herniated discs, or even permanent spinal cord damage.
3. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head injuries can occur from hitting your head on the car’s interior or from debris. The severity of TBIs can range from mild concussions to life-altering conditions.
4. Broken bones and fractures: Broken bones are common in car accidents, and the location and severity will determine the treatment and recovery time.
5. Soft tissue injuries: These include sprains, strains, and muscle tears, which can cause significant pain and limitations.
6. Internal organ damage: Blunt force trauma from an accident can damage internal organs, requiring immediate medical attention.
7. Cuts, bruises, and lacerations: These are the most common injuries, but depending on the severity, they can require stitches or leave permanent scarring.
8. Psychological trauma, including PTSD: The emotional impact of a rideshare accident can be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, or even Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
9. Burns: Accidents involving fires or explosions can cause serious burns that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
10. Wrongful death: In the most tragic cases, rideshare accidents can result in fatalities. If you have lost a loved one due to a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

The severity and long-term impact of these injuries can vary greatly. Our attorneys work closely with medical experts to fully understand the extent of your injuries and ensure that your compensation claim accounts for all current and future medical needs.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage

One of the most complex aspects of rideshare accidents is understanding the applicable insurance coverage. Our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm can help you navigate this complicated landscape:

• Driver’s insurance: This typically applies when the rideshare app is off and the driver is not actively engaged in ridesharing activities. However, most personal auto insurance policies exclude commercial activities, and ridesharing is often considered commercial use. There may be limited exceptions during the period the driver is logged into the app but hasn’t yet accepted a ride request.
• Rideshare company’s contingent liability coverage: This limited coverage applies when the app is on, but the driver hasn’t accepted a ride request yet. The amount of coverage can vary depending on the rideshare company, but it’s generally lower than the coverage provided when a ride is active.
• Rideshare company’s full coverage: This kicks in from the time a ride is accepted through the end of the trip when the passenger is dropped off. This is typically the most robust coverage available and may cover medical expenses, property damage, and even some passenger injuries.
• Third-party insurance: If another driver caused the accident and was at fault, their insurance should be the primary source of compensation. Their insurance would cover your injuries and damages according to the limits of their policy.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM): This coverage from your auto insurance policy can protect you if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance or is completely uninsured. However, UM/UIM coverage typically requires that you carry it and that you were not at fault for the accident.

The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm will meticulously investigate the specific details of your case, including the phase of the ride when the accident occurred. This will determine which insurance policies may be applicable and help us identify the best course of action to maximize your compensation.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Bluffton

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward can strengthen your case. Our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm recommends the following actions:

• Ensure safety: Check yourself and others for injuries. Move to a safe location if possible.
• Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
• Document the scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the overall accident scene.
• Gather information: Collect contact and insurance details from all involved parties, including the rideshare driver.
• Identify witnesses: Get contact information from any witnesses to the accident.
• Preserve rideshare data: Take screenshots of your ride information in the app, including driver details and trip status.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Report the accident: Notify the rideshare company through their app or website.
• Don’t discuss fault: Avoid making statements about who was at fault for the accident.
• Contact a Bluffton rideshare accident attorney: Seek legal representation as soon as possible to protect your rights.

How Our Bluffton Rideshare Accident Law Firm Can Help You

At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we offer comprehensive legal support for rideshare accident victims:

• Free initial consultation: We’ll review your case at no cost and explain your legal options.
• Thorough investigation: Our team will conduct a detailed investigation of your accident, gathering crucial evidence to support your claim.
• Skilled negotiation: Our attorneys are experienced negotiators who will fight for a fair settlement on your behalf.
• Trial preparation: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.
• Regular communication: We keep you informed about the progress of your case every step of the way.
• No upfront fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
• Comprehensive support: Beyond legal representation, we can help coordinate medical care and provide guidance on dealing with insurance companies.
• Personalized attention: Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and goals.
• Proven track record: Our firm has a history of successful outcomes in rideshare accident cases, and we’ll bring that experience to bear on your behalf.

Compensation in Rideshare Accident Cases

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. Our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm will fight to secure damages that may include:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation costs
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

The amount of compensation you may receive depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the circumstances of the accident. Our skilled attorneys will work diligently to maximize your compensation and ensure that all your losses are accounted for.

South Carolina Laws Affecting Rideshare Accidents

Understanding the laws that govern rideshare companies and accidents in South Carolina is crucial for building a strong case. Our Bluffton rideshare accident law firm is well-versed in these laws:

• Transportation Network Company Act: This law sets regulations for rideshare companies operating in South Carolina, including insurance requirements and driver background checks.
• Statute of limitations: In South Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
• Modified comparative negligence: South Carolina follows a 51% rule, meaning you can recover damages as long as you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident.
• Vicarious liability: In some cases, rideshare companies may be held liable for their drivers’ actions, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
• Uninsured motorist coverage: South Carolina law requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage, which can be crucial in rideshare accident cases.

Our attorneys stay up-to-date on all relevant laws and regulations to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Bluffton Rideshare Accident Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my rideshare driver gets into an accident?

Ensure your safety, call 911, document the scene, gather information from all parties involved, and contact a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible.

Can I sue the rideshare company if I’m injured in an accident?

It depends on the circumstances of the accident and the driver’s status at the time. In some cases, you may be able to pursue a claim against the rideshare company. Our attorneys can help determine the best course of action.

What if the rideshare driver was not at fault for the accident?

If another driver was at fault, you might need to file a claim against their insurance. However, the rideshare company’s insurance may still come into play. Our lawyers can help navigate these complex situations.

How long will it take to resolve my rideshare accident case?

The duration can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether a settlement can be reached. We strive to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while ensuring fair compensation.

What if I was injured as a passenger in a regular car that collided with a rideshare vehicle?

You may have claims against multiple parties, including the driver of the car you were in, the rideshare driver, and potentially the rideshare company. Our attorneys can help identify all potential sources of compensation.

Contact The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm Today

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Bluffton, don’t navigate the complex legal landscape alone. Ali Awad, known as the CEO Lawyer, is the founder and managing attorney of one of the fastest-growing law firms in the United States. With over one million followers on social media who turn to him for personal injury advice of all types, Ali and his team of experienced attorneys have successfully handled cases just like yours, boasting an impressive success rate of over 99.5%.

Don’t let your rights be compromised. Contact The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm today for a free consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call us at (864) 664-3865 or visit our website to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you navigate the complexities of your rideshare accident case.