Norfolk Rideshare Accident Lawyer

With their user-friendly apps and widespread availability, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a preferred mode of transportation for many individuals. However, the rise in rideshare rides has also led to concerns regarding passenger safety.

If you were injured in a crash, you have a right to recover compensation. As your Norfolk rideshare accident lawyer, I will protect your rights and represent your interests. Call me, Ed Atkinson, your trusted Norfolk car accident lawyer, to discuss your rideshare accident case. I provide a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

When to Call a Norfolk Rideshare Accident Attorney?

After a rideshare accident, your priority should be to seek appropriate medical care for any injuries. Once your immediate health needs are addressed, it is crucial to contact a Norfolk rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible. Lyft and Uber accident claims are complex and require a thorough understanding of the rideshare industry, insurance policies, and applicable regulations.

As an experienced personal injury lawyer in Norfolk, VA, I am dedicated to supporting my clients throughout their recovery process. Making a positive impact on the lives of those who have suffered due to the negligence of others is a constant source of pride for me.

I provide personalized legal services that cater to your unique needs and circumstances. By taking the time to understand your situation, I can develop tailored strategies to achieve the best possible outcome for your rideshare accident claim.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies

Dealing with insurance adjusters after a rideshare accident can be complex, and this is no coincidence. These cases often appear intentionally convoluted, possibly to make victims give up on seeking fair compensation for their injuries and losses.

However, understanding insurance obligations can be crucial in pursuing compensation despite the intentional complexity.

The following list outlines Lyft and Ubers three-tier insurance coverage:

• The rideshare app is offline: The driver’s personal auto insurance policy typically applies when the rideshare app is offline and the driver is not actively providing services.
• The driver is online and waiting for customers: The rideshare companies offer a 50/100/20 insurance policy. This means they extend a maximum of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
• The driver is online and picking up or transporting a passenger: Uber and Lyft offer a third-party liability policy of $1 million that may apply in case of an accident.

The intricate web of rideshare regulations, insurance policies, and liability issues can be overwhelming to navigate alone. However, as an experienced rideshare accident lawyer, I will help you level the playing field and protect your interests.

What Types of Damages You Could Recover After a Rideshare Accident in Norfolk

A rideshare accident can significantly impact your finances. The costs associated with medical treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing physical therapy, can quickly accumulate.

There may be lost wages due to missed work during your recovery period, and a long-term disability could affect future work and career opportunities. 

Furthermore, the emotional toll of the crash cannot be underestimated. For example, you might be experiencing fear and apprehension related to transportation, especially before driving. 

As your rideshare accident attorney in Norfolk, VA, I will help estimate your compensable losses, including:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical costs
• Lost wages
• Lost future earnings
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Diminished quality of life
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment

Witnessing firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of accidents on victims and their families, I am deeply committed to helping you receive maximum compensation.

You Might Also Qualify for Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in some cases to punish the at-fault party for their reckless or intentional misconduct and deter others from engaging in similar behavior. In Virginia, punitive damages can be awarded if the defendant’s actions show a conscious disregard for the safety of others, such as intoxication or racing on a public road.

Drawing from my extensive experience as a personal injury lawyer in Virginia, collisions involving drunk driving frequently qualify for punitive damages. Under Virginia law, if the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle with a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15% or above, it shows extreme negligence on their part.

Furthermore, Virginia law limits the amount of recoverable punitive damages. If your case qualifies, you can only receive a maximum of $350,000 for this portion of your claim.

As your attorney, I will diligently analyze the circumstances of your rideshare accident case and assess the potential for pursuing punitive damages. 

Identifying the Liable Party for a Rideshare Accident in Norfolk

If you were injured during a Lyft or Uber ride, it could be challenging to determine who is liable for the damages and injuries sustained. However, identifying the responsible party or parties is essential to ensure you receive compensation.

In most cases, the liable party will be one or more of the following: the rideshare driver, their company, or another driver involved in the accident. As your attorney, I can help you navigate the legal process and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.

The potential parties that could be liable or financially responsible for a rideshare accident in Norfolk, VA, include:

• The rideshare driver: If the driver’s negligence or recklessness contributed to the accident, they should be held responsible for the damages. Examples of driver negligence include distracted driving, speeding, failure to obey traffic laws, and impaired driving.
• The rideshare company: Uber or Lyft can also be financially responsible under certain circumstances. For example, if the accident occurred while the driver actively provided services on the rideshare platform, the company may share financial responsibility  based on their legal obligations and insurance coverage.
• Other motorists: If another driver’s negligence caused the rideshare accident, that driver may be liable for the damages.
• Third parties: In some cases, liability may extend to third parties, such as vehicle manufacturers or entities responsible for road maintenance, if their negligence contributed to the crash.

The Virginia Statute of Limitations for Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

The statute of limitations sets a time limit to file a lawsuit against the defendant. Under the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, you have two years to file a complaint in civil court. If you don’t take legal action within the time limit, you may forfeit your right to sue the negligent driver.

Time is of the essence. By seeking legal representation without delay, you ensure that I, as your Lyft or Uber accident lawyer, have time to build a strong case on your behalf.

Call Atkinson Law for Legal Assistance With Your Norfolk Rideshare Accident Case

If you were injured in a rideshare collision, you might feel unsure where to turn for assistance. I, Ed Atkinson, understand the challenges that arise after a rideshare crash and am dedicated to helping accident victims regain control over their lives.

As an experienced car accident lawyer in Norfolk, VA, I have successfully represented numerous clients, securing substantial settlements and verdicts on their behalf. With my in-depth knowledge of the rideshare industry and insurance policies, I am well-equipped to navigate the complexities of your case.

You don’t have to face this difficult journey alone. Contact Atkinson Law today for a free consultation, and let me guide you toward the path of financial recovery.