Virginia Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Uber and Lyft have established themselves as leading rideshare services in Virginia and throughout the country. While these services offer convenience for passengers, they also raise several legal and liability issues in the event of a crash.

As a Virginia personal injury lawyer, I will help you understand your legal rights and options. In addition, I can provide the guidance you need to navigate the complex insurance landscape and pursue fair compensation. I am Ed Atkinson; call me today for a free, no-obligation case consultation.

What Sets Rideshare Crashes Apart from Other Personal Injury Cases?

Rideshare accidents are unique compared to other personal injury cases due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the rideshare company and the driver. Furthermore, rideshare drivers are typically classified as independent contractors rather than employees, complicating liability determination.

Additionally, rideshare companies often have insurance policies that may provide coverage in the event of a crash. However, the specific terms and limits of coverage can vary depending on the circumstances of the collision.

Due to my vast experience with similar cases, I understand the unique legal challenges of rideshare accidents. From determining liability to negotiating with insurance companies, I can help you achieve a successful outcome. I will present you with a custom-tailored legal strategy to meet your needs.

A Lawyer Who Understands How Rideshare Insurance Policies Work

In Virginia, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are called Transportation Network Companies (TNC) and must meet specific insurance requirements. For example, the law requires these companies to have liability coverage of $1 million while the vehicle is in use with the TNC platform.

The coverage limits may increase if the rideshare driver has obtained additional insurance. However, the specific details of the coverage can vary depending on the crash circumstances and the rideshare company’s insurance policy terms.

If TNC insurance coverage seems confusing, that’s because it is. However, as a rideshare accident attorney, I can help you understand how specific insurance regulations impact your case.

Recovering Compensation After a Rideshare Crash

A rideshare accident can have a significant financial impact on those involved. In addition to medical bills and lost wages due to time off work, other expenses may arise, such as vehicle repairs.

If another party’s negligence caused the collision, you could be compensated for your losses. However, pursuing a personal injury claim can be complex and time-consuming. So instead, seek legal representation from a Virginia rideshare accident attorney who can advocate for your best interests.

Economic Damages

Usually, the immediate financial concerns of accident victims revolve around the tangible losses experienced. These economic damages are easily calculated with the help of bills and receipts, so save any proof of your accident-related expenses. You could qualify for:

• Medical expenses.
• The cost of future medical treatments.
• Property damage.
• Lost wages.
• Loss of future earnings.

Non-Economic Damages

The emotional impact of a traffic accident is often overlooked. However, survivors may experience difficulty maintaining stable social relationships, and their quality of life may decrease.

For example, you may lose interest in activities you once enjoyed (like hobbies). If you experience an emotional or social aftershock of the crash, you can also recover damages for these intangible losses.

I can help you identify the non-economic damages you qualify for and prove the psychological impact of the accident. You could receive:

• Pain and suffering.
• Loss of enjoyment of life.
• Mental anguish.
• Emotional distress.

Punitive Damages

Under specific circumstances, the injured party can also receive punitive damages. This is a special category of damages aimed at punishing the defendant and deterring others from engaging in the same behavior.

In Virginia, punitive damages may be awarded when the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless. However, the bar for proving the need for such damages is high. We must demonstrate that the defendant’s actions were done with a conscious disregard for the safety of others.

An example of a Virginia rideshare accident case where punitive damages may apply is a crash caused by a negligent driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Driving while impaired is a particularly reckless action that demonstrates a conscious disregard for the safety of others on the road.

The Virginia Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits

Virginia’s statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the accident date. If you are injured in a car crash, you have two years from the date of the collision to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

You may lose your right to pursue compensation if you do not file your lawsuit within this time frame. However, there are some exceptions to the statute of limitations, such as cases involving minors.

It’s always best to consult an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a rideshare collision to ensure that you meet all legal deadlines.

Why You Should Choose Atkinson Law for Your Virginia Rideshare Accident

Unlike other firms, I prioritize client referrals and satisfaction over advertising costs and charge a lower percentage fee for car accident cases than some firms do. I also offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, so you have zero risk when choosing my firm for your claim.

In addition, I pride myself on over-preparation and swinging for the fences with every case. I view each client’s case as unique and offer customized, premium services tailored to your preferences.

I only use expensive, reliable, and secure technology, such as Mac computers and advanced case management software, to ensure I provide the best possible service to my clients.

Finally, with my COVID-safe office and willingness to travel to meet clients wherever they are, you can trust me to put your safety and convenience first. So if you want a personal injury lawyer to fight for you and provide best-in-class customer service, choose Atkinson Law for your Virginia rideshare accident.

Call Atkinson Law for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation

At Atkinson Law, I will ensure that you are not taken advantage of by the rideshare company or their insurance provider. As your Virginia rideshare crash lawyer, I will help you navigate the process of filing an accident claim for the compensation you need to cover your losses.

I personally handle each Atkinson Law case and take the time to understand your motivation for taking legal action. Whether it’s to seek justice against the at-fault driver or to secure compensation, I am prepared to fight for your rights. Contact me today to discuss your next steps.