Portsmouth Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare services have transformed how people travel, providing a cost-effective transportation option through a simple tap on a smartphone. However, while convenient, Lyft and Uber rides are not risk-free, as drivers may engage in dangerous behavior. 

Whether the crash is due to driver negligence, distracted driving, or other factors, the injured party has a right to claim damages. A Portsmouth car accident lawyer can protect your rights.

I’m Ed Atkinson, and I dedicated my legal practice to serving injured victims throughout Virginia. As a testament to my law firm’s premium legal services, I am the only Portsmouth personal injury lawyer in the area with only five-star Google reviews. Call me today to discuss how to recover damages after your Lyft or Uber car accident.

What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different from Other Car Crash Cases?

Lyft and Uber accident cases require a specialized understanding of the transportation industry and its regulations. As an experienced rideshare accident attorney, I am well-versed in the ever-evolving regulations and insurance policies.

The following elements add complexity to an Uber or Lyft accident claim:

• Insurance coverage: The involvement of rideshare companies and their insurance plans can create a complicated legal landscape. When drivers are on duty transporting passengers, their personal insurance may not cover the crash; instead, the rideshare company’s policy may apply.
• Establishing fault: Determining liability in these types of car accident cases can be complex, as it often involves multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, their company, and other potentially negligent drivers.
• Collecting evidence: Additionally, gathering evidence and establishing the timeline of events can be challenging. Rideshare apps and electronic records may be necessary to determine the driver’s status during the crash.

Given these factors, seeking legal representation is important for obtaining financial recovery. As an experienced rideshare accident attorney serving Portsmouth, VA, I understand these challenges and am dedicated to fighting for your rights.

Whether negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence, or pursuing a lawsuit, I will work tirelessly on your behalf. As your rideshare accident attorney, my role extends beyond legal counsel; it involves being a steadfast advocate, ensuring your voice is heard, and your rights are protected. 

Understanding Portsmouth Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Uber and Lyft are considered Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) operating under specific Virginia insurance regulations. By meeting these insurance requirements, TNCs ensure adequate coverage to protect drivers and passengers after accidents. 

For example, these rideshare companies must maintain liability coverage of $1 million while the drivers use their software platform.

In addition, rideshare drivers are responsible for meeting standard auto insurance requirements outlined in the Code of Virginia § 46.2-472. 

The type of auto insurance coverage that applies in a collision involving an Uber or Lyft driver depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. 

If you were injured in a rideshare crash in Portsmouth, VA, don’t allow the complicated insurance system to deter you from recovering the damages you are owed.

As your rideshare accident lawyer, I will empower you to fight for your rights by helping you understand how Virginia’s laws and insurance regulations impact your case. Being equipped with this knowledge, you will be better prepared to make informed decisions and actively participate in your case.

Damages You Can Recover After a Rideshare Accident in Portsmouth, VA

As a rideshare crash victim, you may be entitled to recover damages. However, insurance companies usually try to avoid paying significant amounts on accident claims. Insurance adjusters may attempt to undervalue your claim, dispute liability, or use other tactics to reduce their financial responsibility.

With a deep understanding of insurance company strategies and tactics, I can skillfully advocate for your rights and fight to secure maximum compensation. My track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for clients is a testament to my commitment to achieving favorable results.

Compensatory Damages

Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may quickly become weighed down by medical bills and other accident-related expenses.

Furthermore, severe injuries, such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), can profoundly impact your ability to work. The loss of income further aggravates the already significant financial burdens caused by the cost of medical treatments.

As your rideshare accident lawyer serving Portsmouth, VA, I could help you recover the following types of damages:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical costs
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Emotional distress
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment

With years of experience as a personal injury lawyer, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact accidents can have on victims and their families. I understand the chaos and uncertainty that follows such a traumatic event. My primary objective is to help you navigate through this difficult time.

I am dedicated to helping you understand your rights, the legal process, and the options available. By answering your questions and giving you the knowledge and information you need, I aim to assist you in rebuilding your life. You can trust I will be by your side throughout the legal process.

Punitive Damages

In Virginia, punitive damages are generally awarded only in cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious. These are intended to punish the negligent party for their reckless or intentional conduct and deter similar behavior.

Based on my extensive experience as a personal injury lawyer in Virginia, collisions involving drunk driving are the most common cases that qualify for punitive damages.

Per Virginia Code § 8.01-44.5, the at-fault driver’s conduct is sufficiently reckless if they had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15% or higher at the time of the crash.

Virginia’s Statute of Limitation for Personal Injury Lawsuits

If you were injured in a Lyft or Uber accident, you have limited time to take legal action. Under Virginia’s statute of limitation, you generally have two years to file a lawsuit against the liable party.

Act promptly and seek legal counsel as soon as possible to ensure your attorney has ample time to construct a robust case on your behalf. Waiting too long to pursue legal action can result in losing your right to seek compensation.

Call Atkinson Law for a Free Legal Consultation

The legal landscape surrounding Lyft and Uber accident cases is complex, often causing confusion and frustration for injured accident victims. Insurance companies may intentionally complicate matters to dissuade individuals from seeking fair compensation.

However, you do not have to navigate the financial recovery process alone. Atkinson Law can offer legal guidance to level the playing field and protect your rights.

As a Portsmouth rideshare accident attorney, I prioritize open and responsive communication with each of my clients. I make it a point to promptly answer client questions, addressing their concerns and keeping them informed about the progress of their case.

Contact my law office to schedule a free legal consultation. This initial meeting is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, assess the merits of your case, and determine the best course of action moving forward.