Uber and Lyft are both ride-hailing platforms that connect drivers through mobile apps. These companies provide a crucial service to customers who rely on their drivers to commute to work, attend social gatherings, run errands, and complete various other tasks. Unfortunately, many ridesharing drivers are involved in harmful collisions.
If you were hurt because of an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, then there may be multiple options for pursuing financial compensation. The team at our firm will review your case and explain which options may be available to you. Afterwards, we can fight to protect your rights and interests while offering guidance on your path to recovery.
In the aftermath of your Uber or Lyft accident in Marietta, seek support from our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys at Howe Law by calling (844) 876-4357 today.
Who to Sue After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Marietta, GA
It can be difficult to determine how to recover compensation after a harmful Uber or Lyft accident. A key part of this determination will involve assessing who is to blame for your crash.
Accidents Caused by Uber and Lyft Drivers
If your crash occurred because an Uber or Lyft driver acted negligently, then you will probably be unable to file a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft directly. These companies classify their drivers as independent contractors rather than standard employees. Accordingly, Uber and Lyft typically cannot be held responsible for their drivers’ negligent actions.
Thankfully, both companies carry insurance policies in order to cover damages their drivers cause. Our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help injured parties pursue claims under the appropriate policies.
After Accidents Caused by Third-Party Drivers
If your Uber or Lyft accident happened because another, third-party driver acted carelessly, then you may be able to sue the at-fault driver for the injuries you sustained. In order to recover damages in such a case, you must prove that your accident occurred because of the third-party driver’s negligence. Furthermore, you must establish that your injuries and resulting damages stem from the accident at issue.
The team at our law firm can also help victims prepare their cases against other, third-party motorists. We will fight to ensure that our clients obtain the maximum amount of monetary damages available to them.
Common Injuries Suffered by Uber and Lyft Accident Victims in Marietta, GA
Uber and Lyft accidents can produce a wide array of painful and debilitating injuries. If you sustained any of the following as a result of your crash, then you may be awarded substantial compensation:
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal cord damage involves injury to the spinal cord, which can result in varying degrees of paralysis and loss of sensory and motor function. For instance, in an Uber or Lyft accident, a passenger may experience spinal cord damage if the impact causes a severe jolt to the spine, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Treatment for spinal cord injuries may involve surgical intervention to stabilize the spine, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and assistive devices like wheelchairs.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries refer to damage to organs and tissues inside the body. In the context of a rideshare accident, a passenger could sustain internal injuries if a sudden impact causes organs to be bruised or damaged. For instance, a collision could lead to a passenger experiencing internal bleeding from a ruptured spleen. Treatment for internal injuries typically involves medical imaging, surgery, and supportive care to manage pain and prevent complications.
Burns
Burns result from contact with heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation, causing damage to the skin and underlying tissues. In an Uber or Lyft accident, a passenger might sustain burns if a vehicle catches fire following a collision. These burns can range from first-degree to third-degree, with varying levels of severity. Treatment may include wound care, skin grafts, and pain management.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries occur when the brain is subjected to a sudden impact or jolt, leading to cognitive, sensory, or motor impairments. In the context of a rideshare accident, a passenger could suffer a traumatic brain injury if their head strikes a hard surface during a collision. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, requiring medical assessment, imaging, and potential rehabilitation.
Soft Tissue Damage
Soft tissue damage involves injuries to muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissues. A passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident might experience soft tissue damage if their body is forcefully twisted or strained upon impact. This could result in strains, sprains, or tears in the affected tissues. Treatment often includes rest, physical therapy, and pain management.
Broken Bones
Broken bones, or fractures, occur when the force applied to a bone exceeds its strength. In an Uber or Lyft accident, a passenger might sustain a broken bone if a collision results in a sudden and forceful impact. For example, a passenger’s leg could break if it hits the dashboard during a crash. Treatment involves setting the bone, immobilization through casts or splints, and potentially surgical intervention.
Lacerations and Abrasions
Lacerations are deep cuts or tears in the skin, while abrasions are superficial scrapes or friction-related injuries. In an Uber or Lyft accident, passengers could sustain lacerations and abrasions from broken glass, sharp objects, or contact with hard surfaces. For instance, a passenger’s arm might get cut by shattered glass upon impact. Treatment involves cleaning the wound, sutures or staples for lacerations, and keeping the area clean to prevent infection.
Psychological Harm
Psychological harm encompasses emotional and mental distress following a traumatic event like a rideshare accident. A passenger may experience psychological harm due to the stress and fear associated with the accident. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Treatment may involve therapy, counseling, and in some cases, medication to address the psychological effects of the collision.
Call Our Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers for Assistance with Your Case in Marietta, GA
Get help from our Uber and Lyft accident attorneys by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
