Getting around North Mississippi has never been easier thanks to services like Uber and Lyft. These companies have changed how we travel, whether you need a ride home after dinner in Southaven or transportation to work in Hernando. But when rideshare drivers cause crashes, the path to recovery can be complicated. The insurance rules differ from those that apply in regular car accidents, and you need attorneys who understand these differences.
At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we have the experience and knowledge to handle rideshare accident cases throughout DeSoto, Marshall, Tate, and Tunica counties. Our attorneys will personally guide you through every step of your claim, and you will never pay a fee unless we recover money for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different From Regular Car Crashes?
Rideshare accidents involve unique challenges. The biggest difference lies in the insurance coverage. While most car accidents involve two insurance companies at most, rideshare accidents can involve three or more different policies. The coverage that applies depends on what the driver was doing at the exact moment of the crash. Shifting coverage levels can create confusion that insurance companies often use to their advantage.
When Do Rideshare Companies Provide Insurance Coverage?
Understanding when rideshare insurance applies can make or break your claim. Rideshare companies are required to provide specific coverage amounts in crashes caused by the rideshare driver based on the driver’s status:
- App off: The driver’s personal auto insurance provides the only coverage, just like any other driver on the road.
- App on, waiting for rides: The rideshare company provides limited liability coverage if the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim.
- Ride accepted or passenger in car: The rideshare company must provide at least $1 million in liability coverage for injuries and property damage.
These coverage periods create gaps that can leave injured people struggling to find compensation. For example, if a rideshare driver hits you while waiting for a ride request, you might face resistance from both the driver’s personal insurer and the rideshare company. We know how to close these gaps and pursue money from every available source of compensation.
Who Can File a Claim After a Rideshare Accident?
Many people can seek compensation after a crash caused by a rideshare driver. You don’t need to be a passenger in the rideshare vehicle to have a valid claim. We can help you if you were:
- A passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle
- A driver in another vehicle
- A pedestrian or cyclist
- A passenger in another car
Each type of victim faces different challenges when seeking compensation. Passengers might feel uncomfortable pursuing claims. Other drivers might not know which insurance company to contact first. We will handle these concerns and protect your rights regardless of your role in the accident.
What Should You Do Right After a Rideshare Crash?
The moments after a rideshare accident can feel overwhelming, but the steps you take can strengthen your future claim. Your health comes first, so get to safety and call 911 if anyone needs medical help. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor soon. Some injuries might not show symptoms right away.
It is also essential to:
- Document everything you can at the scene. Take photos of all vehicles involved, including license plates and company decals. Get pictures of the road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks.
- Ask the rideshare driver for their name and personal insurance information, not just the ride details from the app.
- Collect contact information from everyone who saw what happened.
- Be careful what you say to insurance companies. They might call you quickly, hoping to get a recorded statement before you understand your rights. You don’t have to give them a statement without speaking to an attorney first.
How Can Our Attorneys Help With Your Rideshare Accident Case?
At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we bring together nearly a century of legal experience serving North Mississippi families. Our attorneys have tried over 100 jury cases and secured millions in compensation for injured clients. We will put this experience to work for you by handling every aspect of your rideshare accident claim.
We will investigate the crash thoroughly, going beyond the police report to uncover what really happened. This includes reviewing the rideshare driver’s history, analyzing GPS and app data, and working with accident reconstructionists and medical experts when needed.
One of the most important things our team has to offer is that we will deal with the insurance companies. We know their tactics and won’t let them take advantage of you by asking leading questions or twisting your words. If they refuse to offer fair compensation, we will take them to court. The rideshare companies and their insurers know our reputation for fighting hard for our clients, often leading to better settlement offers.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Rideshare Accident?
Mississippi law allows rideshare accident victims to seek various types of compensation. The exact amount depends on your situation, but we will fight for everything you deserve. This may include compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Reduced quality of life
If you lost a loved one in a rideshare accident, we can help you pursue a wrongful death claim. While no amount of money can bring back someone you love, compensation can help provide financial security during a painful time.
Why Choose Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman for Your Rideshare Accident Case?
Our firm has served North Mississippi since 1932. In that time, we have built a reputation for honest, aggressive representation. We have deep roots in this community, with offices in both Southaven and Hernando. Our attorneys have held positions as District Attorneys and Circuit Judges, giving us unique insight into how the legal system works.
Most importantly, we have the trial experience to take on rideshare companies and their insurance carriers. These billion-dollar corporations have teams of lawyers protecting their interests. You need attorneys who won’t back down from a fight and who have proven they can win in court.
Contact our office today for a free consultation about your rideshare accident case.
