Rideshare Accident Attorneys in
Palmerton and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Ridesharing services have made getting around easier than ever. Whether you're heading to work, meeting friends, or traveling out of town, rideshare options offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis or public transportation.

However, rideshare accidents can happen, and when they do, victims often face challenges in getting the compensation they desire.

If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, you have legal rights. Our Pennsylvania rideshare accident attorneys at the Law Office of Shabbick & Stehle can help you understand your legal options and fight for fair compensation.

We’ll help you understand what makes rideshare accidents different from other car accident cases and what steps you should take to protect your rights. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, taking the right steps can help protect your legal rights and improve your chances of getting favorable compensation. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, see a doctor to check for hidden injuries. Delayed symptoms can appear days or even weeks later, and having a medical record can support your personal injury claim.

• Report the accident: Notify the police and file an accident report. A police report can be crucial evidence when filing a claim. Additionally, report the crash to the rideshare company through their app or customer support.

• Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If possible, record witness statements and get their contact details.

• Collect contact information: Get the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved, as well as any witnesses. Also, note the rideshare driver’s name and the rideshare company they were working for.

• Avoid admitting fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with insurance companies and the rideshare company. Even apologizing at the scene could be used against you later.

• Consult an attorney: Our experienced lawyers can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and deal with insurance adjusters who may try to minimize your claim.

What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different?

Rideshare accidents are unique compared to typical car crashes because multiple insurance policies may apply.

These cases can involve complicated liability issues and insurance disputes, making it critical to understand who’s responsible for covering damages.

Some key factors that set rideshare accidents apart include:

• Multiple insurance policies involved: Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage, but the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status. Different policies may apply depending on whether the driver was transporting a passenger, on the way to pick one up, or simply logged into the app waiting for a ride request.

• Determining liability: Rideshare accidents introduce additional layers of potential liability. The rideshare driver, the rideshare company, another driver, or even a third party such as a vehicle manufacturer or municipality responsible for road conditions could all play a role in the crash.

• Independent contractor status: Since rideshare drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees, rideshare companies often attempt to distance themselves from liability. This classification can make it harder to hold the company accountable, even when its policies or practices contribute to unsafe conditions.

• Different coverage periods: If an accident occurs when a driver isn’t logged in, their personal insurance is the coverage available. When a driver is available for rides but hasn’t yet accepted a trip, the rideshare company provides coverage. Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle, the company’s full coverage applies.

• Passenger injuries: When a rideshare passenger is injured in an accident, they often don’t know whose insurance to file a claim with. The rideshare driver, another motorist, and the rideshare company itself may all have policies that apply, making it difficult for victims to know where to turn for compensation.

• Insurance company disputes: Because multiple insurance providers are often involved, insurance companies may attempt to shift blame and avoid paying out claims. This can result in delays, denials, and reduced settlement offers for victims.

Understanding these factors is crucial when building a strong case. Now that you understand what sets rideshare accidents apart from normal traffic accidents, it’s important for you to know who can be held accountable.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

Liability in rideshare accidents depends on several factors, including the cause of the crash and the driver’s status when it happened. Potentially responsible parties include:

• The rideshare driver: If the driver was negligent, such as speeding, texting, or driving under the influence, they can be held responsible.

• The rideshare company: In some cases, the company may share liability if it failed to properly vet the driver or enforce safety policies.

• Other drivers involved: If another driver caused the accident, their insurance company may be responsible for covering damages.

• Vehicle manufacturers or maintenance providers: If a mechanical failure contributed to the crash, the vehicle manufacturer or a mechanic may be held liable.

Once liability is determined, the next step is to seek compensation for your damages. With the right evidence and legal representation, you can reach a favorable outcome that includes compensation for injuries or hardship you experienced.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be eligible for several types of compensation. The damages available depend on the severity of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your life. Some common damages include:

• Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.

• Lost wages: If you missed work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost income and reduced earning capacity.

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and trauma from the accident can be factored into your claim.

• Property damage: If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacements.

• Wrongful death damages: If a loved one was killed in a rideshare accident, surviving family members may be able to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Getting full compensation often requires dealing with multiple insurance providers, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. However, a solid understanding of the ins and outs of insurance can help you move forward with greater confidence.

How Rideshare Insurance Works

Rideshare companies provide varying levels of insurance coverage depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. Understanding these coverage periods can help determine what insurance policies may apply to your case.

• Period 0: If the driver isn’t logged into the rideshare app, their personal auto insurance is the only coverage available.

• Period 1: When the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride request, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage.

• Period 2: If the driver has accepted a ride request but hasn’t picked up the passenger yet, the rideshare company’s insurance coverage increases.

• Period 3: Once a passenger is in the car, the highest level of coverage applies until the ride is complete.

Because different insurance policies may come into play, it’s important to understand how to handle insurance claims after rideshare accidents. Fortunately, turning to the help of an attorney who listens and cares can give you the guidance you’re looking for.