This is the next article in my series on suing Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare companies in Peoria, Illinois. My last article discussed bringing suit after being assaulted by a rideshare driver. While rideshare companies take steps to screen their drivers, it is impossible for them to ensure that the occasional bad apple does not slip through. The good thing is that passengers who are assaulted will have legal recourse. After contacting law enforcement, it is important to speak with an attorney if you have been the victim of an assault. In this article I will discuss the importance of retaining an experienced lawyer in such matters. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my Peoria office today to schedule an initial consultation.
It is strongly suggested that, if you have been harmed in a rideshare accident, that you retain counsel who is experienced in dealing with corporate defendants. It is important to remember that such companies tend to have legions of lawyers. They may attempt to use their vast resources to drag the matter out in hope that the victim will accept a “lowball” settlement in order to simply get the matter over with. By retaining an experienced attorney to handle the matter, you increase the chances that counsel will recognize such efforts. They can then take steps to move the matter along. Such steps can include cutting off negotiations and filing a lawsuit sooner. They can also include filing any necessary Motions with the Court to move a lawsuit, which has already been filed, along. Firms who are versed in handling such cases, in my experience, tend to be more aggressive in moving the matter along.
It is also advised that you retain an attorney with the resources necessary to see such a case through to completion. Given that an injury lawyer fronts all the costs of litigation, and does not get paid unless they win the case, the attorney must be prepared to litigate the matter for several years without compensation. While ethically questionable, it is not uncommon for attorneys to accept a large scale injury case even though they may not be prepared to litigate the matter over several years. This can result in the attorney withdrawing from the case before completion, which can put the client into a bad position. It can also result in an attorney urging the client to accept a settlement just to put an end to the case (again, while unethical, this does sometimes happen). When selecting a firm to assist you, I suggest ensuring that the firm devotes a substantial amount of its practice to personal injury law and that it has handled cases against corporate defendants.
Finally, it is important to retain an attorney who will be in regular communication with you as the matter moves forward. By staying in regular contact with the client, a lawyer can be kept up to date in regards to the client’s treatment and other situations which they may be facing. This helps the attorney to ensure that the client’s rights are protected.
If you or a family member have been injured in a rideshare accident then contact my office today to speak with a Peoria injury lawyer. My office handles cases against Uber or Lyft and we understand that this is an important time in your life. We will promptly return your phone calls, will quickly respond to your emails, and will ensure that you are kept up to date as to the status of the matter. Contact us online or by telephone today. Our firm also serves clients in the Illinois cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington.
