In recent years, Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing services have become popular methods of transportation in Illinois. Like all drivers, rideshare operators must abide by applicable traffic laws. In addition, ridesharing companies are subject to specific rules and regulations regarding passenger safety. Those injured while riding in a vehicle operated by Uber may not be sure how to proceed. Rideshare company accidents are unique and raise questions about who should ultimately be responsible to compensate the victim. The answer to these questions depends upon the specific facts of the case. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights. If you have been injured in an accident by a ridesharing driver, it is imperative to seek legal representation immediately. Damon Young is a Peoria lawyer handling cases which involve Uber or Lyft. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Illinois personal injury lawyer representing Peoria and Bloomington residents injured by an Uber driver
When a driver violates traffic laws or operates their vehicle in a reckless way, that driver is typically held responsible for the event and obligated to compensate victims for the damages suffered as a result. If the defendant is driving their personal vehicle, their insurance company may cover some or all of the damages. On the other hand, if the at-fault driver works for a rideshare business, such as Uber or Lyft, the company’s insurance may be responsible. This will depend upon a variety of facts, including whether:
- The injured party was a passenger in the Uber, the driver of another car hit by the Uber, or a pedestrian bystander
- The driver was actively carrying a passenger at the time the accident occurred
- The driver was logged into the Uber app and seeking a passenger at the time the accident occurred
- The driver was operating their vehicle personally, without actively acting as a rideshare driver
Which insurance company will cover the damages will be directly dependent upon which of these circumstances existed at the time of the accident.
Also, similar to commercial vehicle accidents, crashes involving Uber may result in the company itself being held liable for the driver’s actions. While Uber drivers are technically considered independent contractors, if it can be proven that Uber engaged in negligent hiring, negligent training, or knowingly retaining an unsafe driver, it may be possible to make a claim against the company directly. A personal injury attorney with experience in these cases will contact the company’s insurance carrier regardless of the circumstances pending a complete investigation. Knowledgeable counsel will also request copies of personnel records, background checks, phone and text records, and GPS information as part of a thorough review. It is imperative that victims of an Uber-related accident contact an attorney as soon as possible after the crash occurs. This will allow the lawyer to request and preserve all relevant records from the police, the company, the driver, and all potential witnesses.
Damon Young is a Peoria injury lawyer assisting Illinois residents in Uber accident cases. Damon has represented clients in Central Illinois since 2003. Once retained, he will notify the appropriate insurance companies that he is representing you and handle communications with the adjusters on your behalf. He will then begin accumulating evidence to demonstrate that the driver was at fault for the accident and that you suffered damages as a result of the incident. Damon will work with the necessary experts, including accident reconstructionists, physicians, and others to establish liability and estimate the financial impact of the crash on the victim and their family. If he is unable to negotiate favorable settlement terms, Damon will not hesitate to sue the driver and the company directly as appropriate. Our firm prides itself on providing quality service and we are ready to assist you.
Lawyer pursuing Peoria area claims against Uber and its drivers
Our office understands that serious injuries from Uber accidents can be disruptive and sometimes devastating to the victims and their families. Medical bills can quickly accumulate and financial stress can build while a case is pending. That is why our attorney works directly with healthcare providers to delay or prevent negative financial consequences from bill collectors during the pendency of the case. He is responsive to client questions and concerns throughout the case and is determined to maximize his clients’ recovery. If you need assistance, contact our office today to schedule a free initial consultation.
In addition to Peoria, our lawyer also serves clients in the Illinois cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington.
