Pittsburgh Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA

If you’ve been injured while using a rideshare service in Allegheny County, it’s important to speak to an experienced Pittsburgh rideshare accidents lawyer as soon as possible.

The popularity of commuting through public transit methods and rideshare companies continues to grow. These options offer a way to get around without having to worry about parking or maintaining your personal vehicle. These forms of transportation can be more environmentally friendly and are often convenient. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen.

Rideshare accidents often involve multiple layers of liability that can include the rideshare driver, the company, and even other third-party drivers. Understanding how rideshare accident laws work in Pennsylvania and knowing how to file a rideshare accident claim can be the difference between a fair settlement and leaving money on the table.

If you’ve suffered an injury while using public transit or a rideshare service, the law firm of Ainsman Levine, LLC, can help you seek justice and pursue the compensation you need to help you get back on your feet. We’re dedicated to protecting your rights and maximizing the compensation you could be entitled to.

Distinguishing What Counts as a Pittsburgh Rideshare Accident Case

There’s a 4.6% increase in accident risk when using a rideshare service, according to one recent study. Rideshare accidents not only often involve multiple parties, but they can also happen in very unexpected ways, and understanding what qualifies as a Pittsburgh rideshare accident case is the first step you need to take.

Knowing which situations fall under this category can help clarify who’s liable for your injuries so you can pursue the proper legal channels for compensation. A rideshare accident can involve:

• Passengers in the rideshare vehicle
• Other drivers sharing the road
• Pedestrians or bicyclists struck by a rideshare driver
• The rideshare drivers themselves

In addition to these straightforward types of rideshare accidents, there are a few scenarios that can cause confusion, as the liability and insurance coverage in these situations can be unclear. Some of those scenarios include:

• Injuries during pick-up or drop-off
• Accidents that occur while the driver is searching for rides
• Injuries that occur when a rider is entering or exiting the vehicle

In Pittsburgh, areas with heavy rideshare activity, like Downtown, Oakland, Strip District, North Shore, South Side, and Lawrenceville, see frequent accidents. Because of how complicated these cases can be, and the ambiguity of insurance coverage that relies on what the driver is doing at the time of the accident, it’s important to consult the team at Ainsman Levine, LLC, as soon as possible.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Pittsburgh

Rideshare accidents can happen for any number of reasons, but most of them all stem from the same issue: They’re preventable. Understanding the common causes can help when it comes to figuring out the fault to start untangling the complicated web of liability. Some common causes include:

• Distracted driving
• Fatigue
• Navigational errors
• Weather conditions
• Aggressive driving

By consulting with a Pittsburgh rideshare accidents attorney from Ainsman Levine, LLC, victims can make sure these factors are properly documented, which is essential for any rideshare accident claim.

Hire a Rideshare Accidents Lawyer: Understanding Rideshare Liability And Processes

Rideshare drivers don’t have to hold a special license to operate. Most rideshare drivers are contractors who lack sufficient training for safely transporting passengers. As a result, the driver might be inexperienced and unfamiliar with your location. Rideshare drivers are also at risk of being injured by other negligent motorists while on the job.

Like any vehicle operator, a rideshare driver is required to carry insurance. Some major rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, provide liability coverage as well. If you’re injured in an accident while using a rideshare service, you need to hire a rideshare accident lawyer to help you seek compensation for your injuries.

We can thoroughly examine your case and determine if the company and driver can be held liable for your injuries. We can also help you file your claim through the rideshare company and take legal action when necessary.

Uber and Lyft in Pennsylvania: What Applies and When?

Understanding Uber and Lyft insurance in Pennsylvania can be complicated, but it’s essential if you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident. Coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash, and each scenario triggers different insurance policies, from the driver’s personal auto policy to the rideshare company’s own coverage. Some key points to note include:

• If the driver isn’t logged into the rideshare app, then the driver’s own personal car insurance policy becomes the primary coverage for your claim.
• If the driver is logged into the app, but they’re not driving a customer, the rideshare company needs to carry a special level of insurance under PA law. This includes at least $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Also, first-party medical benefits apply, which means all medical bills are covered, regardless of who caused the accident.
• If the driver has accepted a trip or if they’re transporting a passenger, PA law requires that the rideshare company have a minimum of $500,000 coverage for bodily injury, death, and property damage. In addition, depending on the situation, that coverage can come from the driver, the rideshare company, or a combination of both.

Whether the driver was offline, waiting for a request, or actively transporting a customer, knowing which insurance policy is responsible can make a big difference in your case. The attorneys at Ainsman Levine, LLC, have extensive experience when it comes to handling these complicated insurance issues, and we work to make sure your rideshare accident claim is positioned to maximize your potential compensation.

Compensation You Could Be Entitled To

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, you could be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, and our Pittsburgh rideshare accident attorneys can help determine the full scope of your claim. Depending on the facts of your case, you could be entitled to receive:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Psychological trauma

At Ainsman Levine, LLC, we carefully evaluate your situation, pursue all available avenues for compensation, and fight to secure the maximum settlement that you’re entitled to under Pennsylvania law.

Investigating Public Transport Accidents

If you rely on public transportation, you expect to arrive safely at your destination. Specific laws regulate buses and trains. Unfortunately, accidents can happen regardless of training, rules, and regulations.

Public transport accidents can occur due to several factors. Common reasons include:

• Weather conditions
• Poor maintenance
• Other neglectful motorists
• Pedestrian interference
• Driver negligence
• Debris
• Driver fatigue
• Faulty equipment

These accidents can impact many people at once and result in injuries that can vary from minor cuts and bruises to head, spine, and neck injuries.

FAQs

How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Claim in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, the amount of time you have to file a rideshare claim is dictated by the personal injury statute of limitations. Generally, that means you have to file your claim within two years of the date of the accident. However, if a government entity or public property is involved, different deadlines could apply.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pittsburgh Rideshare Accident?

Immediately after a Pittsburgh rideshare accident, you should call 911 so that you can get medical treatment and create a police report. Both are critical if you want to pursue compensation. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to make sure that you allow Emergency Medical Services to examine you and then follow up with a medical provider as soon as possible.

What Evidence Should I Collect After a Rideshare Accident?

After a rideshare accident, you need to document the scene and all expenses related to the accident. If you’re able, take photos of the vehicles involved, the road conditions, and any visible injuries. Next, gather the name of the rideshare driver, the license plate, insurance information, and record the contact details of any witnesses. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and pay stubs, as well as receipts for any repairs.

How Long Does a Pittsburgh Rideshare Accident Claim Usually Take?

The length of time it takes to resolve a Pittsburgh rideshare accident claim can vary depending on things like the severity of the injuries, how complicated liability is, and how willing the insurance company is to negotiate. It’s possible for some cases to settle in a few months, while cases involving contested liability that go to court could take a year or more.

Come Discuss Your Situation With Our Attorneys

If you have been injured, contact us today. Located in downtown Pittsburgh, our personal injury lawyers serve victims throughout Western and Central Pennsylvania.