Rideshare Accident Lawyer Chicago

Over the past decade, the use of rideshare services has skyrocketed. One study revealed that 35 percent of Americans had used a rideshare service like Lyft or Uber. Instead of hailing a cab, riders have the option of using apps to summon transportation to their location and take them where they want to go. 

While these services are a modern convenience, they have some downsides. One significant downside is traffic accidents. Since 2011, ridesharing services have increased traffic fatalities by as much as two to three percent in the U.S. These accidents result in an average of 1,100 deaths annually and cost between $5.33 billion to $13.24 billion. If you were recently involved in a rideshare accident as a passenger or another driver, seeking representation from a seasoned rideshare accident lawyer in Chicago can maximize your compensation.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare drivers can cause accidents the same way other drivers cause accidents, such as drowsy, distracted, or impaired driving, or lack of vehicle maintenance. However, the nature of rideshare driving makes accidents more likely due to:

• Distraction: Rideshare drivers are constantly looking at their phones. They look at maps, use navigation, and use their rideshare platform app to find the next riders. This creates a significant distraction.
• Speeding: The faster a rideshare driver can take a passenger where they want to go, the more rides they can provide. More rides equals more money. Drivers are often in a hurry to drop off their current passengers so they can pick up new ones, and in the process, they are speeding. 
• Drowsiness: For many rideshare drivers, driving is their second job. They work a full-time job and then give rides on evenings or weekends when they are off. While it may be a great way to earn some extra money, it also can increase the number of drowsy or fatigued drivers on the road. In fact, a recent study suggests that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drinking and driving.

All of these actions point towards driver negligence. When a negligent driver causes an injury accident, those injured are entitled to compensation. A seasoned rideshare accident attorney in Chicago can help them file a claim for that compensation.

Do Rideshare Drivers Have Insurance?

Being in an accident with a rideshare driver can cause confusion and disputes over whose insurance should cover the damages. Insurance coverage often depends on the status of the rideshare driver when the accident happened. If they were using the rideshare platform, they likely have some coverage under that entity. If they were not on the platform, their own personal insurance is supposed to cover the damages. When you hire a rideshare accident lawyer in Chicago, they can examine all the potential insurance policies involved to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Skilled Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Chicago Today

Suppose you or someone you love recently sustained an injury in a rideshare accident. In that case, you probably have many questions and concerns. Don’t hesitate to call a skilled rideshare accident attorney in Chicago. At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, we offer no-obligation case consultations to get your claim started. Contact us today to schedule yours.