Newport News Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Seeking Justice for Victims of Lyft & Uber Accidents

Rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber have transformed the world of transportation. While ridesharing offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around, rental transportation methods are no different than any other vehicle. When accidents happen, it’s imperative to seek fair compensation for expensive medical bills, lost earnings, and more. That’s where our rideshare accident lawyers come in. 

At Larry King Law, we understand how confusing and overwhelming it is to navigate the legal complexities of liability in a rideshare accident, especially in the aftermath of a serious injury. If you suffered a wrongful injury in an Uber or Lyft accident in Newport News, our firm is here to demand the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve. Our advocates have over 50 years of experience and extensive knowledge of Virginia personal injury law to fight for justice on your behalf, freeing you to focus on making a swift recovery. 

If you were harmed in a rideshare accident, seeking sound counsel is crucial to pursue justice. Call (888) 700-4151 to schedule a free consultation. 

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident?

If you were wrongfully injured in an Uber or Lyft, establishing the liability of negligent parties in the rideshare accident is critical to recovering compensation. Depending on the circumstances of your case, various parties may be liable for your injuries. Common examples of negligent parties include:  

• The rideshare driver: If the driver’s negligence caused the accident, they may be held liable for your injuries.
• Another negligent driver: If another vehicle caused the accident through reckless or careless driving, they may be held responsible for your injuries.
• Rideshare company: Ridesharing companies have a duty to ensure the safety of their customers. If their policies or procedures contributed to the accident, they may be liable.
• Vehicle manufacturer: If the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle, the manufacturer may be liable for your injuries.

Regardless of who was liable in the rideshare accident, it’s important to seek swift counsel from an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Larry King Law, our skilled advocates can conduct a thorough investigation and identify all possible sources of liability in your case to maximize the damages available to you. 

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Like any car accident, rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles can occur for a variety of reasons. Here are some common causes of rideshare accidents: 

• Distracted driving: If the rideshare driver was operating the vehicle while texting, calling, eating, or engaging in other distractions, this can lead to an accident. 
• Fatigued driving: Many rideshare drivers work part-time in addition to full-time jobs, increasing the risk of accidents due to burnout and drowsy driving. 
• Stopping in dangerous locations: Rideshare vehicles are constantly dropping off and picking up passengers, prompting many employees to pull over in bicycle lanes and other dangerous locations. This can impede surrounding traffic, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
• Improper maintenance: While taxi cabs must be regularly inspected and maintained, the maintenance requirements for Uber and Lyft vehicles are less stringent. If the rideshare vehicle isn’t properly maintained, this can cause accidents due to malfunctioning parts or equipment. 

Rideshare Driver Insurance Requirements in Virginia

Under Virginia law, rideshare vehicles are required to meet state minimum liability coverage levels. These insurance requirements include: 

• $20,000 property damage liability
• $30,000 bodily injury liability per person
• $60,000 bodily injury liability per accident

Recoverable Damages in Uber & Lyft Accidents

If you were injured in a rideshare accident, Virginia law allows you to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages compensate for financial losses, such as: 

• Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, doctor’s visits, prescription medication, and any other costs related to your medical treatment.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning potential.
• Property damage: If your personal property, such as a phone or laptop, was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.

On the other hand, non-economic damages compensate for non-financial losses, such as: 

• Pain and suffering: This covers physical and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries limit your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment.
• Disfigurement or scarring: This type of compensation may be awarded in cases where the accident resulted in permanent disfigurement or scarring.

At Larry King Law, our skilled rideshare accident attorneys can thoroughly evaluate your claim to determine the fullest extent of recoverable damages available to you. We understand how injuries from a rideshare accident can have long-lasting effects, which is why our firm is committed to seeking justice for yourself and your loved ones during this difficult time. 

4 Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

Sustaining an unexpected injury can be disorienting and stressful. Knowing which steps to take after a rideshare accident is critical for your safety, well-being, and ability to recover fair compensation. In addition to securing experienced representation from a qualified attorney, here are some essential steps to take after a rideshare accident: 

1. Take photos. In a rideshare accident claim, photographs and video footage can be invaluable evidence in your case. It’s important to take plenty of pictures of the vehicles involved, as well as road signs, stoplights, tire marks, debris, and any other relevant details from the scene of the accident.
2. Collect witness information. Make sure to request contact information from other passengers involved. Don’t assume the rideshare company will give you this information! While they may have access to it, they typically won’t disclose any information without a subpoena, potentially prolonging the investigation. 
3. Identify other motorists. Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t enough to simply exchange insurance information with other involved parties after an accident. While an insurance card can confirm the vehicle owner on the policy, it doesn’t confirm who was driving when the accident occurred. If possible, obtain a copy of the motorist's state-issued driver's license. 
4. Consult a qualified rideshare accident lawyer. Never speak with insurance companies without an attorney present! Anything you say can and will be used against you. Without sound counsel, insurance adjusters can argue that you were also at fault and potentially deny your claim. 

Aggressive Advocacy for the Wrongfully Injured

For over 50 years, our trusted attorneys at Larry King Law represented the wrongfully injured in Newport News and beyond. With a proven track record of results and millions of dollars recovered for our clients, you can rely on our firm to advocate for the maximum compensation you’re rightfully entitled to. When you work with our committed trial lawyers, you’ll benefit from our decades of litigation experience. We never hesitate to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to achieve a fair settlement, giving you peace of mind that you won’t have to settle for less than you deserve.

No one deserves to pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Contact us online to discuss your case with our award-winning lawyers.