Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Tacoma

While rideshare services provide convenience and flexibility, they also carry risks. If you were involved in a rideshare crash, a Tacoma personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim.

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can leave passengers, drivers, and even pedestrians with serious injuries. A rideshare accident lawyer in Tacoma from Puget Law Group can help you obtain a fair settlement for your losses.

What a Tacoma Rideshare Accident Lawyer Can Do

In the aftermath of a rideshare crash, a Tacoma rideshare accident lawyer can:

• Gather evidence: A lawyer can collect accident reports, witness statements, and medical records to strengthen your case.
• Communicate with insurers: An attorney can handle correspondence with adjusters to prevent the minimization or denial of your claim.
• Negotiate settlements: A lawyer can work to secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other losses.
• Represent you in court: An attorney can advocate for you in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary.

Types of Compensation You Can Recover

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses: You can recover compensation for hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages: You can claim compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries.
• Property damage: You can be reimbursed for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings.
• Pain and suffering: You can seek damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries affect your future ability to work, you can recover compensation for the accident’s long-term financial impact.

Our Tacoma rideshare accident attorneys can identify the damages you qualify for and help you recover them.

Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Accidents in Washington

In Washington State, personal injury claims generally must be filed within three years of the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation. Our Tacoma rideshare accident lawyers can help make sure you file your claim on time.

Insurance Coverage for Rideshare Accidents

Insurance coverage for rideshare accidents is more complex than standard car insurance. The coverage that applies to your case will depend on whether the driver was:

• Offline: The driver’s personal auto insurance typically applies when they are not actively accepting rides.
• Online but without a passenger: Rideshare companies generally provide limited liability coverage, which may include medical bills and property damage.
• Transporting a passenger: Higher levels of coverage usually apply in this scenario.

A Tacoma rideshare accident attorney can determine which policy applies to your case.

How Liability Works in Rideshare Accidents

Determining who is at fault for a rideshare accident can be challenging since multiple parties may share blame. Parties who can potentially be held liable include:

• Rideshare driver: If the driver was negligent or violated traffic laws, they may be partially or fully liable.
• Rideshare company: Uber or Lyft can be held responsible under certain circumstances, especially if their policies or hiring practices contributed to the accident.
• Other drivers: If another vehicle caused the crash, that driver’s insurance may cover your damages.
• Vehicle manufacturer: In rare cases, a defective vehicle component can contribute to a crash.

Evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and eyewitness accounts can often be used to determine fault.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents often occur for reasons similar to traditional car crashes. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving: Drivers using phones, GPS, or other devices may fail to pay attention to the road.
• Speeding or reckless driving: When in a rush to complete trips quickly, drivers may exceed speed limits or ignore traffic laws.
• Fatigue: Rideshare drivers working long hours can experience fatigue, impairing their reaction times.
• Poor vehicle maintenance: Worn brakes, tire failures, or malfunctioning lights can contribute to accidents.
• Weather conditions: Rain, fog, or icy roads increase the likelihood of collisions.

Preventing Rideshare Accidents

While you cannot control other drivers, these safety measures can reduce your risk of getting into rideshare accidents:

• Choose reputable drivers: Review driver ratings and ride history before accepting a trip.
• Use seat belts: Always buckle up, regardless of whether you are in the front or back seat.
• Avoid distractions: Encourage the driver to stay focused, and avoid unnecessary distractions yourself.
• Be cautious in adverse weather: Slow down and adjust your driving in rain, fog, or icy conditions.
• Know your route: Being aware of your surroundings can help you identify unsafe driving behaviors early.

Get Help from a Rideshare Accident Attorney in Tacoma

If you have been searching for a “Tacoma rideshare accident lawyer near me,” Puget Law Group has you covered. An experienced attorney from our team can take on your case, help you put together a strong, evidence-backed claim, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation with a lawyer.