Pensacola Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Fighting For Rideshare Accident Victims Throughout the Florida Panhandle

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way we get around. While they offer convenience, they can also present unique challenges when accidents occur.

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Pensacola, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages. The Watson Firm, PLLC is here to provide you with the experienced legal representation you need to navigate the complexities of such cases. Our team of experienced attorneys is prepared to fight for you and your family's best interests.

Call (850) 607-2929 or contact us online today to schedule your case evaluation with our rideshare accident attorney in Pensacola.

Who Is Liable in a Florida Rideshare Accident?

Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be more complex than typical car accidents. Various parties may be responsible for your damages and injuries, including:

• Rideshare Driver: The rideshare driver may bear responsibility for accidents caused by their negligence or recklessness.
• Other Drivers: If another driver caused the accident, their insurance may come into play.
• Rideshare Company: Uber and Lyft provide commercial insurance coverage, but the extent of their liability can vary depending on the circumstances.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Your own insurance policy may include this coverage, which can be useful when other parties involved lack adequate insurance.

In some cases, multiple parties could share responsibility for a victim's damages and injuries.

Tactics Employed by Rideshare Companies

Rideshare companies may attempt various tactics to limit their liability and payouts, such as:

• Deactivation of Driver: Rideshare companies may deactivate drivers who've been involved in accidents to avoid responsibility.
• Independent Contractor Status: They may argue that their drivers are independent contractors, not employees, which can affect liability.
• Insurance Complexities: Rideshare company insurance policies have coverage limits and depend on the driver's status (app on, app off, or with a passenger).

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident

After a rideshare accident, it's essential to take specific steps:

1. Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the local police or relevant authorities.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Obtain medical care for any injuries, as documentation is critical for your case.
3. Collect Evidence: Take photos, gather witness information, and document the scene.
4. Contact an Attorney: Reach out to an experienced rideshare accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Some of the most common injuries sustained in these accidents include:

• Whiplash: Sudden jolts can cause the neck to whip back and forth, resulting in soft tissue injuries. Whiplash can result in significant pain and limited mobility.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Concussions and other TBIs can happen when the head strikes an object or is violently shaken. These injuries can long-term affect cognitive function, memory, and overall quality of life.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other bones. Recovery from broken bones can be long and often involves extensive medical treatment.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries are often life-altering and require long-term care and rehabilitation.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, debris, and impact with objects inside the vehicle can cause deep cuts and lacerations, leading to scarring and potential infections.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs, leading to internal bleeding and other serious complications that may not be immediately apparent.
• Psychological Injuries: The trauma of a rideshare accident can lead to emotional and psychological problems like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

These damages typically include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical costs related to the accident, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. This also covers reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job or if your ability to work is permanently affected.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. This is a non-economic damage and can be more challenging to quantify, but it is an essential component of your claim.
• Property Damage: If personal property was damaged in the accident, such as your vehicle or personal belongings, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: Costs associated with rehabilitation services, which includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, can be included in your claim.
• Loss of Consortium: If the accident has negatively impacted your relationship with your spouse or family, you could be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and support.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the rideshare driver’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages could be granted to penalize the driver and deter similar behavior.

How Our Rideshare Accident Attorneys Can Help

Our rideshare accident attorneys at The Watson Firm, PLLC are well-versed in the tactics used by these companies and know how to counteract them effectively. We can:

• Investigate: We'll conduct a thorough investigation to establish liability and build a compelling case.
• Negotiate: We'll negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Litigate: If necessary, we'll take your case to court to fight for your rights.
• Maximize Compensation: We'll work to secure damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a rideshare accident can take on a victim and their family. Our goal is to secure full and fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Why Choose Us?

When you choose The Watson Firm, PLLC, for your rideshare accident case, you can expect:

• Experience: Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in personal injury cases.
• Personalized Attention: We prioritize understanding your unique situation to provide tailored legal solutions.
• Commitment: We genuinely care about our clients and are dedicated to helping them through challenging times.
• Local Knowledge: As a local firm in Pensacola, we have in-depth knowledge of Florida's laws and regulations.

We are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you need to recover from your rideshare accident. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice and recovery. Call (850) 607-2929 to schedule a consultation with a dedicated Pensacola rideshare accident lawyer.

Contact The Watson Firm, PLLC today to get started with our Pensacola rideshare accident lawyers.