Rideshare services throughout Lake County, IL, such as Uber and Lyft, have completely transformed how people travel. With just a few taps on a smartphone, passengers can get a ride to work, a night out, or even a quick trip to the store. But when a rideshare vehicle is involved in an accident, passengers can be left with injuries, medical bills, and confusion about what to do next.
At Michael Kawi Law, LLC, we understand how serious and frustrating and stressful these situations can be. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Lake County or anywhere in Illinois, our skilled attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and fearlessly advocate for the compensation you need and deserve. If you’ve been hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you don’t have to handle your case alone. Contact Michael Kawi Law, LLC, today for a free consultation about your injuries.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents are no different from any other car collisions, and they can happen unexpectedly. Drivers may be distracted, speeding, or not paying attention to the road. Bad weather, road conditions, and reckless drivers can also play a role. These accidents are unique because rideshare companies have insurance policies separate from those of their drivers, making it challenging to figure out who is responsible for covering your expenses and losses.
If you sustain injuries as a passenger, you might think Uber or Lyft will automatically pay your medical bills. Unfortunately, it’s not always that simple. Insurance companies often try to avoid paying victims what they are owed, and the rideshare driver’s personal insurance may not cover the accident. This is why having an experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference.
Who Pays for Your Injuries After a Rideshare Accident?
One of the most significant concerns for rideshare crash victims is who will pay for medical expenses and other costs. They are also concerned about how they will cover their bills without being able to work. The answer depends on what was happening at the time of the accident. If the rideshare driver caused the crash, the following scenarios apply.
If the rideshare driver was not actively logged into the app, then the driver’s personal insurance is responsible for covering damages.
If the driver was logged into the app but had not yet accepted a ride, then Uber or Lyft’s limited insurance coverage may apply. This means there is some coverage, but it might not be enough to pay for medical bills or lost wages fully. Victims often get caught between insurance companies who are pointing fingers at each other.
If the rideshare driver is en route to pick up a passenger or already has one in the car, Uber or Lyft offers a more comprehensive insurance policy designed to cover injuries. While this sounds like a good thing, rideshare companies and their insurers may still try to downplay your injuries or delay payments. They’re in business to make money, not to hand out fair settlements.
While these policies exist, that does not mean getting a fair payout is easy. Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible, and they may argue about who should be responsible. They use confusing terms and loopholes to avoid paying what victims deserve.
This is why having a lawyer on your side is important. We know how to deal with insurance companies and advocate for you so that you are not taken advantage of. When you have a skilled lawyer fighting for you, it levels the playing field and helps you get the financial support you need to move forward.
Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can leave passengers with serious injuries, some of which require long-term medical care. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Cuts, bruises, and soft tissue injuries
Even if your injuries seem minor initially, they can worsen over time. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately and track all doctor visits, treatments, and expenses. This documentation will help build your case and show the accident’s full impact on your life.
Why Choose Michael Kawi Law, LLC?
At Michael Kawi Law, LLC, we have seen how devastating rideshare accidents can be. Passengers trust drivers to safely get them to their destination, but the impact can be life-changing when that trust is broken. We are committed to standing up for injured passengers and demanding they are treated fairly.
We take care of the legal details so you can focus on healing. Our team will:
- Handle all communication with the insurance companies and at-fault parties
- Investigate the rideshare accident and gather evidence
- Fight to recover fair compensation for your losses and expenses
- Guide you through every step of the legal process
- Take your case to trial if no acceptable settlement is offered
Rideshare Accidents in Lake County, IL
Rideshare services are popular throughout Lake County, IL, especially in cities like Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville, and Mundelein. Whether you were injured while getting a ride to O’Hare Airport or just heading home from a night out, you have rights as a passenger. After a rideshare accident, you can recover compensation for your:
- Resulting medical expenses
- The pain and suffering brought on by the accident
- Your lost wages or lost earning capacity, depending on the severity of your injuries
Illinois law requires rideshare drivers to carry insurance, but that does not mean getting compensated is easy. If you are dealing with medical expenses and pain following an accident, let us fight for you.
Contact Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers in Lake County, IL
If you are hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you do not have to face the battle alone. Our team at Michael Kawi Law, LLC is here to help. Our rideshare accident lawyers in Lake County, IL, are ready to answer your questions, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our team today to get started with a free consultation. Let us take the stress off your shoulders while you focus on recovering.