Houston Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Lawyers Representing Victims of Rideshare Accidents in Galveston & Houston

When you step into a rideshare vehicle, you place your trust in the hands of the driver and expect a safe journey to your destination. However, when the unexpected happens and a collision occurs, that trust can be shattered, especially if injuries are sustained. In one moment, you're left to confront physical pain, psychological trauma, and the onset of numerous legal uncertainties all at once.

Our team at Fertitta & Givens provides compassionate and comprehensive legal representation to individuals who find themselves injured as a result of accidents like these. While you focus on recovery, we can devote ourselves to untangling the web of liability, insurance claims, and legal nuances that stand in the way of you and the compensation that you deserve.

Rideshare accidents often involve numerous factors, such as driver negligence, company policies, and insurance policies that vary significantly from those typically seen in traditional vehicular incidents. As such, pursuing justice and fair compensation demands a strategic approach tailored to the specifics of your case. We are prepared to guide you through the legal process with the goal of achieving a resolution that acknowledges the severity of your ordeal and the scope of your losses.

Call (346) 258-5803 to schedule a free consultation with a Houston rideshare accident attorney at Fertitta & Givens today.

What Is a Rideshare Accident?

A rideshare accident refers to any collision involving at least one driver affiliated with a rideshare company, such as Uber or Lyft, while utilizing the app's platform—whether en route to pick up a passenger, during a passenger trip, or immediately after a drop-off. 

In Texas, these types of accidents present unique legal challenges, as liability can extend beyond the driver to encompass the rideshare company due to state-imposed rideshare regulations. This distinction is critical because, depending on the driver's status within the app at the time of the incident, the applicable insurance policy and coverage limits may vary, which can significantly impact the compensation available to injured parties.

Some common forms of accidents include, but are not limited to:

• A collision between your rideshare vehicle and another car, possibly due to reckless or distracted driving
• An incident where your rideshare driver fails to yield the right of way, resulting in an accident
• Situations wherein an uninsured or underinsured driver hits the rideshare vehicle you're riding
• Accidents that occur due to the rideshare driver's insufficient vehicle maintenance, leading to tire blowouts or brake failures
• Injuries sustained while entering or exiting the rideshare vehicle due to the driver's negligence, like stopping in an unsafe location
• Incidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, or property damage due to the actions of the rideshare driver

Each of these examples presents its own set of challenges and complexities in a legal context, and we're here to help navigate them with you.

Detailed analysis is required to determine negligence and liability in accidents like these—whether it lies with the driver for not adhering to traffic laws, the rideshare company for inadequate driver vetting processes, or even a third party whose actions contributed to the incident. 

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can result in a variety of injuries, some of which may not be immediately visible or apparent, including:

• Whiplash and neck injuries 
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) 
• Broken bones and fractures
• Lacerations and bruises
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Internal bleeding
• Psychological trauma

The nature and severity of these injuries and others vary widely. If you've been involved in a rideshare accident, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention to identify and address any injuries, visible or hidden.

What to Do if You Are in a Rideshare Accident

Being involved in a rideshare collision can be a confusing and frightening experience, but knowing what steps to take immediately after an incident can help you navigate a stressful situation more confidently.

First, prioritize your safety and well-being. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you don't notice any immediate signs of injury, it's crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. This will also produce an official record of your health immediately following the collision.

Next, notify the authorities. Call 911 to report the accident and cooperate fully with law enforcement when they arrive at the scene. They will document the incident, which can be helpful later if you decide to pursue a legal claim.

Third, gather as much information as you can. This includes the rideshare driver's name, contact information, and insurance details. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information as well. Take pictures of the accident scene, including any visible injuries, damage to vehicles, and any other relevant details.

It's also important to report the accident to the rideshare company. Both Uber and Lyft, for example, have procedures in place for reporting accidents that occur during a ride.

Finally, seek legal advice. Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be complex, given the involvement of multiple parties and insurance companies. Our legal professionals at Fertitta & Givens can help you understand your rights and options moving forward.

These steps may vary depending on the specifics of the accident. The most important thing is to ensure your safety and health and to take actions that protect your interests in the long run.

Fertitta & Givens Is on Your Side

The evolving legal landscape of rideshare accidents requires a proactive approach to legal advocacy. As new regulations and policies come into effect, legal practitioners must stay up-to-date and adapt their strategies accordingly. 

Fertitta & Givens is committed to remaining at the forefront of these developments, continually expanding our knowledge and experience in this burgeoning area of law. In so doing, we are able to provide you with effective and informed guidance and representation.

Schedule a free, no-obligation case consultation with our Houston rideshare accident lawyers by calling (346) 258-5803 or contacting us online.