Alexandria Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare Car Accidents in the DMV

Rideshare accidents are some of the most complex and confusing types of collisions. When you’re involved in a rideshare accident, whether as a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Various issues often arise, such as who is at fault, insurance liability, and the complex nature of rideshare companies, which can make it challenging to reach a settlement.

That’s where an experienced car accident attorney comes in. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we have decades of experience in representing car accident victims, including rideshare accidents. We represent injured people in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC!

If you were in a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to know what steps to take next to protect your health, your rights, and your finances. Call the Rideshare Accident Lawyers at Blaszkow Legal for a free consultation: 703-879-5910

Understanding Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can happen suddenly and leave you confused about what to do next. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare accidents often involve multiple parties, such as the passengers, the driver, the rideshare company, and any other drivers involved, which can lead to complex insurance issues. Some common causes of rideshare accidents include:

• Driver negligence: Rideshare drivers who fail to pay proper attention to the road or engage in reckless driving behavior.

• Distracted driving: Drivers distracted by their GPS, phone apps, or passenger conversations.

• Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris can cause accidents.

• Defective vehicles: Mechanical failures or malfunctions in the rideshare vehicle.

• Other drivers: Reckless behavior from other drivers on the road.

• Inclement weather: Rain, snow, or ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.

• Fatigue: Drivers who drive for extended periods without rest can be as dangerous as those driving under the influence.

In Virginia, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are required to provide substantial insurance coverage for their drivers, passengers, and any third parties injured during a ride. However, determining which coverage applies can be complicated.

It is critical to understand how the causes of a rideshare accident and resulting coverage liability could impact your ability to recover compensation. Our knowledgeable attorneys at Blaszkow Legal, PLLC can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

According to a report by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, rideshare accidents have been steadily increasing. When these crashes occur, all parties involved can suffer serious injuries. Some of the most common types of injuries suffered by victims of rideshare accidents include:

• Lacerations

• Muscle strains, sprains, tears, and contusions

• Burns

• Broken or fractured bones

• Head and neck injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

• Spinal cord damage

• Internal organ damage or internal bleeding

• Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

If you or a loved one suffered any injuries as the result of someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to financial compensation. Speak with an experienced rideshare accident attorney at Blaszkow Legal, PLLC to discuss your case.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you were involved in a rideshare accident, it’s important to take certain steps to ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. These steps include:

1. Seek medical help: It’s crucial to get a thorough medical evaluation, even if you feel fine immediately after the accident. Remember that your health and well-being should always be the top priority, and some injuries may not be readily apparent without expert medical evaluation.

2. Document everything: Document the accident as accurately and thoroughly as possible. Take photographs or videos of the rideshare vehicle, the other vehicles involved, the accident scene, and any visible injuries you may have sustained. Gather the contact and insurance information of any other drivers, as well as the contact information of any eyewitnesses.

3. Contact an experienced attorney: Before contacting your insurance company about the accident, reach out to an experienced rideshare accident attorney. Often, what you say to your insurance company can be used against you when determining fault or when seeking compensation. An attorney can handle communication with insurance adjusters on your behalf and advocate for the best outcome for your case.

4. Contact your insurance: Once you’ve spoken with an attorney, call your insurance. Some insurance companies may want to take a statement (beyond the mere facts of the collision). Always consult with your attorney before providing information to your insurance company, and be sure never to admit fault.

Important Considerations for Virginia Rideshare Car Accident Claims

Determining Fault

In Virginia, determining fault in a rideshare accident involves identifying the negligence of the parties involved in the accident. Negligence can include reckless driving, violating traffic laws, distracted driving, and other careless behaviors.

Virginia follows the doctrine of contributory negligence, meaning that if a victim is found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any damages. This makes it crucial to determine the fault of each party accurately.

In rideshare accidents, the responsibility may lie with the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even the rideshare company if, for example, a vehicle’s maintenance issue contributed to the crash.

Remember that your claim is against the negligent party – not their insurance company!

Insurance Coverage

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger.

It may be necessary to determine whether the driver was “online” and engaged in an official rideshare activity at the time of the accident to establish the applicable insurance coverage.

Statute of Limitations

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit for a rideshare accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. You must file your claim within this two-year window or you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

However, the statute of limitations can vary depending on the specifics of your case, such as whether the claim involves an injured driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist. If the accident results in a fatality, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is also two years, beginning from the date of the deceased person’s death.

Navigating rideshare accidents often requires the help of a seasoned rideshare accident attorney who can analyze the case, negotiate with insurance companies, and make sure the rights and interests of the injured parties are adequately protected.

Compensation After Lyft Accident

Part of receiving compensation after a Lyft accident is proving liability. Rideshare accidents occur for the same reasons that other car collisions happen. There are many forms of driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, moving violations, and other illegal or intoxicated driving behaviors. Fault for your accident may point to the rideshare driver or another driver on the road who hit you. If you were writing as a passenger, it is unlikely that you are going to be found at fault unless you had interfered with the driver’s ability to control their vehicle. What we can do is help you gather evidence and prove exactly what happened. After you have evidence gathered, you can proceed with initiating a claim for compensation against the rideshare company or the driver’s insurance.

Why Lyft Drivers Must Carry Insurance

Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, which means that they are not technically employees for the company. This is a way for the company to create some distance between themselves and liability when it comes to accidents. These rideshare companies hope that the driver has their own insurance that would cover losses in the event of an accident. Lyft drivers must have insurance if they are going to operate under the business of a rideshare company. However, there is the option to file a claim for compensation directly with Lyft. If you need help with this, please contact us today so we can make sure that you’re taking all the steps that you need to get maximum compensation.

Why Medical Care Is Important

It is important to get medical attention after a rideshare accident not only for your health, but also for your compensation eligibility. If you do not have medical documentation that supports your injury claims, it can be more difficult to get payment back for your losses. It is strongly advised that you get a medical examination even if you don’t have any symptoms yet for injuries. Despite leaving the scene of the accident without any visible injuries, this does not mean that your body did not sustain some degree of damage. Seeking medical care is essential to your health and your claim. If you need further help with this, our Alexandria, VA lyft accident lawyer is ready to hear from you.

Contact Us Now For Consultation

Aftermath of a rideshare accent can be difficult to manage alone. This is especially true when you consider that rideshare companies are likely to try to avoid liability by using various strategies or ignoring the claim altogether. But when you have a legal team representing your situation, these companies are more likely to negotiate fairly and respond to your claim. Our team is ready to get to work for you as soon as we speak with you. Reach out to Blaszkow Legal, PLLC for a consultation appointment so we can learn more about what has happened and get started right away.

What To Do After Uber Accident

Put your safety first. The Uber driver should move the vehicle out of the way from traffic to a safe area, but don’t hesitate to remind them if they don’t do so. Pull off to the shoulder of the road or out of the flow of traffic. Examine yourself and others for injuries and call 911 so that an ambulance and an officer can arrive to help. If anyone has been seriously injured, request medical attention. Even if you are not visibly injured, it is a good idea to have the ambulance personnel examine you anyway. You may be in a state of shock and are not aware of the extent of your injuries just yet. The officer can file a police report of what happened which you can get a copy of in the days to follow. Gather evidence in the form of photographs and video footage, and exchange information with the driver. Once all these things are done, contact our team so that we can start working for you and your compensation.

Why You Must See A Doctor

It is very common for accident victims to not have any symptoms or pain hours or days after the accident, only to suddenly have severe pain and discomfort. Additionally, not seeking medical care right away can also hurt your case. By having a paper trail of medical treatments, this is powerful evidence that can influence the outcome. As our Alexandria, VA uber accident lawyer explains, visiting a doctor ensures that your health is taken care of and that you have evidence to support your injury claims. If you do not have medical care coverage and are concerned about the costs of visiting a doctor, contact us so that we can get you treatment. But do not delay in getting emergency care if that is what you need. We can work to get you payment back for your costs. We are ready to speak with you today about your situation.

Why Rideshare Accidents Are Complicated

Uber and rideshare accidents are more nuanced to handle due to the fact that the drivers are hired by the company but are not technically employees. This creates some distance in liability for the rideshare company, since the driver is responsible for carrying insurance that would cover anyone in the event of an accident. These rideshare companies do often have claims you have filed directly to them requesting coverage after an accident. However, actually receiving this compensation is more difficult than it may seem. Contact us today if you need assistance with this.

Contact Our Team Today

Our team has handled many rideshare accident cases. We understand that these tend to be more complicated than your typical car accidents, because it involves a third party company. Because Uber or Lyft hires their drivers as independent contractors, it can get a little bit confusing when it comes to identifying liability and who should provide compensation. If you have questions about this, please don’t hesitate to contact us so that we can get you the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, property damage, and other losses. If you’re ready to get help, our team at Blaskow Legal, PLLC is prepared to assist you today.

Common Causes Of Rideshare Accidents

Our Alexandria, VA Lyft accident lawyer knows that when people rely on rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, they expect a safe and convenient experience. Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we’ve worked with many clients who were hurt in rideshare crashes, and we’ve seen the same patterns emerge time and time again. We offer free consultations, so give us a call today. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most common causes of these incidents.

• Distracted Driving. One of the leading causes of rideshare accidents is driver distraction. Rideshare drivers often rely heavily on their phones for navigation, accepting new rides, and communicating with passengers. This split attention increases the risk of missing a red light, failing to yield, or reacting too slowly to sudden changes in traffic.
• Fatigue. Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive late at night to make ends meet. Driving while tired slows reaction times and affects judgment, creating conditions similar to impaired driving. Fatigue is especially common among drivers who work multiple jobs or drive during overnight shifts.
• Speeding. Speed limits exist for a reason, and exceeding them puts everyone at risk. Some drivers speed to complete more trips and earn more money. Others may misjudge traffic or time constraints. Regardless of the reason, speeding remains a top factor in rideshare-related crashes.
• Unsafe Lane Changes. We’ve handled many cases involving accidents caused by sudden or improper lane changes. Rideshare drivers may quickly change lanes to make a turn or pick up a passenger, without checking blind spots or signaling properly. This can lead to sideswipe collisions or force other drivers to brake suddenly.
• Failure to Yield. Rideshare drivers often face unfamiliar streets and heavy traffic, which can make it difficult to follow the rules of the road. Failing to yield at intersections, roundabouts, or crosswalks is a common issue, especially in busy downtown areas.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance. Our Alexandria Lyft accident lawyer knows that some rideshare drivers use their own cars without regular inspections. Worn brakes, bald tires, or broken taillights all increase the risk of an accident. Although platforms like Uber and Lyft require basic standards, they don’t always catch everything, especially if drivers skip maintenance to save money.
• Impaired Driving. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol remains a serious problem, even among rideshare drivers. Although the major platforms have policies in place, those rules depend on drivers being honest and passengers reporting problems. Impairment, even mild, can dramatically impact driving ability.
• Inexperience or Poor Driving Skills. Not every rideshare driver is a seasoned professional. Some may have limited experience behind the wheel or poor driving habits. A lack of familiarity with local traffic patterns, aggressive driving, and difficulty handling stressful situations can all lead to dangerous outcomes.
• Road Conditions and Weather. Bad weather and poorly maintained roads can increase the chances of an accident. Potholes, limited visibility, and slippery surfaces require caution. Rideshare drivers, especially those unfamiliar with an area, may not adjust their driving to suit these conditions.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s important to protect your rights and take the next step toward recovering compensation. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we help people who’ve been hurt in crashes caused by negligent rideshare drivers. We have over 40 years of experience with personal injury cases and are ready to help you with your claim. Reach out today to our Alexandria Lyft accident lawyer to learn how we can help you move forward.

Ways To Prepare For Your Uber Accident Lawyer Meeting

Meeting with an Alexandria, VA Uber accident lawyer after a rideshare accident can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re recovering from injuries. Being organized and prepared can make the first meeting more productive and help move your case forward. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we recommend taking a few simple steps before your appointment so we can focus on what matters most — getting the support and compensation you deserve. We give our clients small firm attention with big firm results.

• Bring All Accident-Related Documents. Gather all documents related to the accident, including the police report, insurance information, medical records, and any correspondence with Uber or the insurance companies. If you received any treatment after the crash, bring hospital or doctor visit summaries. These records help us understand the scope of the incident and your injuries.
• Make a Timeline of Events. Write down everything you remember, from the moments before the crash to what happened afterward. Include the date and time of the accident, where you were going, what you saw, and what the rideshare driver did. This timeline helps us get a clear picture of what happened without relying on memory during the meeting.
• Collect Photos and Videos. If you took photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or vehicle damage, be sure to have those ready for your Alexandria Uber accident lawyer. Visual evidence can be very helpful in building your case. If anyone shared videos with you, including dashcam or surveillance footage, bring those files too.
• List All Parties Involved. Make a list of everyone connected to the incident: the rideshare driver, any other drivers involved, passengers, and witnesses. Include their names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details if available. This makes it easier for us to follow up and gather supporting information.
• Record Your Expenses. Track any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident. This might include medical bills, rides to appointments, prescription costs, or car repairs. If the accident caused you to miss work, bring documentation showing the time missed and your lost wages. These details help us assess the financial impact of the crash.
• Note Any Ongoing Symptoms. If you’re still experiencing pain or other effects from the accident, write them down. This includes physical symptoms like headaches, back pain, or trouble sleeping, as well as emotional stress. We need to understand how the accident has affected your day-to-day life to present a full picture of your injuries.
• Bring Questions You Want to Ask. It’s normal to have questions about the process, the timeline, and what to expect. Write them down ahead of time so you don’t forget them during the meeting. We’re here to provide clear, direct answers so you feel informed and confident.

Getting ready for your first meeting doesn’t have to be difficult, and taking these steps will help us get to work right away. Your lawyer can help ensure you don’t make common mistakes following your accident. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we’re here to help you take action after an Uber accident. We work on a contingency-fee basis, so we win if you win. If you’ve been hurt in a rideshare crash, reach out to our Alexandria Uber accident lawyer to schedule a time to talk.

Alexandria Lyft Accident FAQs

Many people injured in Lyft accidents often feel unsure about where to turn for help in the aftermath of a crash. With over four decades of experience handling rideshare accident cases, the dedicated team of Alexandria Lyft accident lawyers at Blazkow Legal, PLLC, is committed to helping injured victims pursue full compensation for their losses.

To help you get started, we’ve provided answers to some of the most common questions that arise in Lyft accident claims. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Contact us directly to speak with one of our Alexandria Lyft accident attorneys and schedule your no-obligation consultation today.

How Long Does It Take To Settle A Lawsuit With Lyft?

The time it takes to reach a settlement after a Lyft accident varies based on the specific circumstances involved in each case. Some cases resolve quickly, often in a matter of months, while others take much longer if liability is disputed or injuries are severe and require prolonged treatment.

The process may also be slowed by the involvement of multiple insurance companies, each disputing liability and attempting to minimize their financial responsibility. While it may be tempting to resolve the claim as soon as possible, rushing the process can mean missing out on compensation you rightfully deserve.

How Much Will I Get From The Lyft Settlement

The amount you may receive from a Lyft accident settlement depends on the specific facts of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and how liability is determined among the parties involved. Additional factors, such as the cost of medical treatment, lost income, and the impact on your quality of life, can influence the amount of compensation you ultimately receive.

What If I Was Hit By A Lyft Driver While Walking Or Biking?

Being hit by a Lyft driver while walking or biking can lead to serious injuries that result in significant medical expenses, time away from work, and a reduced ability to enjoy activities you once loved. Regardless of whether you were walking across the street or riding a bike when the accident happened, you may be entitled to recover compensation if a Lyft driver hits you.

Why Should I Contact A Lawyer Before Responding To Lyft Or Their Representatives?

You should contact a lawyer before speaking with Lyft or their representatives because anything you say can be used to undermine your claim and justify offering a lower settlement than you deserve. A skilled lawyer knows how to handle the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and will passionately advocate for a fair settlement on your behalf. The sooner you contact a lawyer following a Lyft accident, the more effectively they can begin investigating the crash, identifying liable parties, and preserving key evidence.

At Blazkow Legal, PLLC, our Alexandria Lyft accident attorneys have a proven track record of securing fair settlements that accurately reflect the true value of our clients’ injuries and losses. Discover what clients have to say about working with our legal team by visiting our testimonials page.

Alexandria Uber Accident FAQs

If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, you likely have questions about what steps to take next and whether you should contact our attorneys to help protect your rights. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, our dedicated team of Uber Accident Lawyers in Alexandria, VA, is here to answer your questions, thoroughly review your case, and provide clear advice tailored to your unique situation.

With over 40 years of experience and a proven track record of securing meaningful results for rideshare accident victims, our firm is dedicated to providing the focused advocacy necessary to take on insurance companies and pursue full and fair compensation. Schedule your no-obligation consultation by reaching out to our team today.

Why Should I Avoid Speaking Directly To Uber’s Insurance Company Without A Lawyer?

Talking directly to Uber’s insurance company without a lawyer can be risky. Adjusters are trained to protect their company’s interests by using tactics that pressure claimants into accepting low settlements quickly before understanding the true value of their claims. The full impact of injuries like concussions, spinal trauma, or internal bleeding may not be noticeable right away and often leads to unexpected medical expenses and prolonged recovery periods.

If you accept a settlement too early, you may be left without the financial support needed to cover future treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, or income replacement. Our experienced Alexandria Uber accident attorney can help you handle the insurance process carefully, avoiding errors that could lower your payout and pushing for a resolution that covers your complete damages.

When Can I Expect A Settlement Or Resolution In My Uber Accident Claim?

The time it takes to settle an Uber accident claim varies and can be influenced by several factors. These include the severity of your injuries, disputes over liability, and the willingness of insurance companies to negotiate a fair settlement. Delays can occur if multiple parties are involved, ongoing medical treatment is required, or settlement negotiations become prolonged due to disagreements over liability or the amount of damages.

With our lawyers advocating on your behalf, you can avoid unnecessary delays and focus on your recovery while they manage deadlines and handle all communications with the insurance company. Our Alexandria rideshare accident attorneys at Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, have successfully resolved a wide range of Uber accident claims, including a $1 million settlement for a pedestrian struck by a rideshare driver.

What Types Of Damages Can I Recover After An Uber Accident?

Following an Uber accident, the amount and type of damages you may be entitled to recover depend on the specifics of your case and the degree of fault attributed to each party involved. Damages generally fall into three categories: economic, non-economic, and punitive. Economic damages are those that can be quantified in dollar amounts, such as medical bills, property damage, and lost income due to the inability to work.

Non-economic damages cover more subjective losses, including emotional distress, pain and suffering, and the loss of enjoyment of activities that once gave life meaning. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if there is clear evidence of gross negligence or willful misconduct. Our skilled Alexandria Uber accident attorney can assist in identifying all potential damages you may qualify for and work to secure the compensation needed to support your recovery and financial stability.

What Is The Average Settlement For An Uber Accident?

There is no universal average when it comes to Uber accident settlements. Each claim is evaluated based on the specific circumstances of the accident, including the facts surrounding the crash and any applicable insurance coverage. The outcome of settlement negotiations often depends on the quality of the evidence, how clearly fault can be shown, and the limits set by state laws and insurance policies.

To achieve the best possible outcome, it’s essential to collect and preserve all relevant evidence related to the accident, including photographs, witness statements, and police reports. Seeking support from our rideshare accident lawyers early on can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and building a strong case that accurately reflects the full extent of your losses.

Call The Rideshare Accident Attorneys At Blaszkow Legal Today!

If you have been hurt in a rideshare car accident, then you need representation right away. The insurance companies have two goals: 1) to minimize your claim, or 2) to deny it completely. You want someone on your side who can battle in your name, and get you the compensation that you deserve.

Call Blaszkow Legal today for a free consulation, and get Justice with Joe!

Alexandria/Northern Virginia Office:
5270 Shawnee Road #102, Alexandria, Va. 22312
703-879-5910

Richmond Office:
7824 Shrader Road, Richmond, Va. 23294
804-273-8929

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Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Alexandria, Virginia

Joe Blaszkow is the Uber Accident Lawyer. He has battled the rideshare insurance companies for his clients, and has recovered millions on their behalf! If you have been hurt in a car accident, then call today and Get Justice with Joe!

703-879-5910