Getting into any car accident can be stressful. You’ll need to file an insurance claim and decide if you want to sue the other driver for damages. But when you get into an accident with a rideshare driver working as a contractor for Lyft or Uber, figuring out your legal options can seem confusing. Working with a Chicago car accident attorney is essential, but before you schedule your consultation, it’s helpful to understand your options. Here’s what you need to know about who you can sue in a rideshare accident.
Who You Can Sue in a Rideshare Accident
There are several parties involved in most car accidents, including rideshare accidents. The parties you may want to sue will depend on the circumstances surrounding your accident. However, these are the parties you may be able to hold liable for damages:
- The rideshare driver: The driver working for Lyft or Uber may be liable for your damages if they’re even partially at-fault for the accident.
- Other drivers involved: If the accident involved drivers other than the rideshare driver, you may be able to sue them for damages.
- The rideshare company: In some cases, you may be able to sue the rideshare company itself for damages. However, this is rare and can be difficult to succeed with.
When You Can Sue a Rideshare Company
Suing rideshare companies can be difficult since drivers are independent contractors rather than employees of the company. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. There are a few situations where the rideshare company may be liable for damages. Let’s take a closer look.
Uber or Lyft Didn’t Vet the Driver Appropriately
Rideshare companies are expected to vet drivers before bringing them on as contractors. They typically should make sure the drivers have a clean record and aren’t likely to engage in behaviors that threaten the safety of their passengers. If the rideshare company didn’t properly vet the driver, they may be responsible for your accident and your injuries. This means you could sue them to hold them accountable.
Uber or Lyft Allowed the Driver to Use an Unsafe Vehicle
Just as rideshare companies are supposed to vet drivers, they’re also supposed to vet the vehicles used. If Lyft or Uber knowingly let a driver use a vehicle that wasn’t roadworthy and that vehicle’s condition contributed to the accident, they could be liable for your injuries.
Uber of Lyft Introduced Unsafe App Features
Both Uber and Lyft drivers are required to use the rideshare companies’ apps when they’re picking up passengers. If those apps introduce features that distract drivers when they would otherwise be paying attention to the road, the rideshare companies could be liable for any injuries you suffer from an accident. Your Chicago car accident attorney will help you figure out if the mandatory apps contributed to the accident.
How to Decide Who to Sue
Ultimately, figuring out who is liable for your injuries can be tricky, and it will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case. However, your Chicago car accident attorney can help you figure out who is responsible for the accident and who may be liable for the damages you suffered.
Typically, suing the at-fault driver may be the best option. But if the accident resulted from the actions of the rideshare company, you can and should hold them accountable.
Let Fabbrini Law Firm Help
If you’ve been involved in a car accident with a rideshare driver, you may be able to sue the driver and the rideshare company they work for. But you’ll want to speak with an experienced Chicago car accident attorney as soon as possible. They’ll be able to review your case and help you understand your options. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.