Need an Injury Lawyer After an Uber/Ridesharing Accident in Virginia?
To operate in the state of Virginia, ridesharing companies must pay for a $100,000 occupational license, carry an insurance policy carrying up to $1,000,000 in accident coverage, and other requirements. Virginia has a number of requirements that apply to ridesharing drivers, also known as transportation network company (TNC) drivers. For example, TNC drivers must undergo background checks every two years. TNC drivers are also required to display on their vehicle the “trade dress” or logo of their ridesharing company.
If the driver did not meet these requirements, you may have additional remedies in court. Consult with an experienced Virginia ridesharing accident attorney to learn more.
Ridesharing Companies Attempt to Dodge Liability by Utilizing Independent Contractors
If you were injured as a result of a ridesharing driver, you should be entitled to financial recovery under the law. Ridesharing companies often make such recovery a bit more difficult in that they work with independent contractor drivers rather than employing them. It is much easier for the company to assign blame to the driver if that driver is not their employee.
However, the law of most states requires that ridesharing companies carry liability insurance, often up to $1 million in coverage. Those who have been injured due to an accident caused by a ridesharing driver may be able to make claims against such policies. However, some policies only limit valid claims to accidents caused while the ridesharing drive was logged into their company’s app and on a trip for hire.
Don’t Go Up Against the Insurance Company Alone
Chances are that the ridesharing insurance company will not be in a hurry to pay your claim, no matter how valid it is, because they lose money if they do. In fact, they may have actions planned to gather information against you and use it to claim that somehow the damages you suffered are not worth very much. Beware if an insurance company contacts you, especially if they want you to make a recorded statement. You might think at first this is a good opportunity, thinking that they want to hear your side of the story. But in most instances, they will use this as an opportunity to gather information to use against you and potentially deny your claim.
Retain the Services of A Reputable Virginia Trial Attorney
Don’t give the ridesharing company control over your case. The outcome of this case will have a significant impact on the quality of you and your family, for better or for worse. Let an experienced personal injury trial attorney take control over your case. You need a professional like this to handle the communications with the insurance company and its lawyers. And such a professional will prepare your case in the correct way, ready to go to trial if need be. If the insurance company knows that your attorney will not hesitate to go to trial, this alone may cause them to settle in your favor.
So if you have a good trial attorney on your side, you have a better chance of obtaining just and fair compensation for your injuries caused by the Uber, Lyft or other ridesharing driver. Contact us today to find out more!