League City Rideshare Accident Attorney

Being injured in a rideshare accident in League City, Texas, can be a disorienting and overwhelming experience. The physical and emotional toll of your injuries can be compounded by the complexities of dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and navigating insurance claims. You don’t have to face these challenges alone if you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident. 

A League City rideshare accident lawyer at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve and ensure your rights are protected.

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys is a dedicated personal injury law firm with a proven track record of securing maximum compensation for our clients. Our experienced League City rideshare accident lawyers understand the unique legal issues associated with rideshare accidents. They are committed to fighting for your best interests.

What are the Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in League City?

Rideshare accidents can occur for many reasons, often due to drivers’ negligence or other factors beyond their control. Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted driving

Rideshare drivers frequently use their phones for navigation and communication with passengers, increasing the risk of distraction.

Speeding

To maximize profits, some rideshare drivers may speed to complete more rides, leading to accidents.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Impaired driving remains a significant cause of accidents involving rideshare vehicles.

Failing to obey traffic signs and signals

Disregarding traffic laws can result in serious collisions.

Fatigued driving

Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, reducing a driver’s reaction time and judgment.

Reckless driving

Aggressive or reckless behavior, such as tailgating or weaving through traffic, increases the likelihood of an accident.

Improper turns

Making unsafe or illegal turns can lead to accidents.

Wrong-way driving

Entering a road or highway in the wrong direction is extremely dangerous and often results in severe accidents.

Unsafe lane changes

Failing to check blind spots or signals properly can cause collisions.

These factors, combined with the high demand for rideshare services, contribute to the frequency of accidents involving rideshare vehicles.

Popular, But Could Be Fatal

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, their growing prevalence has also led to a rise in related accidents. 

According to a report by Uber, while rideshare services offer numerous benefits, they also contribute to the overall traffic congestion and accident rates. 

Unfortunately, severe injuries and fatalities resulting from rideshare accidents have become a growing concern. Understanding the potential dangers and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety is crucial.

When To Hire a League City Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Texas

Knowing when to seek legal representation from a League City rideshare accident lawyer can protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Here are some critical situations where consulting with a League City rideshare accident lawyer is highly recommended:

You Suffered Serious Injuries: 

If your injuries require extensive medical treatment rehabilitation or have long-term effects, a lawyer can ensure you receive fair compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of earning capacity (if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or limit your ability to earn a living)

The Cause of the Accident is Unclear: 

Determining fault in a rideshare accident can be complex, especially if multiple parties are involved. It could be the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even a malfunction with the rideshare vehicle itself. 

An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the accident scene, gather evidence (including witness statements, police reports, and traffic camera footage), and reconstruct the events to identify the liable party.

The Rideshare Company Denies Your Claim: 

Rideshare companies may try to deny or minimize your claim, arguing the driver was not acting as their employee during the accident or that your injuries were not as severe as you claim. 

A lawyer can represent you in negotiations with the rideshare company’s insurance provider and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare Laws

Texas has specific regulations governing rideshare companies and their drivers. Understanding these laws can help determine who is liable for your injuries in the event of an accident. Here are some helpful resources:

OCCUPATIONS CODE: CHAPTER 2402.  TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANIES

Texas Occupations Code: Chapter 2402 – Transportation Network Companies: This chapter outlines the legal framework for rideshare operations in Texas, including insurance requirements and driver qualifications. Texas Occupations Code: Chapter 2402

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

The TDLR provides information on rideshare regulations and licensing requirements for rideshare companies and drivers. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

H.B. No. 100

This act addresses insurance requirements for rideshare companies in Texas, specifying the different phases of a ride and the corresponding insurance coverage that applies. H.B. No. 100

Rideshare Driver Requirements in Texas

Texas mandates that rideshare drivers meet specific qualifications before hitting the road. These requirements include:

Background checks: 

Drivers must undergo a comprehensive background check to ensure their safety and fitness for transporting passengers.

Minimum insurance coverage: 

Rideshare companies must maintain insurance policies covering drivers during different phases of a ride (when the app is on but no passenger is assigned, when a passenger is on board, and when the driver is logged off the app).

Vehicle inspections: 

Vehicles for rideshare services must meet specific safety standards and pass regular inspections.

Driver’s license and training: 

Drivers must possess a valid driver’s license and complete any training programs mandated by the rideshare company.

While these regulations help ensure a baseline level of safety, accidents can still occur. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, regardless of the cause, consulting with a League City rideshare accident lawyer is the best course of action. An attorney can navigate the legalities of your case, fight for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Steps to Follow After a Rideshare Accident

Following a rideshare accident, taking immediate and appropriate steps is crucial to protect your rights and well-being. Here’s a breakdown of essential actions:

Call 911 and report the accident.

Contacting emergency services should be your priority. Provide accurate details about the accident’s location and the nature of the injuries involved.

Document the scene with photos and videos.

If possible, capture visual evidence of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, and traffic conditions. This documentation will be invaluable when building your case.

Exchange contact and insurance information.

Gather the contact and insurance information of the rideshare driver, other involved parties, and any witnesses. This information will be vital for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

Report the accident to the rideshare company.

Inform the rideshare company about the accident as soon as possible. Follow their specific reporting procedures to initiate their investigation.

Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

It’s essential to prioritize your health. Visit a medical professional to assess your condition, even if injuries appear minor. Delayed or untreated injuries can worsen over time.

Notify your insurance company.

Contact your insurance company to report the accident and provide the necessary details. This step is crucial for potential claims related to your vehicle or injuries.

Keep all records and documents related to the accident.

Maintain a comprehensive file of all documents related to the accident, including medical records, repair bills, police reports, insurance correspondence, and photographs. These records will be crucial when building your case.

Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for legal assistance.

Seeking legal counsel from an experienced rideshare accident attorney is vital to protect your rights and pursue maximum compensation. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary. 

How Can I Determine Whether the Driver or the Rideshare Company is Responsible for My Injuries After an Accident?

Due to the unique nature of the rideshare business model, determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complex. Understanding the different phases of a rideshare trip and the corresponding insurance coverage is crucial.

A Rideshare Accident Attorney Knows Which Insurance Policy Applies

The rideshare driver has a passenger: 

The rideshare company’s insurance typically covers the accident.

The rideshare driver is in between passengers: 

The driver’s insurance may apply, but the rideshare company’s policy may also provide coverage.

The driver is not accepting passengers or is “off the clock”: 

Only the driver’s insurance is likely to cover the accident.

An experienced rideshare accident attorney can help determine which insurance policy applies and ensure you receive the appropriate compensation.

Types of Rideshare Apps

The rideshare industry has expanded beyond traditional passenger transportation services like Uber and Lyft. Several other platforms offer similar services, including food delivery and package delivery. 

Understanding the different types of rideshare apps is essential for determining potential liability in case of an accident.

Uber Accidents

Uber is one of the most well-known rideshare platforms, offering passenger transportation services. Due to the company’s business model and insurance policies, accidents involving Uber drivers can have complex legal implications.

Lyft Accidents

Similar to Uber, Lyft is a popular rideshare app. Accidents involving Lyft drivers share many similarities with Uber accidents but may have specific legal nuances.

GrubHub Delivery Accidents

GrubHub is a food delivery service that connects customers with restaurants. Accidents involving GrubHub delivery drivers often involve motorcycles or bicycles, which can present unique challenges in determining liability.

Instacart Delivery Accidents

Instacart is a grocery delivery service that connects shoppers with customers. Accidents involving Instacart shoppers can occur while picking up or delivering groceries.

DoorDash Delivery Accidents

DoorDash is another food delivery service that has grown significantly. Accidents involving DoorDash drivers often share similarities with other services.

Amazon Flex Delivery Accidents

Amazon Flex is a crowdsourced delivery service that allows individuals to deliver packages for Amazon. Due to the nature of the service and the relationship between the driver and Amazon, accidents involving Amazon Flex drivers can be complex.

Each service operates under specific guidelines, and accidents involving them may involve different legal considerations. It is essential to work with an attorney familiar with the nuances of rideshare and delivery app accidents.

Rideshare Accident FAQs in League City, Texas

What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in League City? 

Immediately following a rideshare accident, call 911, document the scene, exchange information, and seek medical attention. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Who is liable for damages in a rideshare accident in League City? 

Liability can depend on whether the rideshare driver was actively transporting passengers or was off-duty. An attorney can help determine the responsible party and pursue compensation.

Can I sue the rideshare company after an accident in League City? 

In some cases, you may be able to sue the rideshare company if their driver was at fault and on the clock. Your lawyer can advise you on the best course of action.

What kind of compensation can I expect after a rideshare accident in League City? 

Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. The exact amount will depend on the specifics of your case.

How long must I file a claim after a rideshare accident in League City? 

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the accident date. However, acting quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case is essential.

Contact a League City Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today! Free Consultations!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, DeHoyos Accident Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced League City rideshare accident lawyers offer free consultations and are dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with your case.