McAlester Rideshare Accident Lawyers

Fighting for Rideshare Accident Victims in Oklahoma

If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you deserve fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our McAlester rideshare accident lawyers at the Stipe Law Firm can help you understand your legal options and hold the rideshare company accountable for its negligence.

To schedule a consultation, call (918) 505-7741 or contact us online to get started with our McAlester rideshare accident attorney.

Who Is Liable in a Rideshare Accident in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, liability in a rideshare accident can involve multiple parties. Responsibility may lie with the driver of the rideshare vehicle, the rideshare company itself, or even another driver involved in the accident. Our McAlester rideshare accident attorneys can guide you through establishing liability.

Rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, carry insurance policies that cover their drivers when they're logged into the app and transporting passengers. However, these companies often attempt to limit their liability by arguing that their drivers are independent contractors rather than employees, which could make the claims process more complicated. If another driver caused the accident, their insurance company may also be liable for covering your damages.

Understanding who is liable in these accidents is crucial since it directly impacts how and from whom victims can seek compensation. Engaging a knowledgeable legal professional can be instrumental in navigating these complexities. Oklahoma law also stipulates specific timeframes within which claims must be filed, highlighting the need for prompt legal advice from a rideshare accident lawyer in McAlester.

Tactics Used by Rideshare Companies

Rideshare companies often employ tactics to reduce their liability and payout. These tactics might include disputing the severity of injuries, questioning the victim's account of the accident, or asserting that the driver was not logged into their app at the time of the accident. Having a reputable rideshare accident attorney by your side can help counter these tactics.

Rideshare Regulations in McAlester & Oklahoma

The state of Oklahoma mandates strict regulations for rideshare companies to ensure the safety and security of passengers. These regulations require background checks for drivers and minimum insurance coverage while drivers are logged into the app, either waiting for a passenger or during a trip. However, compliance can vary, affecting liability and claims processes. It is critical for victims of rideshare accidents to be aware of these state mandates to ensure that their rights are fully protected.

In cities like McAlester, the enforcement of these regulations is critical, given the area's active rideshare landscape. The impact these rules have on claiming compensation cannot be understated, as they determine the extent of coverage a victim is eligible for. Local attorneys, like those at Stipe Law Firm, are well-versed in these regulations, offering an advantage to those seeking justice following an accident.

What Causes Rideshare Accidents?

Like any other vehicle on the road, rideshare vehicles get into accidents. The causes of these accidents, however, are often different from accidents involving other vehicles. Common causes of rideshare accidents include:

• Distracted Driving
• Speeding
• Fatigued Driving
• Failure to Yield
• Reckless Driving
• Driving Under the Influence
• Failure to Stop
• Road Defects
• Poor Weather Conditions
• Poor Road Conditions
• Vehicle Malfunctions
• Vehicle Defects
• Vehicle Maintenance Issues

Drivers operating under rideshare platforms may also face unique stressors, such as managing multiple app notifications, handling unfamiliar routes, or dealing with passenger distractions. These factors can contribute to an increased risk of accidents, which is not usually the case for traditional car services. Understanding these specific causes can help in formulating stronger claims.

Rideshare companies are not immune to liability for the injuries and deaths that result from their drivers' negligence. If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you need to know your legal rights. Our McAlester rideshare accident attorneys can help you understand what you are owed and hold the rideshare company accountable.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Common injuries may include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: A sudden collision impact can cause the neck to convulse violently, resulting in whiplash. This injury often results in pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion and can sometimes have long-term effects.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Passengers and drivers may suffer concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) if their heads strike the window, dashboard, or other hard surfaces during an accident.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a crash can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often demand extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a rideshare accident could result in fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other bones. These injuries could require surgery and a lengthy recovery period, depending on the severity.
• Internal Injuries: The blunt force trauma from an accident can cause internal bleeding and harm to critical organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries are often life-threatening and need prompt medical attention.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Shattered glass and other debris from the accident could lead to deep cuts and lacerations, which could lead to scarring and infection if not properly treated.

Additionally, psychological trauma is a significant injury that may not be immediately visible. Anxiety, PTSD, and depression are common among accident victims and can have a profound effect on their quality of life. Addressing these injuries requires not only medical treatment but emotional support and therapy.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Possible damages may include the following:

• Medical Expenses: This includes all present and future medical costs related to the accident, like hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and assistive devices.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries stop you from working, you may be qualified for compensation for your lost wages during your recovery. This can also include loss of earning capability if your injuries affect your capacity to work in the future.
• Pain and Suffering: Rideshare accidents can cause significant physical pain and emotional suffering. Compensation for pain and suffering seeks to address the non-economic impact of your injuries, including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: If your vehicle or personal property had been damaged in the accident, you could recover the repair or replacement costs.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the rideshare driver’s actions were especially reckless or egregious, punitive damages could be granted to penalize the driver and deter similar behavior.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have negatively affected your relationship with your partner, you could be able to recover damages for loss of consortium, which covers the loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy.

Importantly, documenting all damages and obtaining thorough records from healthcare providers can significantly strengthen your claim. An attorney can assist in categorizing and valuing these damages to ensure you seek a comprehensive compensation package.