New Orleans Rideshares Reduce Drunk Driving, But Accidents Still Happen

A New Orleans car accident attorney discusses the dangers

Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft can help reduce the number of drunk driving crashes, but they may also contribute to the total number of all car accidents. While it is still much safer to get a ride from a sober driver compared to getting behind the wheel when you are under the influence of alcohol, an April study found that compared to taxis, rideshares may raise the overall number of injury-causing motor vehicle crashes by 4.6%.

Rideshares are everywhere in New Orleans, so it's important for everyone — motorists, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians — to understand their rights when they're injured in an accident involving Uber, Lyft, or some other rideshare service.

Who is at fault in an Uber accident?

If you are injured in an accident involving Uber or Lyft, identifying which insurance coverage applies and who's responsible for your damages can be confusing. Timing is an important factor in determining how you may recover compensation. Uber and Lyft drivers don't work traditional shifts. They can go on and off duty multiple times in an hour.

If the driver was "on duty" at the time of the crash, then you will most likely file a claim with the rideshare company's insurance provider. Drivers are considered on duty when they are transporting a passenger, driving to pick up a fare, or signed into the rideshare app and seeking new fares.

Since there are exceptions and additions to these conditions, proving a driver's "on duty" status can be tricky. The rideshare service and driver's insurance providers frequently attempt to get the other to pay for damages. That's why crash victims often seek legal help from a car accident lawyer to help them sort through the mess and determine all potential sources of compensation.

Common injuries

Whether you are a passenger, a pedestrian, a cyclist, or another motorist—you should seek immediate medical attention if you're injured in an accident involving a rideshare driver. Even if you don't have any noticeable pain and symptoms, you may have serious internal injuries that can only be diagnosed by a licensed medical professional.

Common crash victim injuries include:

• Whiplash
• Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs)
• Concussions & Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Partial or Permanent Paralysis
• Fractured & Broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Severe Lacerations
• Facial Trauma
• Burn Injuries
• Shoulder, Knee & Chest Injuries
• Internal Bleeding

After you've been checked out by a doctor, you should talk to a car accident attorney to get a clear understanding of your legal rights and options.

Don't let the insurance company push you around

If you or a loved one was injured in a New Orleans rideshare accident, you deserve compensation for your losses. The problem is insurance adjusters always try to reduce liability and pay crash victims as little as possible. Insurance companies care more about protecting their bottom line than paying you the money you deserve. That's why you need an experienced car accident lawyer to look out for your best interests.

At The Law Office Of John S. Williams, LLC, we protect the rights of New Orleans accident victims. Attorney John S. Williams knows how to deal with insurance companies and build compelling cases for maximum compensation. Whether it's in settlement negotiations or in court in front of a judge and jury, our law firm will fight for every dollar you're entitled to.