Abington, Pennsylvania is a unique enclave known for its rich history, with landmarks dating back to the Revolutionary War era. Its community thrives in the beauty of Pennypack Creek and Robbins Park. In recent years, the convenience of rideshare services has woven its way into the fabric of Abington’s transport landscape. However, with the rise of this modern transportation method comes the heightened risk of accidents. For those unfortunate enough to experience a car accident, the repercussions are not just physical – the emotional scars can be long-lasting and deeply traumatic. In these trying moments, navigating the maze of liability and compensation alone can be overwhelming. This is where the expertise of the Munley rideshare accident lawyers in Abington becomes invaluable. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the claims process and make sure you understand all your legal options. Call today for your free case evaluation so we can start the process of recovering the compensation you deserve.
The Rise of Uber and Lyft Accidents
As rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber have skyrocketed in popularity, concerns about their safety records have also come into question. According to a recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there was a slight decrease in traffic fatalities in 2022. However, that slight decrease came after two years of a dramatic increase in fatalities. Many experts attribute a portion of that rise to the surge in rideshare use. Pennsylvania has not been immune to this trend. The state saw an uptick in rideshare-related accidents, especially in urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. While these cities face the brunt due to higher rideshare densities, suburban areas like Abington aren’t excluded. Though Abington’s Lyft accident rate is comparatively lower than the state’s major cities, it still mirrors the national uptick pattern. Residents and local authorities are becoming increasingly wary of this evolving situation, urging Uber and Lyft drivers and riders to exercise caution and utilize safety features provided by these platforms.
What is the difference between a car accident and a rideshare accident?
While the vehicles may be the same, there are stark differences between a typical car accident and a rideshare vehicle accident. Regular car accidents typically involve private individuals, where liability is often determined between the involved parties and their respective insurance companies. In contrast, ridesharing accidents introduce a third-party layer: the ridesharing company. These accidents can be more complex because they involve determining not only the fault of the driver but also the potential liabilities and responsibilities of the ridesharing platform. Furthermore, the ridesharing driver’s status – whether they were logged into the app, carrying a passenger, or on their way to pick one up – can significantly influence the claims process and liability distribution. The added complex nature of these accidents makes it essential for the victim to reach out to a Munley personal injury lawyer who specializes in ridesharing incidents.
Ridesharing services vs. taxis – is there a difference?
In Abington, PA, both ridesharing services and taxis offer convenient transportation options, but they exhibit distinct operational differences. Ridesharing services, like Lyft and Uber, operate primarily through mobile apps, allowing passengers to hail and pay for rides digitally. They also offer a dynamic pricing model, where costs can fluctuate based on demand. Taxis, on the other hand, have a more traditional presence. They can be hailed on the street, called via dispatch, or found at designated taxi stands. Their fares are typically metered and regulated by local ordinances. While ridesharing might offer more flexibility and often modern vehicles, taxis provide a longstanding, familiar mode of transport for many Abington residents.
What are the common causes of Lyft accidents in Abington?
Lyft accidents, like any other car accidents, can occur from a variety of causes. Understanding these can help both drivers and passengers remain vigilant and potentially prevent serious injury. Some common causes of Lyft accidents include:
- Distracted Driving:
- Texting, using the app, or engaging with passengers can divert a driver’s attention.
- Adjusting GPS or music settings can also be a distraction.
- Fatigue:
- Many Lyft drivers work long hours, often in addition to other jobs.
- Driving while tired can slow reaction times and impair judgment.
- Speeding:
- Pressured to maximize earnings, some drivers might exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions.
- Unfamiliar Roads:
- Drivers might be unfamiliar with specific local roads or areas, leading to mistakes or miscalculations.
- Vehicle Maintenance:
- Failing to regularly check and maintain their vehicle can lead to mechanical failures.
- Impaired Driving:
- Although strictly against Lyft’s policies, there have been instances of drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Poor Weather Conditions:
- Rain, snow, fog, or icy conditions can increase the risk of accidents if drivers don’t adjust their driving accordingly.
- Aggressive Driving:
- Some drivers might exhibit road rage or aggressive behaviors, such as tailgating or cutting others off.
- Other Road Users:
- Accidents aren’t always the Lyft driver’s fault. Other road users, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, can also make errors.
What kind of injuries do Lyft accident victims sustain?
Victims of Lyft accidents can sustain devastating injuries that can potentially affect the outcome of the rest of their lives. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash:
- Rapid forward and backward movement of the head during a collision can cause soft tissue injuries in the neck.
- Broken Bones and Fractures:
- Collisions can lead to fractures in arms, legs, ribs, or other parts of the body.
- Concussions:
- A sudden jolt or blow to the head can result in traumatic brain injuries.
- Lacerations and Bruises:
- Broken glass, metal shards, or the impact itself can cause cuts and contusions.
- Internal Injuries:
- Internal organs might get damaged due to the force of a collision, leading to internal bleeding.
- Spinal Cord Injuries:
- Accidents can lead to herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or more severe spinal cord injuries causing paralysis.
- Burns:
- In more severe accidents where vehicles catch fire, occupants might sustain burns.
- Psychological Trauma:
- Apart from physical injuries, many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression after an accident.
- Fatalities:
- In the worst cases, accidents can result in the tragic loss of life.
Every injury, whether physical or psychological, underscores the importance of preventive safety measures, as well as the need for thorough medical evaluation and treatment after an accident. It’s essential for victims to be aware of potential injuries and to seek medical attention even if they initially feel fine. Some serious injuries are not visible right away, while others will develop or worsen after the car accident.
What are my rights after a rideshare accident?
Following a Lyft car accident, you have a series of rights that are designed to protect your well-being and interests. Primarily, you have the right to seek medical attention immediately, regardless of how minor your injuries might seem initially. As we stated before, it’s 
crucial to document any potential injuries, as symptoms may show up later. You also have the right to report the accident to law enforcement, ensuring that an official record exists. If the Uber or Lyft driver tries to talk you out of calling the police, do not listen to them. A police officer will be able to facilitate the necessary medical care and start documenting the accident scene. You unquestionably have the right to secure a rideshare accident attorney who specializes in rideshare car accidents. This legal counsel can guide you through the complex maze of rideshare regulations, driver liabilities, and company policies. Finally, if another party is found liable for the accident—whether it is the Lyft driver, another motorist, or even a third-party—you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. This can help you recover damages to help offset the cost of your injuries. Always remember, following an accident, it’s essential to be proactive in understanding and exercising your rights to ensure your protection and potential compensation.
Will I lose access to Lyft services if I file an accident claim?
Filing a Lyft accident claim primarily concerns seeking compensation for injuries or damages sustained during a rideshare trip. According to Lyft’s official policies and user agreement, there’s no explicit clause stating that users will be banned for pursuing a legitimate accident claim. However, like many platforms, Lyft retains the right to deactivate user accounts for various reasons. While it would be controversial and possibly actionable for them to do so purely based on filing a claim, it’s essential to approach the process with transparency and fairness.
What are the steps to a rideshare accident claim?
When involved in a Lyft car accident, navigating a personal injury case to claim compensation can be complex. However, at Munley Law, our personal injury lawyers make sure our clients are informed every step of the way. We believe knowledge is power, so we equip our clients with understanding the critical steps involved to serve justice on their behalf. Here are the following steps your Munley Lyft accident lawyer will take to recover compensation:
- Determine the Liable Party: The first step is identifying all parties that might be accountable for the accident. This could include the Lyft driver, other involved motorists, the rideshare company, or even a third-party entity responsible for vehicle maintenance or road conditions. Identifying all potential culprits ensures that no avenue for compensation is overlooked.
- File the Claim in Pennsylvania: Once the liable parties are determined, you need to initiate your claim. It’s essential to be aware that Pennsylvania has a specific statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. According to an official Pennsylvania General Assembly, victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file their claim. Missing this deadline can jeopardize your ability to recover damages.
- Build the Case: With the assistance of a skilled Lyft accident lawyer, you’ll proceed to consolidate evidence to strengthen your claim. This can involve acquiring the police report detailing the accident’s circumstances, consulting with medical professionals to document your injuries, and possibly even employing accident reconstruction specialists to recreate the event, showcasing the liability of the responsible parties.
- Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Often, the next step involves entering into negotiations with insurance companies. It’s no secret that insurance adjusters are notorious for offering settlements that undervalue the victim’s suffering. However, firms like Munley Law have the expertise to counteract these tactics. Our car accident lawyers will ensure that adjusters don’t force you into settling for a compensation amount that’s less than you rightly deserve.
- Go to Trial: In cases where a fair settlement isn’t reached during negotiations, the matter may need to go to trial. Here, the financial strength of your representing firm plays a pivotal role. Munley Law, for instance, boasts robust financial backing to sustain lengthy trial processes. Our reputation as seasoned trial attorneys is also a testament to our courtroom prowess. We have repeatedly demonstrated success, ensuring our clients’ rights are upheld against formidable opposition.
- Damages: When pursuing your claim, Munley car accident lawyers will fight tenaciously to ensure you’re compensated for a range of damages. These damages are categorized into three different groups: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.
Economic damages include
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Medical bills
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Property damage
Non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Post traumatic stress disorder
- Loss of consortium
Punitive damages are the most uncommon damages in personal injury cases. These damages are meant to punish the defendant rather than reward the victim. When you discuss the legal action with your car accident lawyers at Munley Law, you will be able to discuss if you think your claim should include punitive damages.
Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Laws
While we are talking about how we will form and win your claim, it is also also essential to talk about Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence laws. Fortunately, these laws state that even if you’re partly at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, the compensation might be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, let’s say you are found to be 20% at fault for the car accident, and the other drivers are found to be 80% at fault. You would recover 80% of the damages, while the at fault driver could recover 20%.
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer for your rideshare accident case
Selecting the right accident lawyer for a Lyft accident case can be the pivotal factor in ensuring justice and securing maximum compensation. First and foremost, experience in rideshare accident cases is crucial. Given the unique challenges associated with rideshare cases, a Lyft accident lawyer with prior Lyft or other ridesharing cases under their belt will be well-equipped to navigate the intricacies. Specialization in personal injury law ensures they are updated with the latest legal precedents and have a deep understanding of the nuances of such cases. Client testimonials and past success rates offer insight into the lawyer’s efficacy and dedication. Additionally, their communication skills are vital; a lawyer who maintains transparent communication, keeping you informed and involved at every stage, is indispensable. Moreover, consider their fee structure; many reputable personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. Lastly, gauge their empathy and commitment. A lawyer who genuinely cares about your wellbeing and is committed to getting you the best outcome will tirelessly advocate on your behalf. In essence, a blend of expertise, proven track record, transparency, and dedication should guide your choice in a personal injury lawyer for a Lyft accident.
Call the Munley Lyft Accident Lawyers today for a free consultation
If you’re a victim of a Lyft accident, reaching out to Munley Law’s Lyft accident lawyers for a free consultation is a pivotal first step. Since 1959, the Munley Law firm has built a reputation for fiercely advocating on behalf of our clients, ensuring they receive justice and fair compensation. Our track record speaks volumes; with numerous past settlement victories, we have demonstrated time and again our legal prowess and deep understanding of the intricacies associated with rideshare accidents. Beyond their evident expertise, what sets Munley Law apart is our unwavering dedication to their clients. We don’t just view you as a case number; we recognize the profound impact such a car accident can have on your life and are committed to standing by your side throughout the process.
