Rapid City Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Experienced Legal Advocacy for Rideshare Accidents in South Dakota

Rideshare drivers are not subject to the same regulations as traditional taxi drivers and are not required to undergo the same level of training. As a result, rideshare drivers have been involved in numerous accidents across South Dakota and the country. When an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident, the rideshare companies quickly deny liability and blame the driver's negligence.

At Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP, we understand that rideshare companies often try to shift the blame for an accident to the driver. In these cases, we are prepared to fight the rideshare company's insurance company to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

Call Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP today at (605) 349-2221 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Rapid City rideshare accident team!

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents may manifest due to various factors, frequently originating from the dynamic nature of urban environments. Recognizing these common causes becomes pivotal when navigating a legal claim.

• Distracted Driving: Rideshare drivers might succumb to distractions from their smartphones or navigation systems, culminating in accidents resulting from diverted attention.
• Fatigue: Extended hours on the road can induce driver fatigue, elevating the risk of accidents.
• Traffic Violations: Rideshare drivers, like other motorists, may partake in hazardous behaviors such as speeding or disregarding traffic signals.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Poorly maintained rideshare vehicles can experience mechanical failures, contributing to accidents.
• Inadequate Background Checks: If rideshare companies fail to conduct thorough background checks on their drivers, it may lead to individuals with a history of traffic violations or criminal activity being behind the wheel.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Recovering damages after a rideshare accident is critical to pursuing a legal claim. The adept legal professionals at Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP are well-equipped to assist you in obtaining compensation for various types of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for both current and future medical bills arising from the rideshare accident, encompassing expenses related to hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Seeking compensation for the income lost throughout the recovery period, including potential diminishment in future earning capacity resulting from the aftermath of the rideshare accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Pursuing damages to address the physical and emotional distress endured as a consequence of the rideshare accident.
• Property Damage: Aiming for reimbursement to cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property that sustained damage in the accident.
• Wrongful Death: In the unfortunate event of a fatality, surviving family members have the right to pursue compensation for the profound loss of their loved one.

Our legal team at Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP is committed to thoroughly examining your case, ensuring that all pertinent damages are considered and diligently pursued on your behalf.

The Statute of Limitations for Rideshare Accidents in South Dakota

Understanding the timeframe to file a rideshare accident claim is of utmost importance. In South Dakota, the statute of limitations for rideshare accidents is typically three years from the accident date. Taking swift action to safeguard your rights and preserve crucial evidence is imperative. Failure to file within the specified timeframe may lead to the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.

At Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP, our legal team is well-versed in South Dakota's statutes of limitations and will diligently guide you through the legal process, ensuring your claim is filed promptly.

What Is Uber's Liability in Accidents?

Uber is a ridesharing company that allows people to connect with drivers for a ride via a smartphone app. Uber drivers are not company employees; they are independent contractors who use their vehicles to provide rides. Uber drivers are not required to undergo the same level of training as taxi drivers and are not subject to the same regulations.

Uber's primary defense in rideshare accident cases is that the driver's negligence caused the accident. Uber's insurance company will hire a private investigator to determine if the driver was at fault. If the investigator determines that the driver is not at fault, Uber will cover the accident-related expenses.

If the investigator determines that the driver was at least partially at fault, Uber's insurance company will attempt to negotiate a settlement with the driver. If the driver is unwilling to settle, Uber's insurance company will file a lawsuit against the driver. The driver's insurance policy will list Uber as an additional insured. Uber's insurance company can file a lawsuit against the driver and recover damages from the driver's policy.

Uber's insurance company will not cover any damages if the driver is not found to be at fault or if the driver does not have insurance. If the driver does not have insurance, Uber will attempt to get the driver's personal information from the ridesharing app. Uber will then attempt to get the driver's personal information from the ridesharing app. If Uber is successful, the company will attempt to get the driver's personal information from the ridesharing app. If Uber is successful, the company will attempt to get the driver's personal information from the ridesharing app.

Get Expert Legal Help After a Rideshare Accident in Rapid City

Successfully navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident requires legal proficiency and a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved. At Thomas Braun Bernard & Burke, LLP, our seasoned legal professionals are committed to offering steadfast support to individuals seeking fair compensation. If you or a loved one has experienced a rideshare accident in Rapid City, don't confront the legal challenges in isolation. Reach out to us today for a thorough assessment of your case, and allow us to advocate for the justice you are entitled to.

Schedule Your Consultation with Our Rideshare Accident Attorneys in Rapid City