Aurora Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Aurora Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Rideshare apps have become a significant addition to modern society, particularly Uber and Lyft, which have emerged as the most prominent nationwide apps. While the convenience of rideshare apps cannot be overstated, it is important to remember that accidents can always happen. If you are ever involved in a car accident with an Uber or a Lyft, even if you are a passenger, it can be difficult to establish liability. An experienced Aurora, IL, rideshare accident lawyer can help you.

How to Protect Your Claim in the Event of a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare apps have truly changed the way that people are able to get around, whether for work, fun nights out, or getting to the airport. However, being involved in a car accident as a rideshare passenger can be a terrifying experience that is hard to overcome. It is important that you take the proper precautions to protect not only yourself but any future claim that you seek to make with the help of a rideshare accident lawyer.

Illinois enforces the Transportation Network Providers Act. This makes sure that rideshare drivers and apps have a certain amount of liability insurance in the unfortunate event that they are involved in accidents that result in personal injuries, deaths, or property damages. It is also important to note that Illinois state law prohibits any driver involved in an accident from fleeing the scene. If they do, they could incur harsh penalties from law enforcement officials.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you are involved in a rideshare-related accident, there are some important steps that you should take. These can make sure that you are protected if you wish to pursue legal action against the party who is found liable for your accident. Following these steps immediately after a rideshare accident could help you keep your claim intact:

• Keep Calm: In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, your natural instinct may be to panic. It is vitally important that you do not panic. Keeping a level head will help make this whole ordeal easier to handle. Do what you can to keep calm, assess your situation, and take a few deep breaths.
• Check Yourself for Injuries: Once you have calmed yourself down, you should start checking yourself for injuries. If there are any other passengers in the car, you may want to check them for injuries as well. Be sure to look for any potential red or wet spots, bruising, protrusions, or potential broken bones. If you do not find injuries, you should still let EMTs check for themselves.
• Call 911: You should call 911 as soon as you can do so. If you are too injured to call 911, you should have the driver or one of the other passengers do it for you. Having police and EMTs on the scene can help the entire ordeal go more smoothly. When police arrive, they will write up a report about the accident, which you can use for your own records and your claim.
• Don’t Admit Fault: When speaking to the police, be sure to be totally honest and leave nothing out. A lack of honesty could damage your chances of pursuing a successful claim. Be sure not to admit fault of any kind. Even apologizing can be perceived as an admission of guilt. Say nothing, as admitting fault can hurt you later.
• Gather Evidence: At the scene, once the police have given you the all-clear, you can start gathering evidence that supports your claim. Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to the rideshare car and other vehicles involved. Be sure to speak to any witnesses who may have seen the accident take place.
• Contact a Lawyer: If you wish to pursue legal action, you should reach out to an experienced accident lawyer. They can advise you on an effective course of action.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Requirements for Reporting an Accident in Illinois?

A: The requirements for reporting an accident in Illinois are fairly strict. Every driver involved in an Illinois accident that involves a serious injury, death, or property damage that exceeds $1,500 must report said accident to the proper authorities within 10 days of the accident. If there is a police officer on the scene, they will submit their own report.

Q: What Happens If the Other Driver Was at Fault, but You Have No Insurance in Illinois?

A: In Illinois, if the other driver is found to be at fault, but you do not have car insurance, you may still be able to seek compensation and recover damages of some kind. Illinois uses a comparative negligence system, which means that you can still recover a certain percentage in damages, even if you are found to be partially liable for the accident. You may, however, face legal penalties for driving without insurance.

Q: How Long Can You Wait to Report an Accident in Illinois?

A: In Illinois, you must report a car accident within 10 days of its occurrence. You need to report the incident to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) if it resulted in serious bodily injury, death, or significant property damage that exceeds $1,500. If police do not arrive at the scene, you will need to report the accident yourself.

Q: Is Illinois a No-Fault Auto Accident State?

A: No, Illinois is not a no-fault auto accident state. Illinois is very much an at-fault state for car accidents. In Illinois, the person who is found to be legally at fault for a car accident is also responsible for reimbursing the aggrieved party for damages and injuries. Due to comparative negligence, the other party may be found to be somewhat liable.

Reach Out to a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

A rideshare accident lawyer can help you determine your next move after you have been involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver or vehicle. At Connolly Injury Law, we can help you build your case, determine who is liable for the accident, and make sure you are never taken advantage of by insurance companies. Contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as possible.