Rideshare Accidents
Thousands of Clients Served Since 1980
Rideshare Accidents in Vermont
Skilled Attorneys for Rideshare Crashes in Woodstock, VT and Beyond
Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft have become extremely popular in Vermont as well as the rest of the country. While these companies allow people to make money driving others around town, they also pose several risks to the safety of passengers and other drivers on the road.
At Shillen Mackall Selden & Spicer, our rideshare accident attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve if you were injured in an accident with a rideshare driver. At our law firm, we know how to investigate rideshare accidents and hold rideshare companies accountable for their negligence. We know how to prove that rideshare companies are at fault for the injuries our clients suffer, and we know how to get the compensation our clients deserve.
Call (802) 457-4848 to speak with an attorney today.
What Is a Rideshare Accident?
A rideshare accident is any motor vehicle crash that occurs while a rideshare driver is on the job. Rideshare drivers are not always properly trained to drive safely, and rideshare companies do not always require them to pass a background check. Because of these factors, rideshare drivers can pose a significant risk to the safety of other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the road.
Rideshare accidents can occur in many ways:
- A rideshare driver rear-ends another driver
- A rideshare driver causes a car accident by changing lanes without looking
- A rideshare driver causes a car accident by failing to stop at a red light or stop sign
- A rideshare driver causes an accident by driving too fast or aggressively
- A pedestrian is struck by a rideshare vehicle
- Another vehicle strikes the rideshare vehicle
Who Is Liable for Your Injuries?
Liability in a rideshare accident in Vermont can involve multiple parties. These can include:
- Rideshare Driver: If the rideshare driver's negligence, such as reckless driving or violating traffic laws, contributed to the accident, they may be held liable.
- Rideshare Company: Rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft may share liability. In Vermont, rideshare companies are required to provide insurance coverage that applies when a driver is actively engaged in providing services.
- Other Drivers Involved: If another driver's negligence caused or contributed to the accident, that driver may also be held liable.
- Third Parties: Liability might extend to third parties, such as a maintenance company or a vehicle manufacturer if a defect or inadequate maintenance played a role in the accident.
Tactics Rideshare Companies May Use to Reduce Liability
Rideshare companies often employ various tactics to reduce their liability and payouts in the aftermath of an accident:
- Independent Contractor Status: Arguing that rideshare drivers are independent contractors rather than employees may be a tactic to distance the rideshare company from liability. However, recent legal developments challenge this classification.
- Limited Insurance Coverage: Rideshare companies may attempt to limit their insurance coverage by arguing that the driver was not actively engaged in providing services at the time of the accident.
- Quick Settlement Offers: Offering quick settlement agreements to victims is a common strategy. However, these offers may not adequately compensate victims for the full extent of their damages.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Vermont, take the following steps to protect your rights:
Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police. Ensure an official report is filed, as it can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Gather Information: Collect names, contact information, and insurance details from all parties involved. Document the accident scene and any contributing factors.
Notify the Rideshare Company: Report the accident to the rideshare company. Provide details about the incident and document any communication with the company.
Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident in detail with anyone other than law enforcement, medical professionals, and your attorney.
How Shillen Mackall Seldon & Spicer Law Office Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, the experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney at Shillen Mackall Seldon & Spicer Law Office can provide invaluable assistance:
- Legal Expertise: Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Vermont's rideshare and personal injury laws, ensuring comprehensive representation.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We conduct thorough investigations, gathering evidence to establish liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Negotiation and Litigation: Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, we are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.
- Client-Centered Approach: At Shillen Mackall Seldon & Spicer Law Office, we prioritize communication, transparency, and personalized attention, ensuring you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t navigate the complexities alone.
Why Choose Shillen Mackall & Selden?
At Shillen Mackall & Selden, our rideshare accident attorneys are here to help you if you were injured in an accident with a rideshare driver. We know how to investigate rideshare accidents and hold rideshare companies accountable for their negligence. We know how to prove that rideshare companies are at fault for the injuries our clients suffer, and we know how to get them the compensation they deserve.
Call us at (802) 457-4848 or reach out to us online.
What Sets Us Apart?
A Legacy of Successful Cases and Happy Clients Since 1980
Free Initial Consultations and a Contingency Fee Basis
Exclusive Knowledge and Focus on Personal Injury Law
Over 80 Years of Combined Legal Experience
Representation Tailored to Your Specific Needs and Circumstances
24/7 Availability and Fast, Attentive Service
See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
They truly look after your best interest.
I was involved in a work related injury and Dennis Shillen and his team have been by my side during this entire incident. They answered all my questions and and concerns. I couldn’t have done it without them. They truly look after your best interest and put you first .. 10+stars not 5 Thank you so much
Outstanding group of professionals.
Dennis and his team are an outstanding group of professionals. I am extremely pleased with the service and representation they provided.I would and will highly recommend them to anyone who may need their own service.Hopefully I will not need there assistance in the future, but I would certainly call on them if the need arises.
More than we ever expected.
Attorney Mackall and his paralegal Brianna handled every aspect of my son’s personal injury case from start to finish. The results were more than we ever expected.