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Tacoma Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Expert Tacoma Rideshare Accident Attorneys

Did you get hurt in a Tacoma Uber or Lyft as a rideshare passenger or occupant of another vehicle? Rideshare accidents involve unique insurance challenges that can make it difficult to get the compensation you need for your recovery. The good news is that you don’t have to solve these challenges yourself.


Freeman Law Firm, Inc. understands the ins and outs of rideshare accident claims and is here to handle yours for you. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our Tacoma personal injury lawyers assess your case, stand up for your rights, and demand the financial recovery you are owed.

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Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Tacoma

Rideshare drivers aren’t professionals with specialized training or skills. They’re everyday people who earn money by offering rides in their personal vehicles. As a result, they are just as likely as any other driver to get into an accident, and certain factors inherent to the ridesharing model increase their crash risk. Long hours in traffic mean added mileage and greater wear on their vehicles, which can impact handling and safety features. More time on the road also statistically increases their exposure to potential crash scenarios. Let’s review some common causes of rideshare accidents and how these factors come into play:

Distracted Driving

Rideshare drivers rely on smartphones and navigation systems to communicate with passengers and find pickup or dropoff locations. The need for constant map-checking and app usage can lead to moments of distraction. Even if a driver glances at a screen for just a few seconds, it can significantly increase the risk of an accident, especially in heavy traffic or unfamiliar areas.

Driver Fatigue

Many rideshare drivers work long hours, sometimes late into the night or early in the morning, which means fatigue is a common risk factor. In some cases, drivers take on back-to-back shifts and push themselves beyond typical levels of alertness to maximize their earnings. The resulting exhaustion can lead to diminished concentration and slower reflexes, which make accidents far more likely.

Speeding or Rushed Driving

The pressure to quickly transport passengers from point A to point B can prompt some rideshare drivers to speed. Drivers might slightly exceed speed limits or rush through traffic signals to meet the expectations of fast service. Unfortunately, speeding can reduce a driver’s ability to respond to sudden obstacles, increase stopping distances, and raise the risk and severity of accidents.

Unfamiliar Roads and Areas

Rideshare drivers frequently operate in areas they don’t know well, which can lead to last-minute lane changes, abrupt turns, or unexpected stops along new routes. When drivers operate in unfamiliar parts of Tacoma or surrounding areas, they can encounter surprises at intersections or difficulties responding to unique traffic patterns. The uncertainty of navigating unfamiliar roads adds complexity to even routine trips and increases the chance of driver errors.

Impaired Driving from Medication or Fatigue

While most rideshare drivers operate responsibly, some might rely on medication to manage fatigue or other health conditions, which can impair driving skills. Many over-the-counter or prescription medications have side effects like drowsiness or delayed reaction times. Even when drivers use these drugs responsibly, they can impact alertness and make it harder to respond quickly to unexpected road hazards or sudden traffic changes.

Vehicle Maintenance Issues

Rideshare drivers put significant mileage on their vehicles, which can lead to increased wear on essential components like brakes, tires, and suspension systems. The financial demands of regular maintenance might also lead some drivers to delay repairs, which heightens the risk of mechanical failures. Poor vehicle maintenance can compromise safety and reduce a driver’s ability to avoid accidents, especially in emergencies.

Aggressive Driving due to High Demand Periods

Rideshare demand surges during peak times, such as weekends or special events, and many drivers feel pressure to complete trips quickly to take advantage of increased earnings. The resulting urgency can lead to aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving between lanes, or failing to yield. Actions like this can create hazardous situations, particularly on busy Tacoma streets with increased traffic congestion.

Limited Driving Experience

Some rideshare drivers are relatively new to driving or lack extensive experience navigating local roads. Inexperienced drivers often struggle to handle high-stress situations, anticipate hazards, or make quick decisions in heavy traffic. Limited experience can be especially problematic in complex or fast-paced driving environments, where split-second decisions are often necessary to prevent accidents.

Where Do Most Rideshare Accidents Happen in Tacoma?

Tacoma is a bustling city that presents many challenges for rideshare drivers. Certain locations tend to carry higher accident risks due to factors like high traffic volumes, complicated intersections, and frequent pedestrian crossings. Here are several key locations in Tacoma where rideshare accidents are particularly common.

Downtown Tacoma

With its dense concentration of businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues, downtown Tacoma sees constant rideshare activity, especially during peak hours and weekends. The area’s narrow streets, frequent traffic lights, and high pedestrian traffic increase crash risk.

Pacific Avenue Corridor

As a major arterial road running through Tacoma, Pacific Avenue is a primary route for both local traffic and rideshare drivers. The corridor connects residential and commercial hubs and draws steady traffic throughout the day, which adds to the potential for mishaps in this busy area.

I-5 Interchange at SR-16

The I-5 and SR-16 interchange near Tacoma is a key connector for commuters, rideshare drivers, and travelers heading to or from Seattle. The interchange experiences high traffic volumes and requires drivers to make quick decisions when merging or changing lanes, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with its layout.

Union Avenue and South 38th Street Intersection

Known for its high traffic volumes, the intersection of Union Avenue and South 38th Street poses notable risks for rideshare drivers. The busy crossing links residential neighborhoods to commercial areas, with multiple lanes of traffic and complex turn signals.

South Tacoma Way

South Tacoma Way stretches through residential and commercial areas and connects many neighborhoods with local businesses. The road’s frequent intersections and stop lights, along with nearby shops and restaurants, create an increased risk of rear-end and sideswipe wrecks.

6th Avenue District

Popular for its nightlife, the 6th Avenue District draws a mix of cars and pedestrians, particularly during evenings and weekends. Rideshare demand often spikes in this area as patrons move between bars, restaurants, and other venues.

Point Defiance Park Entrance

Point Defiance Park, a popular recreational spot, attracts a constant flow of visitors throughout the year. Rideshare drivers dropping off or picking up passengers near the park’s entrance face added challenges due to the steady mix of vehicles and pedestrians.

Why Rideshare Accident Cases Are So Complex

Rideshare accident cases often involve several unique factors that make them more challenging than standard car accident claims. One key complication involves determining liability, as multiple parties could potentially be responsible for a rideshare crash. Since rideshare drivers operate as independent contractors rather than direct employees, there is often uncertainty around the rideshare company’s level of responsibility.

Additionally, the timing of the accident plays a role in determining insurance coverage. Rideshare companies generally offer varying levels of insurance based on whether the driver is actively transporting a passenger, en route to pick up a passenger, or simply waiting for a ride request. The different coverage levels often lead to confusion about which insurance policy applies and how much compensation is available.

Rideshare accident cases also frequently involve significant documentation from both the rideshare platform and insurance companies. Accurate data on app usage, driver status, and the specifics of the ride are often essential to building a strong case. However, it can be challenging to access these data, especially when rideshare companies or insurance providers are hesitant to share information.

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Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

The nature and severity of the injuries from a rideshare accident can vary depending on factors like the speed, angle, and location of the impact. Common examples of rideshare accident injuries include:

  • Whiplash
  • Concussions
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Herniated discs
  • Fractures
  • Dislocations
  • Face and eye injuries
  • Dental injuries
  • Torn ligaments
  • Muscle strains
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Internal bleeding
  • Organ damage
  • Burns
  • Seat belt injuries
  • Airbag injuries
  • Nerve damage
  • Back injuries
  • Psychological trauma

How Insurance Coverage Works in Rideshare Accident Claims

The insurance structure for ridesharing services shifts based on the driver’s status. If a driver is not logged into a ridesharing app, their standard personal insurance coverage applies. If a driver is logged into a rideshare app but has not yet accepted a ride request, the policy must provide:

 

Once the driver accepts a ride request, the insurance requirements increase. During an active, prearranged ride with a passenger, the primary insurance policy must cover up to $1 million for liability, personal injury, and property damage. UM coverage requirements also increase during this period to $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident.

If, for any reason, the driver’s insurance does not provide these minimum coverage amounts, the rideshare company’s insurance must then step in, beginning with the first dollar of any claim.

Dealing with the Insurance Companies After a Rideshare Crash

Rideshare accident claims can present certain challenges, especially when you must deal with insurance companies or departments intent on reducing payouts. Insurers have many tactics to minimize or deny claims, which can complicate the process for those seeking fair compensation.

Common strategies include:

  • Questioning the extent of your injuries, disputing liability, and delaying the processing of claims.
  • Questioning the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
  • Arguing that their policies do not apply to the circumstances, which could reduce the amount of compensation available.

A rideshare accident lawyer from Freeman Law Firm, Inc. can help you overcome these obstacles by demanding fair treatment and challenging the insurance companies’ attempts to reduce your compensation.

Our experienced attorneys understand the policies governing rideshare insurance and can hold insurers accountable for their obligations to prevent unfair denials or reductions. Freeman Law Firm, Inc. offers experienced legal support to those involved in rideshare accidents and works hard to secure fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. With our help, you can face the insurance companies with the peace of mind that comes from knowing a professional team is dedicated to pursuing the results you deserve.

Contact A Rideshare Accident Attorney

If you are suffering from the effects of a Tacoma rideshare accident, Freeman Law Firm, Inc. understands the unique issues these cases involve and can handle every aspect of the claims process while you focus on your recovery. Contact us now at
(253) 383-4500 or online for your free consultation session to learn how we can protect your rights and secure the compensation you need.

Contact a Tacoma Rideshare Accident Attorney with Freeman Law Firm, Inc.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Renton or the surrounding areas, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact an experienced truck accident attorney, the better your chances of securing a fair settlement or verdict.

Freeman Law Firm, Inc. offers free initial consultations to help you understand your rights and options. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe any attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.

We are proud to represent victims of truck accidents in Renton, and we stand ready to help you, too. Call our Renton office today at (253) 383-4500 or use our contact form for a free, no obligation consultation to get started.

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Giving back and supporting our community is important to us. Upon the completion of your case, you will choose a charity to receive a 1% donation made exclusively from Freeman Law Firm, Inc. fees.
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