Durham Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer

While rideshare accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, common causes include:

• Distracted driving: Rideshare drivers may be tempted to use their phones to navigate, accept new ride requests, or communicate with passengers, which can lead to dangerous distractions behind the wheel.
• Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, some work seven days a week, which can result in fatigue and impaired decision-making.
• Lack of experience: Some rideshare drivers may have limited experience operating a vehicle in a busy urban environment like Durham, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Poor vehicle maintenance: Rideshare companies are responsible for ensuring that their drivers' vehicles are well-maintained, but in some cases, this may not be the case.
• Inclement weather: Durham can experience a range of weather conditions, from heavy rain to fog, which can increase the risk of accidents if drivers do not adjust their driving accordingly.

Identifying the root cause of a rideshare accident is crucial for determining liability and maximizing your chances of a successful claim.

Who is Responsible for an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be a complex process, as multiple parties may be involved. In general, the responsible party(ies) could include:

• The rideshare driver: If the driver's negligence or reckless behavior was the primary cause of the accident, they may be held liable.
• The rideshare company: Uber and Lyft have a responsibility to ensure that their drivers are properly trained, licensed, and insured. If they fail to do so, they may be held liable for any resulting accidents.
• A third-party driver: If the accident was caused by the negligence of another driver on the road, they may be held responsible.
• A vehicle manufacturer: In some cases, a defect in the rideshare vehicle itself may have contributed to the accident, in which case the manufacturer may be liable.

Navigating these complex liability issues requires the expertise of an experienced Durham rideshare accident lawyer who can thoroughly investigate the accident and identify all responsible parties.

Common Injuries in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more serious, life-altering conditions. Some of the most common injuries I've seen in my practice include:

• Traumatic brain injuries: The sudden impact of a collision can cause serious head trauma, leading to cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Broken bones: Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or other bones are a common consequence of rideshare accidents.
• Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and other soft tissue damage can cause significant pain and disrupt daily activities.
• Internal injuries: The force of an impact can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent.

Regardless of the severity of your injuries, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention and work with a skilled Durham Lyft & Uber accident lawyer to help you seek the maximum compensation that you may be entitled to.

Common Rideshare Accident Locations in Durham, NC

Durham is a sprawling city with a complex network of roads, highways, and intersections, all of which can be potential sites for rideshare accidents. Some of the areas encountered as particularly hazardous for rideshare travelers include:

• Busy downtown intersections: The high concentration of traffic, pedestrians, and rideshare vehicles in downtown Durham can create a perfect storm for collisions.
• Major highways and freeways: Accidents can happen on busy thoroughfares like the I-440, I-40, I-85, I-95, and local freeways, often due to factors like distracted driving or lane changes.
• Crowded college and tourist areas: Locations Duke University are popular destinations for rideshare users, but the heavy foot and vehicle traffic can increase the risk of accidents by rideshare and other drivers.
• Poorly lit or maintained roads: Certain neighborhoods or roads in Durham may have inadequate lighting or infrastructure, making them more dangerous for rideshare drivers and passengers.
• Construction zones: Ongoing construction projects can create hazardous conditions and unexpected obstacles for rideshare vehicles.

By being aware of these high-risk areas, rideshare users can take steps to stay safe and be prepared in the event of an accident.

How Does Contributory Negligence Impact My Rideshare Accident Claim?

California follows a contributory negligence system, which means that your own actions or negligence can impact the amount of compensation you're able to recover. If it's determined that you were partially responsible for the accident, your damages will likely be barred, meaning a victim determined to be contributorily negligent may not be able to recover anything for their damages. 

An experienced Durham rideshare accident lawyer can help you understand the contributory negligence principles and work to minimize the impact on your claim.