By Eric A. Shore
As a lawyer who has been practicing here in Philadelphia for over twenty-five years, I have seen how a simple trip can change a person’s life in an instant. Imagine you are heading home from dinner in Center City, using a rideshare app for a safe and convenient ride. Suddenly, the sound of screeching tires and breaking glass shatters your evening. In the confusing moments after a crash, it is easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. But as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you have specific rights under Pennsylvania law, and understanding them is the first step toward recovery.
Why These Accidents Are a Different Story
The first thing I always tell people is that an accident in an Uber or Lyft is not like a typical car crash. The laws in Pennsylvania that govern these services, officially known as Transportation Network Companies, are designed to provide greater protection for passengers. For starters, these companies are required to carry substantial insurance policies, often providing up to $1 million in coverage for injuries that occur when a passenger is in the vehicle. This is a critical safety net that often is not available in accidents involving purely private vehicles.
Furthermore, as a paying passenger, you are automatically granted what we in the legal field call “full tort” protection. In plain English, this means you have the right to seek compensation not just for your medical bills and lost wages, but also for the real human cost of the accident. This includes the physical pain and the emotional distress that follow such a traumatic event, something that is not always an option under a standard auto insurance policy. The legal landscape is also more complex, as responsibility could lie with your driver, the driver of another vehicle, or a combination of factors, which is why navigating these claims requires a careful approach.
Understanding the Compensation You Deserve
When you are injured, the impact goes far beyond the initial hospital visit. A serious injury can affect your ability to work, to enjoy your hobbies, and even to spend time with your family. That is why compensation in these cases is meant to cover the full scope of your losses. We fight to recover costs for all your medical treatments, from the initial emergency room visit to any long-term physical therapy or rehabilitation you may need down the road. It also includes any wages you lost because you were unable to work. Just as importantly, we pursue compensation for your pain and suffering, recognizing that the physical and emotional toll is a very real and significant part of your injury. Our goal is to ensure you have the resources you need to rebuild your life, not just to pay your bills.
Critical First Steps After a Crash
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, the actions you take immediately after the accident can make a significant difference. First and foremost, your health is the priority, so seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Some injuries can take days to fully appear. Next, try to document everything you can. Use your phone to take pictures of the scene, the vehicles involved, and your injuries. Be sure to save the trip details from your rideshare app, as that is a key piece of evidence. If there are witnesses, get their names and phone numbers. Finally, be very careful about speaking with insurance company representatives. Their goal is to resolve the claim for the least amount of money possible. Before you give any recorded statements or accept any offers, you should understand all your legal options.
My team and I have spent decades helping people in the Philadelphia area navigate the aftermath of serious accidents. We understand the specific laws that apply to rideshare cases and have a proven record of holding negligent parties and their insurers accountable. While you focus on getting better, we handle the legal complexities. You should not have to face this challenge alone.
Take Action to Protect Your Future
Please remember that there are strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims in Pennsylvania. Waiting too long can jeopardize your right to get the compensation you need to move forward.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation to discuss your case. Call my office at 1-800-CANT-WORK or visit us online at 1800cantwork.com. Let us help you fight for the justice you deserve.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should contact the Law Offices of Eric A. Shore to consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
