Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers

A rideshare accident in Mt. Pleasant can turn your life upside down without warning. After an Uber or Lyft crash, the last thing you want to worry about is navigating complicated insurance claims and legal battles. Rideshare accidents are not like regular car crashes—you need a legal team that understands the unique regulations governing rideshare incidents in Mt. Pleasant.

Why Uber and Lyft Accidents Are Complicated

Unlike typical fender-benders involving one insurance company, Uber and Lyft accidents often involve multiple insurance policies that apply depending on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. Were they simply driving around with the app on, heading to pick up a passenger, or actively giving someone a ride?

In South Carolina, Uber and Lyft are classified as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), meaning they follow different rules than taxis. This distinction affects how insurance claims are processed and who may be responsible for paying medical bills.

Are Uber and Lyft Accidents Increasing in Mt. Pleasant?

Mt. Pleasant has experienced rapid growth, leading to heavier traffic on roads like Highway 41 and U.S. Route 17. Rideshare drivers navigating busy intersections while managing GPS and ride requests face heightened risks, especially during rush hour.

Studies show that a majority of Charleston-area rideshare drivers feel unsafe in certain high-traffic areas. Constantly checking phones for rides, maps, and passenger messages increases the likelihood of accidents.

How Does Insurance Work in Rideshare Accidents?

• If the driver’s app is off, you are limited to their personal car insurance, which typically offers minimal coverage.
• If the driver is logged in but hasn’t accepted a ride, Uber and Lyft provide limited coverage—usually around $50,000 per person.
• Your best coverage applies when the driver has accepted your ride or is actively transporting you, with up to $1 million available. Accessing this coverage can be challenging, as rideshare companies and insurers often aim to minimize payouts.

What Are Common Injuries in Rideshare Crashes?

Mt. Pleasant roads, including two-lane highways without median barriers like Highway 41, make head-on collisions more likely. These accidents often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue damage that can take months or years to heal.

Medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs can be overwhelming. South Carolina law also limits the timeframe for filing a personal injury claim to three years, so timely action is crucial.

When Do You Need a Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer?

The sooner you involve an attorney, the better your chances of obtaining fair compensation. Rideshare companies employ investigators who work immediately to limit payouts and may offer quick settlements that fall short of covering your actual expenses.

Start documenting everything: trip details, accident scene photos, and contact information for all parties involved. An experienced lawyer can guide you through this process and handle negotiations with insurance companies while you focus on recovery.

Evidence Needed for a Strong Case

A solid case requires police reports, medical records, and digital rideshare evidence. The Uber or Lyft app stores critical trip details: driver name, route, timestamps, and GPS data. Collect contact information from other passengers as well.

What Are South Carolina Rideshare Laws?

South Carolina requires TNCs to maintain commercial insurance, conduct driver background checks, and keep detailed records of trips, drivers, and vehicle inspections. These regulations provide accountability that does not exist with private drivers, and violations can be grounds for additional compensation.

What Should I Avoid Doing After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Mt. Pleasant?

• Do not accept a quick settlement offer without consulting a lawyer.
• Avoid posting about the accident on social media.
• Never give recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal representation.

Why You Need an Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare accidents are more complex than typical car crashes, and having an attorney who understands these nuances can make all the difference in your case. Our firm has experience navigating the unique challenges posed by Uber and Lyft claims, including multiple insurance policies, corporate liability defenses, and digital evidence retrieval from apps.

An experienced attorney can:

• Identify all potential sources of compensation, including Uber or Lyft’s insurance, the driver’s personal policy, and third-party liability.
• Gather and preserve critical evidence like GPS data, app logs, and ride receipts that can strengthen your claim.
• Handle communications with insurance adjusters, ensuring that you do not inadvertently accept less than you deserve.
• Advise you on medical documentation and expert evaluations necessary to prove the full extent of your injuries.
• Represent you in negotiations or court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

With professional legal guidance, you can focus on recovery while your legal team fights on your behalf.

Get Legal Help from Our Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman, LLC

At Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC, we fight for clients injured in rideshare accidents. With millions recovered in settlements and lawsuits, you do not have to face your accident alone. Call our Mt. Pleasant Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at 843-727-6500 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, we serve clients throughout South Carolina.