Back to What We DoCHICAGO RIDESHARE ATTORNEYS
Fighting for the rights of passengers and drivers.
As ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft grow in popularity, legal issues linked to ride-hailing services continue to expand. It’s paramount to have safe drivers on the roadway, which means screening and vetting potential drivers should be a top priority for ridesharing companies. That’s not often the case. Women across the U.S. have filed lawsuits against Uber and Lyft in recent years after being sexually assaulted by drivers. A number of pending lawsuits argue rideshare companies do little to protect passengers and frequently mishandle sexual assault, sexual misconduct and rape complaints.
Ridesharing companies may be negligent in basic safety procedures like performing comprehensive criminal background checks or installing surveillance cameras, and a number of passengers with service animals have reported being denied rides.
Because almost all rideshare drivers use privately owned vehicles, Uber, Lyft and similar companies are not able to consistently monitor the cars, trucks, vans and SUVs their drivers use on a daily basis. Recent investigations have revealed an alarming number of vehicles used for rideshare purposes have open safety recalls.
Across the U.S., Uber and Lyft drivers have filed class action lawsuits arguing rideshare companies misclassify drivers as independent contractors to deny workers overtime pay and reimbursed expenses, among other employee rights. California in 2019 passed a landmark law that will require Uber, Lyft and similar app-based companies to hire workers as employees, not independent contractors, with some exceptions.
About Cavanagh Sorich Law Group
Cavanagh Sorich Law Group has obtained more than $650 million in verdicts and settlements in Illinois and across the United States. Our veteran trial attorneys are aggressive advocates who practice every facet of personal injury law and take on cases of all sizes. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win. At Cavanagh Sorich Law Group, we pride ourselves on attentive customer service and being there for families in their times of need. Our well respected, award-winning attorneys are available 24/7 for your questions and concerns. To schedule a free case evaluation, call 312-425-1900.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I was involved in a car accident?
Call the police immediately and file a police report. Even if the damage was minor, it is essential to document what happened with a law enforcement agency. Take photos at the scene.
Never admit fault. Your testimony could be used against you at a later date. While you are required to speak to police, there is no obligation to talk to another person’s attorney or insurance company. Avoid providing written or oral statements.
Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible — but don’t admit fault. Many insurance companies have rules requiring policyholders to report crashes within a certain timeframe. Check your policy to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Visit a doctor as soon as possible after the crash. Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, it is imperative that a medical professional documents your injuries.
Hire an attorney. Cavanagh Sorich Law Group’s team of veteran trial attorneys will help you obtain maximum benefits through meticulous research, proven strategy and expert testimony.
Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Illinois has comparative negligence laws, which allow injured parties to have some degree of fault in an accident and still recover reduced damages. The amount of money recovered may be proportional to the degree to which a person is at fault. Insurance companies make determinations following interviews with witnesses and involved parties and a thorough review of the accident report.
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?
Under Illinois law, people have two years from the date of an accident to file a lawsuit in civil court. That timeframe drops to one year if the claim is against a municipal government, such as a city or county.