Yes, but courts rarely grant them in cases involving rideshare accidents. Most cases focus on compensatory damages, which cover a person’s losses due to the injuries they received. This can cover medical bills, property damage, lost wages or future earnings. It may also cover damages that are not as easy to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress and reduced quality of life.
When do courts award punitive damages?
Punitive damages serve two main purposes:
- To punish the person at fault for extremely reckless or intentional misconduct
- To prevent similar actions in the future by the person at fault and others
Illinois courts usually need “clear and convincing” evidence of willful and wanton conduct. This means that the person was aware that their actions could likely cause harm to others but continued to do them anyway. Although the state has no set limit on punitive damages, they must be fair and proportionate to the harm caused.
It is rare – but not impossible
Courts rarely grant punitive damages in personal injury cases involving rideshare accidents, but they may come up in cases where the defendant showed a deliberate disregard for others’ safety. This might include:
- The rideshare driver behaving recklessly, such as driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol or knowingly violating traffic laws
- The rideshare company consistently fails to use proper safety measures or ignores passenger safety in its policies or practices
- The driver or the company engaging in deliberate deception that led to harm or continuing a pattern of serious safety violations despite prior incidents or warnings
It’s important to note that the possibility of punitive damages depends on the particular facts and circumstances of each case. Moreover, the burden of proof falls on the person filing the claim. They need to show that the other party deliberately tried to hurt them or was extremely careless. They must also prove that their injuries or losses were due to the other party’s actions. To determine if your case might qualify for punitive damages, it’s best to consult with an attorney.
Every situation is different
Being involved in a rideshare accident can be a stressful and confusing experience, and you may be unsure about your rights or what steps to take next. However, know that legal guidance and support are available to help you explore your options.