Editorial disclosure: This website is owned and operated by Phillips Law Offices. The firms listed on this site are selected and described by the site’s editors, not by an independent third-party rating service. Phillips Law Offices is featured prominently as the site’s owner.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how Chicago residents travel. Whether commuting to work, heading to O’Hare Airport, or navigating the city’s busy nightlife, millions rely on these convenient transportation options every day. However, with this convenience comes risk. Rideshare accidents are increasing across Chicago, leaving passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and other motorists with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and complex legal challenges. Understanding your rights after an Uber or Lyft accident is essential to securing the compensation you deserve.

Rideshare accident claims are more complicated than typical car accident cases. Multiple insurance policies, corporate liability questions, and evolving worker classification laws create layers of complexity that require specialized legal knowledge. This guide highlights the best Uber/Lyft accident lawyers in Chicago who can navigate these challenges and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Why Uber and Lyft Accidents Are Different

Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes involve unique legal considerations that can significantly impact your claim. Understanding these differences is critical to protecting your rights.

Multiple insurance policies – Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of coverage depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or actively transporting a passenger.
Complex liability questions – Determining who is responsible may involve the rideshare company, the driver, another motorist, or even a vehicle manufacturer.
Evolving worker classification – Under Illinois’ 2024 Worker Classification Law (HB 2866, effective January 2025), many rideshare drivers now qualify as employees rather than independent contractors for liability, insurance, and benefits purposes. This change expands Uber and Lyft’s vicarious liability for driver vetting, training, and coverage, potentially strengthening claims against the rideshare companies themselves.
Corporate legal teams – Uber and Lyft have extensive legal resources dedicated to minimizing payouts and protecting their interests.

These factors make it essential to work with an attorney who understands rideshare accident law and has experience dealing with these powerful corporations.

Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents in Chicago

Rideshare accidents occur for many of the same reasons as other vehicle collisions, but certain factors are more prevalent in rideshare situations:

Distracted driving – Rideshare drivers frequently use their phones to accept rides, navigate, and communicate with passengers, increasing the risk of distraction.
Driver fatigue – Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive for multiple platforms, leading to exhaustion and impaired reaction times.
Unfamiliar routes – Drivers may be unfamiliar with certain neighborhoods or rely heavily on GPS, causing sudden stops or unsafe maneuvers.
Pressure to complete rides quickly – The rating system and incentive structure can encourage drivers to speed or take risks.
Unsafe pickups and drop-offs – Stopping in traffic lanes, double-parking, or pulling over in dangerous locations leads to collisions with other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians.
Impaired driving – Although rideshare companies conduct background checks, some drivers operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Vehicle maintenance issues – Not all rideshare vehicles are properly maintained, leading to mechanical failures.

Common Injuries from Rideshare Accidents

Victims of Uber and Lyft accidents can suffer a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Internal organ damage
Cuts, lacerations, and scarring
Psychological trauma, including PTSD and anxiety

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work. An experienced rideshare accident lawyer ensures that all current and future damages are accounted for in your claim.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

Period 1: App is on, waiting for a ride request

Contingent third-party liability coverage ($50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage) – but this coverage only applies if the driver’s personal auto insurance denies the claim
If the driver’s personal insurance covers the accident, Uber/Lyft coverage does not apply during this period
This is the most limited coverage period, making it critical to investigate all available insurance sources

Period 2: Ride request accepted, en route to pick up passenger

$1 million in liability coverage from Uber or Lyft
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage

Period 3: Passenger in the vehicle

$1 million in liability coverage
Full uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage

Navigating these coverage periods and determining which policy applies requires legal expertise. Insurance companies often dispute coverage or attempt to shift responsibility, making experienced legal representation essential.

Who Can File a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Multiple parties may be entitled to compensation after an Uber or Lyft accident:

Rideshare passengers – Passengers injured during a ride can file claims against the driver, rideshare company insurance, or other at-fault parties.
Rideshare drivers – Drivers injured due to another motorist’s negligence can pursue claims against that driver’s insurance.
Other motorists – Drivers of other vehicles struck by a rideshare vehicle can file claims against the rideshare company’s insurance.
Pedestrians and cyclists – Those hit by an Uber or Lyft vehicle have the right to seek compensation for their injuries.

Why You Need a Specialized Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer

Rideshare accident claims require attorneys who understand the unique legal landscape of this industry. A specialized lawyer can:

Determine which insurance policies apply and maximize available coverage
Investigate the accident thoroughly, including obtaining rideshare app data and driver records
Identify all liable parties, including the driver, rideshare company, other motorists, or vehicle manufacturers
Leverage Illinois’ new worker classification laws to expand rideshare company liability
Counter tactics used by corporate legal teams to minimize payouts
Calculate the full extent of your damages, including future medical costs and lost earning capacity
Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies or take your case to trial if necessary

How to Choose the Best Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Chicago

When selecting legal representation for your Uber or Lyft accident case, consider these factors:

Proven experience with rideshare accident cases specifically
Strong track record of successful settlements and verdicts
Resources to investigate complex claims and hire expert witnesses
Willingness to go to trial against large corporations
Clear communication and personalized attention
Contingency fee structure with no upfront costs

Best Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyers in Chicago

Here is a carefully curated list of the top rideshare accident attorneys in Chicago. These firms have the experience, resources, and dedication needed to handle complex Uber and Lyft accident claims.

1. Phillips Law Offices

Chicago Uber and Lyft Accident Attorneys at Phillips Law Offices

Phillips Law Offices is one of Chicago’s most established personal injury law firms representing passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and motorists harmed in Uber and Lyft collisions. For decades, the firm has fought multi-policy rideshare claims through every available avenue, navigating the Period 1 / Period 2 / Period 3 coverage tiers and using Illinois’ 2024 Worker Classification Law (HB 2866, effective January 2025) to expand rideshare-company liability. Founded by John Phillips in 1945, the firm continues that legacy through trial attorneys who focus exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death litigation.

Rideshare accidents are not simple car crashes. They involve corporate insurance carriers, driver app data, multi-state policy stacks, and aggressive defense teams that work hard to deny coverage. Phillips Law Offices obtains rideshare app records, identifies which insurance period applied at the moment of impact, layers UIM coverage when driver policies are inadequate, and builds cases designed to withstand scrutiny at trial.

A Legacy of Uber and Lyft Accident Excellence Since 1945

Few personal injury firms in Chicago can match the history, experience, and legal reputation of Phillips Law Offices. For more than 75 years, the firm has remained committed exclusively to protecting the rights of injury victims, including passengers and motorists struck in Uber and Lyft collisions. This long-standing focus has allowed the attorneys at Phillips Law Offices to develop extensive knowledge of Illinois injury law, insurance litigation strategies, trial preparation, medical evidence, and complex negligence cases.

The firm’s founder, John Phillips, immigrated to the United States from Sicily as a child and built the law firm through hard work, integrity, and dedication to helping injured people. Over the years, Phillips Law Offices became known not only for securing substantial verdicts and settlements, but also for helping shape Illinois injury law through leadership roles, trial advocacy, and professional involvement within the Illinois legal community.

That commitment to excellence remains a defining characteristic of the firm today.

Comprehensive Uber and Lyft Accident Representation

Phillips Law Offices handles nearly every type of rideshare accident and wrongful death case in Chicago and throughout Illinois. The firm’s attorneys understand that a serious injury can change every aspect of a person’s life physically, emotionally, and financially. Their legal team aggressively pursues compensation designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, disability, long-term care, and future financial losses.

The firm regularly represents clients in cases involving:

Uber and Lyft passenger injury claims
Rideshare driver injury claims against other motorists
Pedestrian and cyclist strikes by rideshare vehicles
Multi-policy coverage disputes (Period 1/2/3)
Worker Classification Law (HB 2866) liability claims
Unsafe pickup and drop-off collisions
Distracted rideshare driver crashes
Drowsy and fatigued rideshare driver cases
Impaired rideshare driver collisions
Background-check failure claims against Uber/Lyft
Vehicle maintenance failure claims
Catastrophic rideshare wrongful death matters
Spinal cord and traumatic brain injury rideshare cases
Underinsured and uninsured motorist rideshare claims

Their attorneys have experience handling both straightforward injury claims and highly complex litigation involving catastrophic injuries and permanent disabilities.

Proven Results in High-Value Uber and Lyft Accident Cases

Phillips Law Offices has secured significant verdicts and settlements for rideshare accident victims and their families throughout Illinois. The firm’s track record reflects decades of aggressive advocacy and courtroom success against powerful defendants and insurance companies.

$25 Million Dram Shop Wrongful Death Verdict

Phillips Law Offices obtained a $25 million verdict for a widow whose husband of 40 years was struck and killed by a drunk driver after two restaurants overserved the intoxicated driver. The case is a landmark for vulnerable road user litigation and demonstrates how the firm holds overserving establishments accountable, the same principle that applies when impaired Uber or Lyft drivers cause catastrophic harm.

$5 Million Commercial Vehicle Wrongful Death

The firm secured a $5 million settlement for the spouse of a 53-year-old killed in a collision involving a commercial truck. The case proceeded through trial and resolved after closing arguments, illustrating the firm’s ability to apply commercial-carrier liability frameworks to rideshare and gig-economy vehicles.

$1.5 Million Negligent Driver Wrongful Death

Phillips Law Offices recovered $1.5 million for the family of a man killed by the negligence of another commercial driver. The matter demonstrates the firm’s ability to investigate driver behavior, app and trip records, and roadside evidence in fatal cases.

$550,000 Vehicle Collision Recovery

The firm secured $550,000 for a 32-year-old broadsided in an auto collision who required back surgery. The case settled after three weeks of trial, reflecting the firm’s willingness to take rideshare and auto cases the distance when carriers refuse fair offers.

These results reflect the firm’s commitment to pursuing maximum compensation for rideshare accident victims facing devastating injuries and losses.

Respected Trial Attorneys in Chicago

One of the reasons Phillips Law Offices is consistently recognized among the top rideshare accident law firms in Chicago is its reputation for trial advocacy. Insurance carriers and defense attorneys know the firm is fully prepared to take cases to court when fair settlement offers are not made.

While many firms prioritize quick settlements, Phillips Law Offices approaches each rideshare accident case with the expectation that it may ultimately proceed to trial. This litigation-focused strategy often strengthens the firm’s negotiating position and allows its attorneys to pursue better outcomes for clients.

The attorneys at Phillips Law Offices are known for:

Thorough investigation and evidence preservation
Strategic litigation preparation
Aggressive courtroom advocacy
Detailed medical and damages analysis
Effective negotiation with insurers
Strong jury trial experience
Client-focused representation

Their experience handling complex rideshare accident litigation has helped establish the firm as a trusted name throughout the Chicago legal community.

Meet the Attorneys at Phillips Law Offices

Stephen D. Phillips

Stephen D. Phillips is widely recognized for his work representing victims in catastrophic injury and wrongful death litigation throughout Illinois. Known for his courtroom skill, compassion for clients, and extensive litigation experience, Stephen Phillips has helped continue the firm’s longstanding reputation for excellence in personal injury law.

Stephen J. Phillips

Stephen J. Phillips continues the family legacy of trial advocacy at Phillips Law Offices, representing injury victims and grieving families in serious personal injury and wrongful death matters. He is known for thorough case preparation, strong client communication, and a steady focus on building cases that withstand scrutiny at trial.

Terrence M. Quinn

Terrence M. Quinn brings substantial trial experience to the litigation team at Phillips Law Offices, with a practice focused on catastrophic injury, medical negligence, and wrongful death cases. Clients consistently praise his thorough preparation, courtroom presence, and commitment to pursuing maximum compensation for serious injuries.

Michael J. Phillips

Michael J. Phillips has earned praise from clients for his communication, professionalism, and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes. He works closely with injury victims throughout every stage of the legal process and is known for keeping clients informed while aggressively protecting their interests.

Alec D. Mesrobian

Alec D. Mesrobian has developed a strong reputation for handling complex injury litigation with professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail. Clients consistently praise his strategic guidance, thorough preparation, and commitment to achieving successful resolutions.

Together, the attorneys at Phillips Law Offices bring generations of combined legal experience to every case they handle.

What Clients Say About Phillips Law Offices

Phillips Law Offices has earned outstanding reviews from injury victims and clients throughout Chicago who consistently praise the firm’s professionalism, communication, legal knowledge, and compassionate representation.

One client, Dani Berny, praised attorney Michael Phillips for consistently providing updates throughout her personal injury case and ensuring she always felt confident that her legal team was acting in her best interests. She also highlighted the firm’s professionalism, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of injury law.

Another client, Khaled Aboushaala, described attorney Alec D. Mesrobian’s representation as “exceptional in every respect,” noting that the case progressed efficiently once Alec assumed representation and praising his organization, responsiveness, and strategic judgment.

Marge S. commended Alec Mesrobian and Amanda Daliege for guiding her family through the legal process step-by-step while answering every question thoroughly and patiently.

Brandon DeWitt referred to Phillips Law Offices as home to some of the “best, skilled, elite personal injury attorneys in Chicago,” praising the firm’s compassion, responsiveness, and decades of experience helping injured victims.

Sasha Spektor described the caliber of talent at Phillips Law Offices as “unmatched,” specifically recognizing Stephen Phillips for his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to clients.

Reagan Tokoly highlighted Michael Phillips’ clear communication and willingness to explain every stage of the process in detail following an accident case that resulted in a highly favorable outcome.

“I highly recommend Phillips Injury Attorneys of Chicago for anyone that needs a highly skilled injury lawyer in Chicago. Stephen Phillips has an amazing record of providing great representation throughout the greater Chicagoland area. If you’re living in Chicago, you should know about Stephen and his firm’s abilities to help people that have been involved in an accident. If I was ever in an accident, I would call Stephen Phillips.”

– Darrell Blue

These testimonials reflect the trust and confidence many clients place in Phillips Law Offices during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Client-Focused Representation

What truly distinguishes Phillips Law Offices from many other personal injury firms is its client-centered approach. The firm understands that a rideshare collision affects not only the victim, but the entire family. Because of this, their attorneys prioritize communication, accessibility, compassion, and personalized legal support throughout every case.

Clients are never treated like numbers or files. Instead, the firm takes time to understand each client’s injuries, concerns, financial challenges, and long-term needs. The attorneys at Phillips Law Offices remain accessible throughout the legal process and work closely with clients to ensure they understand every available legal option.

The firm also operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no attorney fees unless compensation is successfully recovered. Free consultations are available for injury victims seeking guidance after serious accidents or acts of negligence.

Deep Roots in Chicago and Illinois

Phillips Law Offices has represented injury victims throughout Chicago, Cook County, and communities across Illinois for generations. Their attorneys possess extensive familiarity with local courts, judges, insurance defense tactics, and Illinois personal injury statutes.

From downtown surge-pricing pickup zones to airport rideshare lots and suburban drop-off corridors, the firm’s experience handling cases throughout Illinois provides clients with a significant advantage against Uber, Lyft, and their insurance carriers.

Their longstanding reputation in the Chicago legal community reflects decades of dedicated advocacy, successful litigation, and commitment to helping injury victims rebuild their lives after devastating accidents.

Why Clients Choose Phillips Law Offices for Chicago Uber and Lyft Accident Cases

Phillips Law Offices continues to be recognized among Chicago’s leading rideshare accident law firms because of its:

More than 75 years of legal experience
Exclusive focus on personal injury and wrongful death
Proven record of significant verdicts and settlements
Highly respected trial attorneys
Strong client reviews and testimonials
Compassionate client-centered representation
Extensive rideshare accident litigation experience
Deep knowledge of Illinois rideshare law and the 2024 Worker Classification Law
Commitment to maximizing compensation for clients
Longstanding reputation within the Chicago legal community

For individuals and families seeking experienced legal representation after a serious injury, Phillips Law Offices remains one of the most trusted and accomplished personal injury firms in Chicago.

Every case is evaluated on its own facts, and prior results do not predict future outcomes.

Contact Phillips Law Offices

Address: 161 N Clark St, #4925, Chicago, Illinois 60601
Phone: (312) 346-4262
Website: phillipslawoffices.com

2. Clifford Law Offices

Nationally Recognized Personal Injury Advocates

Clifford Law Offices brings national recognition and extensive resources to rideshare accident cases. Their attorneys have experience handling complex multi-party litigation and are prepared to take on major corporations when necessary. The firm’s meticulous approach to investigation and case preparation has resulted in significant verdicts and settlements for accident victims.

Known for their commitment to client advocacy, Clifford Law Offices provides comprehensive legal support from initial consultation through resolution. Their team works with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and economists to build compelling cases that reflect the full impact of clients’ injuries.

3. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

Dedicated Rideshare Accident Representation

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers has developed significant expertise in rideshare accident claims, representing victims injured in Uber and Lyft collisions across Chicago. The firm understands the complexities of rideshare insurance coverage and works diligently to ensure clients receive maximum compensation from all available sources.

Their client-focused approach emphasizes clear communication, thorough case evaluation, and aggressive negotiation. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is prepared to litigate cases when insurance companies refuse fair settlements, giving clients confidence that their rights will be fully protected.

4. Power Rogers & Smith

High-Stakes Injury Litigation Experts

Power Rogers & Smith is renowned for handling catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, including those arising from rideshare accidents. Their attorneys bring decades of trial experience and have secured numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts for clients. The firm has the resources and expertise to take on large corporations and their legal teams.

Clients working with Power Rogers & Smith benefit from strategic legal planning, thorough investigation, and relentless advocacy. The firm’s reputation for courtroom success often motivates insurance companies to offer fair settlements rather than face trial.

5. Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C.

Record-Setting Verdicts for Accident Victims

Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard has earned recognition for achieving record-setting verdicts in personal injury cases throughout Illinois. Their attorneys handle complex rideshare accident claims with the same dedication and skill that has made them one of Chicago’s most respected injury law firms.

The firm combines thorough case preparation with aggressive courtroom advocacy. They work closely with clients to understand the full impact of their injuries and pursue compensation that addresses both immediate needs and long-term consequences.

6. Abels & Annes, P.C.

Compassionate Advocates for Rideshare Victims

Abels & Annes has extensive experience representing victims of rideshare accidents, from minor collisions to serious injury cases. The firm emphasizes personalized service, ensuring that every client receives individual attention and strategic legal guidance tailored to their specific situation.

Their attorneys conduct detailed investigations, identify all liable parties, and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies. Abels & Annes is committed to helping clients recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

7. Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.

Focused Representation for Transportation Accidents

Staver Accident Injury Lawyers handles a wide range of transportation accident cases, including Uber and Lyft collisions. The firm is known for strong client communication, thorough case evaluation, and effective negotiation strategies that maximize compensation for victims.

Their attorneys understand the unique insurance issues involved in rideshare cases and work diligently to navigate coverage disputes. Staver Accident Injury Lawyers provides dedicated support throughout the legal process, keeping clients informed and involved at every stage.

8. Malman Law

Thorough Investigation and Strong Results

Malman Law has built a reputation for conducting thorough investigations and achieving strong results in personal injury cases. Their rideshare accident practice focuses on gathering critical evidence, including app data, driver records, and witness statements, to build compelling claims.

The firm provides personalized attention to each client, ensuring that individual circumstances and needs are addressed throughout the legal process. Malman Law’s combination of detailed preparation and aggressive advocacy makes them a trusted choice for rideshare accident victims.

9. The Kryder Law Group, LLC

Accessible and Client-Focused Legal Support

The Kryder Law Group offers accessible, client-focused representation for rideshare accident victims. Their attorneys take time to understand each client’s situation and develop tailored legal strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Known for their approachable style and commitment to communication, The Kryder Law Group guides clients through the complexities of rideshare insurance claims and litigation. They work on a contingency fee basis, ensuring that legal representation is available to all accident victims regardless of financial circumstances.

10. Ankin Law

Comprehensive Personal Injury Representation

Ankin Law handles a broad range of personal injury cases, with significant experience in transportation and rideshare accidents. Their attorneys are skilled at navigating the multiple insurance policies involved in Uber and Lyft claims and work to maximize recovery for clients.

The firm emphasizes proactive communication and client education, ensuring that victims understand their rights and options at every stage. Ankin Law’s comprehensive approach covers everything from initial investigation through settlement or trial.

11. Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates

Over a Century of Legal Excellence

With more than a century of combined legal experience, Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates brings deep knowledge and proven expertise to rideshare accident cases. The firm has adapted to the evolving transportation landscape and understands the unique challenges posed by Uber and Lyft claims.

Their attorneys provide dedicated representation, handling everything from insurance negotiations to courtroom litigation. Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates is committed to achieving justice for rideshare accident victims throughout Chicago.

12. Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers

Aggressive Advocacy for Maximum Compensation

Willens & Baez focuses on securing maximum compensation for accident victims, including those injured in rideshare collisions. Their attorneys are known for aggressive advocacy and willingness to take cases to trial when insurance companies refuse fair settlements.

The firm provides personalized support throughout the legal process, helping clients navigate medical treatment, insurance claims, and legal proceedings. Willens & Baez’s commitment to client success has earned them a strong reputation in Chicago’s personal injury community.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of Uber and Lyft accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

Current and future medical expenses
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress and psychological trauma
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Property damage
Loss of enjoyment of life
Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

An experienced attorney will evaluate the full impact of your injuries and pursue damages that reflect both economic and non-economic losses.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:

Seek medical attention immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional.
Report the accident – Notify police and file an official accident report.
Document everything – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
Get driver and witness information – Collect names, contact details, and insurance information.
Screenshot the ride details – Preserve information from your Uber or Lyft app showing the driver, route, and trip status.
Report to the rideshare company – File an accident report through the app.
Avoid giving recorded statements – Don’t provide statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.
Contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer – Get legal guidance as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Protecting Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare accidents can leave victims facing serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and complicated insurance battles. The unique legal challenges of Uber and Lyft claims require attorneys who understand this evolving area of law and have the resources to take on powerful corporations.

Firms like Phillips Law Offices lead with experience, results, and unwavering client commitment. Their attorneys fight to ensure that rideshare accident victims receive full compensation for their injuries, allowing them to focus on healing while their legal team handles the complexities of their case.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Chicago, don’t wait to seek legal help. Time limits apply to injury claims, and critical evidence can be lost if action isn’t taken promptly. Contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer today to protect your rights and begin the path to recovery.