Uber currently has 131 million active monthly users, including those in Pittston. But when a car accident occurs involving an Uber, victims have concerns over their rights to compensation. This is where a Pittston Uber accident lawyer can help.
The personal injury lawyers of Munley Law represent car accident victims, including those involved in Uber accidents. For a no-obligation, free consultation, contact Munley Law today.
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What Are the Causes of an Uber Car Accident?
Uber car accidents, like any car accident, can occur due to various factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for preventing accidents and navigating legal issues in their aftermath. Common causes of Uber accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of all car accidents, distracted drivers may get occupied by their phones, GPS devices, or even conversations with passengers, leading to a lapse in attention and potential accidents.
- Fatigued Driving: Many Uber drivers work long hours, often in addition to other jobs. This can lead to fatigue and significantly impair reaction time, decision-making, and overall driving ability, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Some Uber drivers may resort to speeding or engaging in reckless driving behaviors to complete more rides within a shorter time frame. These actions can have fatal consequences.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Uber’s hiring process may sometimes result in the employment of drivers who are not adequately experienced in handling complex driving situations, which can lead to accidents.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Although Uber has specific vehicle standards in its service, continuous use without proper maintenance can lead to mechanical failures like brake problems or tire blowouts, causing accidents.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Heavy rain, snow, ice, or fog is common in Pittston and can create hazardous driving conditions. Drivers unfamiliar with these conditions or unprepared for them might be in accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Despite strict policies against it, there are instances where an Uber driver might be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, severely impairing their driving capabilities and increasing the risk of an accident.
- Road Conditions: Potholes, unclear road signs, and poorly designed intersections can contribute to accidents. These conditions can be particularly challenging for drivers unfamiliar with the local roads.
- Other Drivers’ Negligence: Sometimes, the cause of the accident may not be the Uber driver but other negligent drivers on the road. This includes erratic driving, not adhering to traffic rules, or aggressive driving behaviors from others.
- Technical Issues with the Uber App: There have been instances where technical glitches in the Uber app, such as GPS errors, have led to drivers being distracted or led astray, contributing to accidents.
Knowing what caused your Uber accident is critical for successful personal injury claims. As experts in this field, firms like Munley Law can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities arising from such situations.
Who Can Be Held Responsible For an Uber Accident in Pittston, PA?
Determining liability in an Uber car accident can be more complex than in standard auto accidents due to the involvement of multiple parties and the unique nature of rideshare services. Understanding who can be held liable is crucial for victims seeking compensation for damages and injuries. The potential liable parties in an Uber accident include:
- The Uber Driver: If the Uber driver is found to be at fault due to distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, they can be held liable. In such cases, their car insurance may be the primary source for claims, supplemented by Uber’s insurance, depending on the circumstances.
- Uber as a Company: Although Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors and not employees, there are situations where Uber can be held liable. This typically occurs if the accident was caused by a reason that can be traced back to the company’s policies or actions, such as issues with the app or negligent hiring practices.
- Another Driver: If another motorist’s negligence caused the accident, that driver can be held liable. In these instances, claims are usually made against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a vehicle defect or malfunction, such as brake failure or airbag issues, contributed to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer or the defective part could be liable under product liability laws.
- Government or Municipal Entities: In cases where poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or faulty traffic signals contributed to the accident, liability may extend to the government or municipal entities responsible for road maintenance and safety.
- Third-Party Companies: Sometimes, other companies may be involved, such as those responsible for vehicle maintenance or parts suppliers. If their negligence contributed to the accident, they could be held liable.
- Uber’s Insurance Policy: Uber provides varying levels of insurance coverage for accidents involving their drivers. The coverage depends on whether the driver was available, waiting for a ride request, or during a trip. This insurance can come into play if the driver’s insurance is insufficient.
- Passengers: Although rare, there are instances where passengers may bear some responsibility, such as if their actions directly contributed to the accident (e.g., distracting the driver).
Establishing liability in an Uber accident often requires a thorough investigation and understanding of rideshare laws and insurance policies. Legal representation, such as from firms like Munley Law, is crucial in navigating these complexities. They can help gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and hold all responsible parties accountable.
What Compensation is Available For Uber Accident Injury Victims?
Victims of Uber accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the nature and severity of their injuries, as well as the specifics of the accident. Understanding the types of compensation available is crucial for victims seeking to recover damages. The primary forms of compensation that may be available to Uber accident injury victims are:
- Medical Bills
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
- Pain and Suffering
- Property Damage
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Punitive Damages
- Wrongful Death and Survivor Benefits
Legal expertise in Pittston Uber car accidents is essential in accurately assessing and pursuing the full range of compensation to which a victim is entitled. A Pittston car accident lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies, gather necessary evidence, and represent the victim in court to ensure fair compensation is awarded.
Munley Law Pittston Car Accident Lawyers Represent Uber Accident Victims
If you or a loved one were involved in an Uber accident in Pittston PA, contact a Pittston Uber accident lawyer from Munley Law. Our attorneys have handled many car accidents in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and we will work hard to ensure your personal injury case is treated with the same dedication.
Call the Uber accident lawyers of Munley Law today for a no-obligation, free consultation.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
1170 PA-315
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
(570) 399-0406