Getting into a car accident is always a stressful and traumatic experience. But things can get even more complicated when the accident involves an Uber driver. That’s because Uber and Lyft accidents raise complex legal issues that traditional car accident lawyers may not be familiar with. If you’ve been injured in an accident with a rideshare driver, it’s essential to understand your rights and options. That’s where an Uber accident lawyer comes in.
You don’t have to suffer silently. Call Munley Law for a free consultation today. We will help you navigate a personal injury claim and get you back on your feet.
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Why Do Uber Car Accidents Happen?
Uber has become an incredibly popular way to get from point A to point B. While the app helps passengers travel easily, it also contributes to more road accidents. MIT research points to a spike in US traffic deaths linked to Uber and Lyft. Thousands are hurt or worse in Uber accidents each year, resulting in injuries, pain and suffering, and unforeseen medical expenses.
Even though Uber checks drivers’ records, a perfect driving history isn’t everything. Like regular drivers, Uber drivers face the same road risks that can lead to car accidents.
So, what are the common culprits?
- Driving while tired. Juggling multiple jobs or late-night shifts can leave Uber drivers fatigued. This impacts both alertness and reaction time, making them just as impaired as someone driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Distracted driving. Uber drivers use smartphones for directions, tracking their time, and arranging pick-ups. Being attached to a phone while on the road can cause distractions.
- Driving too fast. Whether rushing to get a passenger or picking one up, the pressure to be quick can tempt Uber drivers to push the speed limit.
- Inclement weather. If a driver is already on unfamiliar roads or constantly looking at an app for directions, inclement weather can be another variable you don’t need. From rain to snow and ice, poor weather conditions can be incredibly risky for Uber drivers to navigate.
- Drivers with little experience. As the rideshare economy grows, new drivers turn to Uber for extra side income or full-time employment. The common distractions can be even more dangerous if they haven’t been driving for as long.
Speak with an Uber accident lawyer near me.
Standards and Requirements For Uber Drivers
While they face everyday driving risks like anyone else, Uber drivers do have to meet specific standards to drive. These standards include:
- Uber drivers must be at least 21 or meet the city’s minimum driving age, whichever is higher.
- Have a valid driver’s license for at least one year (or three years if they are younger than 23).
- Give proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and a valid inspection.
- Pass a driving background check and safety screening.
It’s not just about the driver. Uber cars also have to meet their standards:
- Must have four-door vehicles.
- Must be less than 15 years old.
- Good working conditions.
When an Uber driver does not meet these required standards, they could face inevitable consequences, depending on the severity of the issue. They could receive a warning or be temporarily deactivated for a minor infraction, such as poor customer service or missed trips. However, if the violation is severe, the driver could be permanently deactivated.
Determining Fault in Rideshare Accident Cases
Identifying who is responsible in an Uber accident can be difficult, as many parties and insurance companies can be involved. Not only can the driver be held accountable, but the rideshare company could have contributed to the accident, as could the passenger.
To determine who may be at fault for the Uber crash, the following factors are taken into account:
- Driver Error: Uber drivers may be held liable for reckless driving, exceeding the speed limit, being distracted by their phone, driving while intoxicated, or simply failing to yield or observe traffic signals.
- Uber’s guidelines and practices: Uber has specific policies for its drivers to follow, including background checks, mandates for car upkeep, and insurance coverage. Uber might be held partially accountable if any of these policies were broken and resulted in the accident.
- Passenger behavior: Rarely, a passenger’s actions could cause a collision by diverting the driver’s attention or making it more difficult for them to control the car safely.
- External variables: Other drivers, pedestrians, poor road conditions, or malfunctioning vehicles can cause accidents.
To determine fault, rideshare accident lawyers must thoroughly investigate the accident. This means they will gather evidence — such as police reports, witness testimony, photos, videos from the accident scene, and Uber’s data from the driver’s app — to piece together the events that led to the crash.
Why You Need an Uber Accident Attorney After an Accident
Uber accident attorneys can help you through the claims process, stand up against the insurance companies, determine who is liable for the motor vehicle crash, and get you financial compensation for your injuries. Here is a breakdown of what a rideshare accident lawyer can do for your accident claim:
Understanding Insurance Claims: Depending on the sort of accident and the driver’s state at the time of the accident (either online, offline, or on their way to pick up a passenger), Uber offers different tiers of coverage. Determining which policy applies to you and how much coverage you are entitled to can be confusing. Our accident attorneys are skilled in navigating this complex legal system to ensure ambiguous terms or undiscovered loopholes do not exploit you.
Standing Up For Your Rights: Uber is a multibillion-dollar company with a group of seasoned attorneys. It can be scary to face them alone. An experienced lawyer evens the odds. They know Uber’s legal strategies and will fight hard to defend your rights, ensuring the business doesn’t take advantage of you or attempt to avoid taking responsibility.
Potential Third Party Claims: Sometimes it’s not the driver’s fault—the accident might be a car part that breaks down or a vehicle owned by a third party. To optimize your compensation, a personal injury attorney can look into the accident from a deeper level, find everyone who might be at fault, and bring claims against them.
Maximizing Your Compensation: A car accident can lead to various losses, such as hospital expenses, missed income, pain and suffering, and psychological distress. Our attorney is skilled at estimating these losses and constructing a compelling case to get you the entire compensation you are due, not just the insurance company’s lump sum offer.
Lifting the Weight Off Your Shoulders: An accident can cause physical and emotional stress in its wake. Dealing with paperwork, negotiations, and court cases can be very taxing. Our lawyer handles all legal matters related to your case, relieving you of this burden and allowing you to concentrate on your recovery and well-being.
Peace of Mind: Uber accidents may result in long-term issues, including chronic pain or incapacity. If necessary, a car accident lawyer can help ensure your demands are considered going forward and obtain continuous compensation.
There is no fee unless we win your case.
How Munley Law Fights for Maximum Compensation
At Munley Law, we have secured over $1 billion in compensation for clients throughout the United States since 1959, establishing ourselves as one of the most successful personal injury law firms. Our track record includes some of the largest settlements and verdicts in Pennsylvania history, including a $32.25 million settlement for a tragic airplane crash, a $20 million settlement for a commercial vehicle accident involving a pedestrian, and a $17.5 million jury verdict in teens’ death caused by a car accident.
Unlike some other injury attorneys, our board-certified trial lawyers have extensive experience in the courtroom. Munley Law has built a national reputation for our trial victories. We don’t just settle cases—we’re prepared to take every case to trial, which often results in better outcomes for our clients.
Our attorneys have consistently been named among the Best Lawyers in America, selected to Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, and are board-certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Lawdragon has recognized multiple Munley Law attorneys as among the country’s 500 Leading Consumer Plaintiffs Lawyers, representing the top 1 percent of the legal profession.
We are members of prestigious legal institutions such as the American Association for Justice, the Litigation Counsel of America, the International Society of Barristers, and the Summit Council. Marion Munley is the current Vice President of the American Association for Justice, and has been named a Top 10 Super Lawyer in Pennsylvania since 2023.
For over 65 years, we have been the voice for the injured, the forgotten, and those who need someone to stand beside them in their darkest hour. We believe that no one should face the aftermath of a serious accident alone, and we are committed to leveling the playing field between individual victims and large corporations or insurance companies. Our mission is simple: to provide all injury victims equal access to justice, even against the most powerful entities.
When you choose Munley Law, you’re choosing advocates with the experience, resources, and determination to take on insurance companies and corporations that may try to minimize your claim. We maintain the highest standards of legal excellence and professional integrity, honoring those who came before us while proudly continuing our family tradition of innovation, caring, and integrity.
With our unparalleled experience and fervor for the law, we have developed lasting relationships with our clients, who not only rely on us for legal expertise but also find comfort in our compassionate, responsive, and accessible counsel. Call now for a free consultation.
How Much Is My Case Worth?
Determining the worth of your accident case depends on many factors, like the severity of your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Some factors that determine the amount of compensation for an accident victim include:
The severity of your injuries: More severe injuries like broken bones, brain injuries, or spinal cord damage typically generate higher settlements than soft tissue injuries or a bump on the head.
- Medical expenses: The cost of your medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, and ongoing treatment, will be a significant factor in determining the value of your claim.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: This includes physical and emotional distress caused by the accident and can be a significant component of the settlement in some accident cases.
- Liability and evidence: Whether the Uber driver was clearly at fault and the strength of your proof will also play a role.
- State laws and insurance policies: Different states have varying rules and regulations regarding personal injury cases, and the insurance policy coverage limits will also impact the potential settlement amount.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uber Accidents
What evidence is important to collect at the scene of an Uber accident?
Collect evidence such as photos of the car accident injuries, the driver’s liability insurance details, witness statements, and documentation of traffic law violations. This information strengthens your insurance claims.
What damages are available after an Uber accident?
Accident victims may claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. An injury attorney can help navigate liability insurance and maximize your insurance claim.
What might I be entitled to if I’ve been injured in an Uber accident?
You may be entitled to coverage for car accident injuries, compensation through the driver’s insurance policy, and support for accident claims under personal injury law.
How can hiring an accident lawyer help with my Uber accident case?
An experienced Uber accident lawyer at Munley Law can assist with insurance claims, provide important testimony if needed, and ensure the responsible party’s insurance coverage fully compensates you for your injuries.
Munley Law Can Help
If you were involved in an accident with an Uber driver, you need an experienced injury attorney with the experience necessary to help you with your claim. For over 65 years, our personal injury law firm has been helping car accident victims throughout the U.S. with their claims. We understand the difficulties of a commercial vehicle accident, and we will walk you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait. Contact an Uber accident lawyer today to schedule a free consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case.