Many times when an accident occurs, the person responsible is not always held accountable - especially in cases of catastrophic injuries. This is because the legal process can be complex and difficult to navigate. But, when it comes to rideshares, like Uber, those who are injured are often able to receive the maximum financial compensation for their injuries.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an Uber auto accident, a Decatur accident attorney can help you to obtain the compensation that is due. Here are the most important things you should understand.
Uber Accident Statistics
An Uber accident is a motor vehicle accident involving a rideshare driver and another party. This type of collision can involve both cars, as well as motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, and pedestrians. More so, Uber accidents may be caused by distracted driving, negligent actions, dangerous roads, or the fault of another driver.
Whether the accident is minor or catastrophic in nature, an Uber accident attorney in Decatur can help victims to get the compensation they rightfully deserve when a personal injury lawsuit is initiated.
Though as many as 1,000,000 car accidents occur each day in the United States, Uber accidents are a bit different from any other type of motor vehicle accident. Uber's 2019-2020 Safety Report revealed that 101 fatalities occurred in 91 accidents related to the ride-sharing service. The majority of these crashes, 32%, involved a vehicle that was speeding.
The next leading cause of these Uber accidents and fatal crashes was alcohol-impaired driving (23%). Vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians (64%), motorcyclists (29%), and bicyclists or scooter riders (7%) were among those involved in these collisions.
What this goes to demonstrate is that Uber accidents can result from a variety of causes. Even if an Uber driver is not the cause of an accident, they may still be held liable for the damages incurred. When an Uber driver is involved in an accident, the company's commercial insurance policy often takes precedence over the driver’s personal auto insurance.
That is why it is so important to speak with an attorney with experience in accident lawsuits who thoroughly understands the legal process and can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Leading Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents?
When it comes to Uber and Lyft accidents, the most common types of collisions are rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, lane changes, and distracted driving. In some cases, the driver may be held liable and in other instances, the rideshare company or one of its employees can be found responsible. It is important to get an experienced attorney to analyze the evidence, review police reports and medical records, and determine who is at fault.
Learn More: What to Do if You Are Hit By a Rideshare Driver
Also, on a daily basis, careless actions, drunk driving, or driver errors could result in an auto collision and fatal accident with a wide range of vehicles. It is important to remember that the right attorney can help to make sure that the responsible party is held accountable for their actions.
Who Can Be Found Liable in an Uber Accident?
There are several people or entities that may be held liable in an Uber accident. If the driver is at fault, they may be responsible for the damages. This can be determined in the police report, as well as through eyewitness accounts and video recordings. Other potential parties may include the Uber driver’s employer, rideshare companies such as Uber or Lyft, and other negligent drivers.
Furthermore, the city where the accident occurred may also be responsible for damages if poor road conditions, such as potholes or unsafe construction sites, contributed to the crash. Having an experienced Uber accident lawyer review all the evidence is important to determine who is at fault and liable for damages.
What Type of Compensation Can I Seek in an Uber Accident?
When a person is injured in an Uber accident, they may be entitled to receive fair compensation for medical care, emotional distress, mental anguish, major injuries, and financial losses associated with the accident.
Depending on the severity of the injuries, such injury victims may be able to seek compensation for things such as medical bills for medical treatment and lost wages, as well as additional damages for pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney can help victims to receive the maximum compensation for their severe injuries.
Related Content: Tips to Safe When Using Rideshare
In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought, often when the at-fault party acted in a particularly negligent or careless manner. This is especially true in cases involving intoxicated or distracted drivers. For example, if an Uber driver was operating their vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may be held responsible for punitive damages.
Should I Just Accept a Settlement Offer?
It is common for insurance companies to offer victims a settlement after an Uber accident. However, one thing you should understand is that they may not always offer a fair amount for the injuries and actual damages incurred. In fact, the offer may be far less than what you are entitled to receive.
That is why it is important to speak with a Decatur accident attorney before accepting any fair settlement offers. An experienced lawyer can review your case and determine the type of compensation to which you are entitled. They can then help you fight for the maximum amount of compensation possible and make sure your rights are protected throughout the entire process.
How Much Will a Decatur Uber Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury lawyers or accident attorneys provide free initial consultations. During this time, they will review your case and determine the best course of action. They can provide advice on the legal options available and explain the entire claims process.
An experienced Decatur auto accident attorney will also take the time to explain how much their services will cost. Most lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning that they are only paid if they successfully recover fair compensation on behalf of the client. This can be an excellent option for those who may not have the funds to cover legal fees upfront.
Are There Time Limits for Filing an Uber Accident Claim?
It is important to understand that there are time limits for filing an Uber accident claim or a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations, which can vary from state to state, sets a deadline for filing. This may range from two to three years depending on the state in which you reside.
Contact Aaron Marks Today for a Free Consultation!
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can provide legal consultation and help you to determine the best legal options available. They can also give you additional time to make sure all of your documents are in order and that you have the necessary evidence for filing a claim or legal action.
No matter the circumstances, an Uber accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. That is why it is important to contact an experienced lawyer who has a record of success in these types of cases. At Marks Law Group, we provide personalized and dedicated services to car accident victims and their families.
Contact us today at 678-251-9309 for a free consultation. We are here to support you during these difficult times and fight for the rightful compensation you deserve.