Smyrna
Uber Accident Lawyer

Recent years have seen ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft gain a great deal of popularity, and it’s easy to understand why. Despite Uber’s convenience and affordability, sometimes accidents do occur for some of the same reasons other car accidents occur.

Roadway accidents are on the rise as well as the number of travelers traveling through and to Smyrna. The tourism industry contributes to Smyrna’s economy, but it also causes auto accidents. When Uber accidents happen, John Foy & Associates understand how severe injuries can be and know the process victims and their families need to take to get the right compensation.

When to Call an Uber Accident Lawyer in Smyrna

Uber drivers are obligated to protect their passengers by adhering to safety guidelines and improving the overall safety of other motorists, pedestrians, and other passengers on the road. 

Companies must make concerted efforts to mitigate the risks of specific drivers if they are particularly at risk. Uber drivers who deviate from their duties are liable for their actions. Compensation may be available to Uber-related car accident victims for:

• Medical expenses
• Compromised or lost wages, if unable to work as a result of the accident
• Pain and suffering caused by the accident or its consequences, including mental, psychological, and emotional distress
• Funeral expenses and pain and suffering compensation

What to Do After an Uber Accident in Smyrna

You might not realize how important it is to take the right steps following an Uber accident – whether you are a pedestrian, passenger, or driver. What you do immediately after an accident can influence your recovery from it and your health. Follow these suggestions.

• Inform the police. Despite being inadmissible as evidence in a civil lawsuit, police reports can be invaluable when you pursue compensation. Always contact the police after an accident. 
• Document the scene. It will become more difficult to recall where, when, and how it happened. Snap a picture of Uber and any other involved vehicles.
• Go to the hospital. Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, see a doctor, as you might be injured internally. Whiplash, for example, might not be symptomatic immediately.
• Speak with a Smyrna Uber accident lawyer. Uber accidents may involve multiple parties – and they will all try to blame each other. It will ultimately depend on how (and if) the Uber driver was using the app at the time of the accident if the Uber driver is at fault. 
• Weigh your losses. Did you suffer significant injuries in your Uber accident? Has your physical recovery caused you to miss work? You have a right to compensation if you suffered significant losses. 

The Uber app will serve as proof that you were riding as a passenger at the time of the accident, and the company’s insurance policy will support you.

Uber Accidents vs Other Vehicle Accidents

Uber accidents tend to be more complex than accidents involving personal vehicles. A rideshare driver is not considered an employee of a company. He or she is an independent contractor. Therefore, determining liability can be challenging. Uber may contest their liability based on the circumstances. Rideshare companies are not responsible for property damage or injuries if the driver at the time of the accident was not transporting any passengers.

Riders are required to maintain a personal insurance policy in addition to the company-provided coverage. The driver’s insurance is only in effect if the accident occurs while they are not transporting passengers. Unfortunately, most personal insurance policies do not adequately cover expensive damages or injuries. Uber, however, offers policies with coverage of up to $1 million.

Injuries sustained by drivers in accidents must be paid for by their insurance policies. Medical treatments cost more than coverage allows. A person injured in an accident may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver if the damage exceeds their insurance coverage. 

Without the assistance of an experienced attorney, it can be difficult to determine which insurance provider is liable-either the rideshare driver’s insurance or the company’s insurance.

Eligible Uber Accident Injury Compensation 

In the event of an Uber accident, you may be entitled to compensation if you meet the following requirements:

• An Uber driver’s negligence causes serious injury to a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist
• An Uber driver’s negligence causes serious injury to a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist
• A passenger who suffers an injury while traveling in an Uber vehicle, whether driven by the ridesharing company or a third party, is responsible

What Happens If an Uber Drive doesn’t Have Insurance?

For accidents caused by Uber drivers, Uber has liability insurance coverage of $1 million. If, however, the Uber app was enabled at the time of the accident, the driver was traveling with passengers, and the driver’s insurance cannot cover the damages, then Uber may be liable.

Uber Accident Statistics to Know

A recent study conducted by the University of Chicago Booth School of Business examined the proliferation of ride-sharing apps and ride-hailing services and the resulting increase in motor vehicle accidents and fatalities. 

Study results indicate that rideshare services like Uber have increased the number of fatal car accidents by 3%. The study found the following statistics:

• Rideshare vehicles are to blame for almost 1,000 car accidents a day. 
• Between 2017 and 2018, 97 Uber accidents led to fatalities. A total of 107 deaths were caused by those accidents. 
• Among those killed were 21% riders and 21% drivers. 
• Another 58% of those killed were passengers or third parties.
• Accident rates have remained the same during weekdays, weeknights, weekends, and holiday weekends. 
• As of 2010, there were 32,885 fatalities on U.S. roadways, the lowest number since 1949. 
• That number was over 37,400 in 2016. 
• There were also more accidents at drop-offs and pickups in 2016.

Call a Smyrna Uber Accident Attorney Today

Recovering the full compensation for your losses in an Uber accident can be frustrating but it is possible. Uber accident attorneys in Smyrna have specialized knowledge and experience to help you make the best decision in an Uber accident liability case. To learn more, fill out the online contact form or call the law offices to schedule a no-cost, risk-free, confidential consultation.