Whether your car is in the shop or you’re looking for a safe way to get around town on a night out with your friends, Uber provides an easy way to get to where you want to be. The process is simple. All you have to do is download the app, request a ride for your destination, wait to be picked up, and pay digitally. Unfortunately, not every ride ends as it should.
As rideshare services continue to grow, so do the instances of accidents. Serious injuries are possible, even in a minor accident. If you’ve been in a rideshare wreck you believe was the result of driver negligence, our Louisville Uber accident lawyers will represent you.
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Uber Accident Statistics
According to a study from the University of Chicago and Rice University, the rise of rideshare services like Uber has contributed to an increase in traffic deaths by two to three percent since 2011. The study looked at data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and compared the accident fatality rates to the dates when Uber launched in specific cities.
In 2010, there were 32,855 fatal car accidents across the nation. While this number may seem high, it’s important to note that had been the lowest since 1949. After ridesharing services were introduced, the decline reversed. The study suggests the increase in traffic congestion and declined use of public transport because of rideshare services is why fatal accident rates have increased.
If you’ve been in an accident involving an Uber driver, it’s important to call 911, seek medical attention, and start the car accident claim process with an attorney. They’ll be able to examine insurance policies and determine how to get you the compensation you need to recover.
What Happens During an Uber Ride
There are three phases that indicate the status of an Uber driver. The phases are important because it establishes how much insurance is available for anyone when an accident happens. While the driver’s insurance is used first, Uber’s policy kicks in when that coverage isn’t enough.
Phase one covers incidents where the driver is not logged into Uber. Instead, they are driving their vehicle for personal use. If a crash occurs at this stage, the vehicle’s personal injury policy is responsible for damages and injuries.
The second phase covers scenarios when the Uber driver is logged into the app and looking for pickups. If the driver causes an accident prior to picking up a passenger, Uber is required to cover the vehicle with their commercial policy. This includes liability coverage of $25,000 for property damage, $50,000 per person, and $100,000 per accident.
Phase three involves passengers being in the Uber at the time of the wreck. When that happens, a commercial insurance policy provides $1 million worth of coverage. This covers bodily injury liability and uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. It is in effect until the passengers exit the vehicle.
Determining How Much Your Uber Accident Case Is Worth
When you work with an attorney, they’ll be able to help you seek full and fair compensation for your accident-related injuries and losses. There are a number of factors that need to be considered in order to determine an appropriate amount.
The first factor involves looking at how badly you were injured and how much your medical bills are. If your injury took months or even longer to heal, or you suffered a catastrophic injury that results in a disability, you’ll be eligible for more compensation than if your injury healed within a matter of weeks. When medical expenses are taken into consideration, past and future care can be looked at. Past care refers to the medical attention you received after the accident. Future care refers to any treatments, procedures, or assistance you may need later on as a result of lasting injuries.
Your lawyer will also look into whether you lost wages as a result of missed work. It’s easier to calculate lost wages when they happened in the past. If, however, your employment status needs to change because of your injuries, an expert can be hired to calculate future lost wages. Elements like benefits, raises, and promotions can be taken into consideration.
The final factor takes pain and suffering into consideration. This is considered a noneconomic damage because there’s no formula that can determine an exact amount. Instead, your Louisville lawyer will use their experience and knowledge to determine what you should receive because of your sufferings.
Get Help from Thomas Law Offices
To provide you with the best experience, our Louisville Uber accident lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation. The process involves documenting the crash scene, collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and learning about the Uber driver that caused the wreck. We will take on all the legal aspects of your situation, so you can focus on your recovery.
Uber doesn’t always make it easy for victims to receive the compensation they need when one of their drivers causes an accident. In order to protect their image, you may be offered a settlement. It’s important to speak with your lawyer before accepting because it’s possible the offer is considerably less than you deserve.
In order to receive full and fair compensation, it’s best to work with an attorney who’s not afraid to go up against a company like Uber. If you’re ready to take action, schedule a free consultation with our office today.
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