As of the last five years, ridesharing services have successfully integrated into mainstream public transportation. The industry, however, is still evolving, especially regarding regulatory legislation. Currently, Uber & Lyft sit at the top of the rideshare pack, unchallenged by all. Both companies offer the same (or roughly similar services) via an app on your smartphone. The nature of these businesses throws a bit of a wrench into the mix, as they are classified as "technology companies" and not as "taxi services." This means that passengers involved in an Uber accident will almost always have to file their claims against the motor vehicle operator and not against Uber itself.
When you pay for an Uber ride, you're not just paying for the ride. The fee for this form of public transportation also covers background checks on Uber operators, vehicle evaluations, and driver safety knowledge. As previously alluded to, the law considers these drivers as independent contractors. The fact is that very few cases leave Uber on the business end of the liability stick. It will almost always be a brawl between insurance companies and yours vs. your Uber drivers.
Miami Uber Accident Attorneys
These cases are often more nuanced and frustrating than typical car accident cases. To take on cases like these, you will want a legal team with a cool head and a long resume. The Ward Law Group fits that bill nicely, with over 20 years of experience and consistent victories in high-profile claims. Whether you broke your arm (or even your smartwatch), our team is here to get you the compensation you deserve.
The Ward Law Group serves the English and Spanish-speaking communities with Uber compensation claims. Contact us today to maximize your claim and achieve the peace of mind you deserve!
Common Types of Uber Accident Claims that We Settle
All Uber operators must have their own insurance plans. But that's not to say that Uber doesn't provide any coverage for their drivers or passengers. When a driver goes online, if they get into an accident with no passengers in the car, Uber covers up to $100,000 in liability. This number, however, changes to a maximum of 1 million dollars when passengers enter the potentially very large settlement.
- Road Rage Accidents: One of the leading causes of all car accidents on the highway, road rage may lead to aggressive driving, which is almost always dangerous to others.
- Head-on Collisions: This is primarily a worry for those who live in areas with single-lane roadways. Even at relatively low speeds, these accidents often lead to injury and, sometimes, even death.
- Rear-End Collisions: These accidents are most often the result of distracted driving. There are other scenarios in which less avoidable elements (road traction, the weather, defective car parts, etc.) play a role.
Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg regarding accident types. Luckily, The Ward Law Group has the experience to handle anything that comes our way. If you become involved in Uber, especially as a passenger, you should seek legal counsel immediately. These cases are far more complex than most and often require a legal expert's immediate attention. For best results, contact the Ward Law Group today!
Types of Uber Accident Injuries & Compensation
The list of personal injuries possible from any motor vehicle accident will depend heavily on the severity of the crash. That being said, at least some form of personal injury is likely. Motor vehicle accidents account for the second most significant source of personal injury in the U.S. (just after slips and falls). The following list contains only a few examples of personal injury and does not take other joint problems (such as mental distress) into account:
- Mild to Serious Brain Damage
- Damage to the Spine or Neck
- Dismemberment
- Lacerations
- Internal Organ Injury
- Burn Injuries
- Whiplash
- Visual and Auditory Impairment, including Blindness or Deafness
...and more.
Like Uber drivers, rideshare passengers are eligible for the usual compensation claims associated with motor vehicle accidents. However, you will need a quick-witted legal team to maximize these claims. Passenger rideshare compensation may be tricky sometimes, so always make sure you go to the right people for legal advice. You may be entitled to the following claims:
- Property Damage: Just because it isn't your car doesn't mean you aren't entitled to property damage claims. Maybe you are carrying a laptop or some other high-priced electronic device. Perhaps you wear expensive jewelry. All of these things fall under this category.
- Medical Invoices: Hopefully, you don't leave a rideshare service with a personal injury. However, if you do, then you may be able to receive compensation for hospital bills, as well as other treatments or post-injury therapies.
- Mental Trauma: It is not uncommon for victims of a motor vehicle accident to acquire PTSD, as well as other adverse psychological effects.
- Earnings Compensation: Personal injuries often lead to hospital stays, which leads to time out of work. These losses can be recuperated, especially if the injury is permanent and affects your capacity to work.
A Triumph In Bilingual Legal Counseling
In addition to serving English-speaking personal injury victims, The Ward Law Group is passionate about providing bilingual legal services to the Spanish-speaking community. Don't let language become a barrier to getting the compensation you deserve for your claim. Contact our team of legal advisors at the Ward Law Group today!
Gregory Ward and Jany Martínez-Ward have recovered millions of dollars in personal injury compensation for car accident victims. They were recognized for a top 5 verdict in Florida in 2021. They obtained more than $2,000,000 in compensation for the victim of a truck accident. Don't leave the fate of your settlement to chance. Contact The Ward Law Group today to secure your legal rights and hire reputable insurance companies.
Maximizing Your Claim: Immediate Steps to Take After an Uber Accident
Immediately after the accident, the insurance companies are informed, and a claim is opened. At this point, the victim's appointed attorney and the insurance company will be in regular communication. While this is happening, we usually suggest that all participants in the Uber accident receive a medical evaluation within 14 days. Additionally, all parties will consider the vehicle repair factor as well.
While you are still at the scene (and obviously after you contact the emergency responders), you and members of your party will want to take as many photographs as possible. Nowadays, almost anyone has a high-quality camera on their person via smartphone technology. These photographs will later provide vital information to your legal team, which will, in turn, increase your potential claim value.
Ensure you keep track of all your expenses and receipts related to the accident. If necessary, establish any loss of wages or earning capacity due to your injuries with your legal team.
Contact a Miami Uber Accident Attorney For Help!
If you have been injured as a result of a ridesharing service such as Uber, then please get in touch with The Ward Law Group today. The Ward Law Group has over 20 years of experience and is no stranger to the laws governing rideshare accidents. Our team is here to help you maximize your compensation claim and provide bilingual services to those who primarily speak Spanish. Please contact us today for expert legal advice involving your Uber car accident!