Using an Uber makes it easier to get around the city, but the ride-sharing service comes with its risks, including traffic accidents. When these collisions happen, passengers, drivers, and even pedestrians may have painful injuries, costly losses, and unanswered questions.
If you or a loved one is healing from an Uber accident, a Fort Lauderdale Uber accident lawyer from Winston Law Firm can lead your case to recover financial compensation that covers your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
For over 35 years, we have helped Florida clients hold those who harmed them accountable and make them pay. Our Fort Lauderdale rideshare accident lawyers will take on the insurance company and pursue maximum compensation. Call us for a free consultation.
Our Fort Lauderdale Uber Crash Lawyers Will Handle Your Case
Given the issues listed above, working with our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers on your Uber accident cases can help you hold the right parties accountable and recover compensation from them.
From the first phone call, you will find that our team will listen to your side of the story and determine how we can move your case forward. We will handle all the legal issues that can sidetrack your case or delay you from receiving your fair compensation.
When we represent you, we will handle everything for you, including:
- Case investigation: We will collect evidence, determine who is at fault for the accident in Fort Lauderdale, and identify all potential sources of compensation.
- Negotiate with the insurance company: Handle discussions with Uber’s insurance company and any other involved insurers to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Represent you in court: If necessary, your lawyer can take your case to court to fight for your rights.
Our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers will handle all paperwork, case filing deadlines, and other communications. We offer 24/7 support and will tailor our advice and case strategy to your specific situation. You will always have Winston Law Firm looking out for you.
Call us today for a free consultation where you can review your legal options and next steps.
Why Determining Liability Is Challenging in Uber Accidents
The unique relationship between Uber, its drivers, and passengers makes determining liability difficult. Here are a few reasons why liability can become a complicated issue:
The Driver’s Status at the Time of the Crash
A key factor that affects liability is whether the Uber driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting a passenger.
Uber’s insurance coverage changes depending on the driver’s status, which changes throughout the ride. This makes it challenging to determine which insurance policy applies.
The Accident May Involve Multiple Parties
Unlike regular car accidents, Uber accidents often involve multiple parties, including the Uber driver, other drivers, Uber passengers, pedestrians, and Uber as a company. Each party may have different levels of responsibility, making liability harder to determine.
Insurance Coverage Overlaps
In some cases, insurance coverage may overlap, which means the Uber driver’s personal insurance and Uber’s commercial insurance would cover the accident. Sorting out which policy applies and how much each insurer should pay can be a lengthy process.
Uber’s Responsibility
Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors, not employees, which can affect the company’s liability. Uber may argue that it’s not directly responsible for its drivers’ actions, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Who Can You Hold Liable for Damages in an Uber Crash?
Depending on who is responsible for the accident, we can seek compensation from:
- The Uber driver: If the Uber driver caused the accident, their personal auto insurance or Uber’s insurance policy might cover the damages, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app and actively working.
- Other drivers: If another driver was at fault, their insurance would typically be responsible for covering the damages. This includes situations where the other driver’s negligence caused the accident.
- Uber’s Insurance policy: Uber provides insurance coverage that varies based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- Logged off: The driver’s personal insurance is in effect.
- Logged in, no passenger: Uber offers contingent liability coverage if the driver’s insurance doesn’t fully cover the damages.
- En route or transporting a passenger: Uber’s commercial insurance, which includes higher liability limits, may cover the accident.
- Uber itself: In rare cases, if Uber’s negligence or policies contributed to the accident, the company might be held liable. This could include situations where Uber failed to properly vet the driver or if there was a defect in the app that led to the crash.
- Vehicle manufacturers or maintenance providers: If a mechanical failure or defect, such as faulty brakes or a tire blowout, contributed to the crash, the vehicle manufacturer or a maintenance provider might be liable for damages.
Damages in a Fort Lauderdale Uber Rideshare Accident Case
If you have losses from an Uber accident, we can pursue various damages. These include:
- Medical expenses: Past, current, and future medical bills from the accident.
- Lost income: Payment for income and earnings lost due to your inability to work and future earning potential loss.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle or other property damaged in the accident.
The damages you recover will be unique to your situation. The severity of your injuries, how long your recovery is expected to take, and other factors will affect your case’s outcome.
Damages in Fatal Uber Accidents
If your loved one suffered fatal injuries in an Uber accident, we offer our sincere condolences. It is devastating to lose a family member under tragic circumstances.
Our Fort Lauderdale wrongful death lawyer can seek compensation from the negligent party for compensation that would cover their final medical bills, funeral and burial fees, and other expenses. During your free consultation, we can explain who can file a wrongful death claim and other topics.
Uber Personal Injury Cases Have a Deadline — Act Promptly
If you must file a lawsuit for damages, state law allows plaintiffs just two years to sue for damages. This deadline applies to personal injury and wrongful death cases in Florida.
You must file your case within this period, or you risk permanently losing your right to seek compensation. Our Fort Lauderdale Uber crash lawyers will file your case on time, but we encourage you to contact us to learn your case’s potential timeline.
What to Do After an Uber Accident
If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident, here are some important steps to take:
- Check for injuries and promptly call 911: Make sure everyone is safe and get medical help if needed.
- Call the police: Report the accident so there’s an official record. Even if the accident seems minor, call the police and have an official report filed. You should also get a copy of this report.
- Gather information: Collect contact and insurance details from everyone involved. You can also ask witnesses for their information.
- Document the crash scene: If you can, take photos of the accident and any injuries.
- Seek medical attention: See a doctor, even if you don’t feel hurt right away.
- Report the accident to Uber: Use the Uber app to notify them about the accident.
- Contact a lawyer: Get legal advice to help with your claim. You can also call an Uber accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale to talk to the insurance company for you.
Our Fort Lauderdale Uber Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Help
Uber is supposed to make your life easier by offering a convenient way to get around town. But when an accident happens, that convenience can quickly turn into a challenge. You don’t have to face it alone. Winston Law Firm will fight for you while you recover from the accident.
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale Uber accident lawyers will support you every step of the way. We understand the intricacies of these cases and are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward. Call or contact us online for a free consultation.
