Uber Accidents Attorney in Rockville, Maryland
In modern times, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular choice for transportation. While these services offer convenience and flexibility, they also can involve accidents that cause serious injuries.
Mohammadi & Humayun, Attorneys at Law is here to help if you find yourself involved in such an incident in Rockville, Maryland. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.
Common Causes of Uber Accidents
Rideshare accidents can happen for various reasons, often mirroring the causes of traditional vehicle accidents but with some unique considerations.
Understanding the common causes can help passengers and other road users identify potential risks and take precautions.
Distracted driving: Rideshare drivers may be distracted by their app, leading to accidents. This distraction can result in reduced attention to the road, increasing the risk of collisions. The constant need to check for ride requests, navigation, and communication with passengers can lead to lapses in focus, resulting in accidents.
Impaired driving: Just like any other driver, rideshare drivers may operate their vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Since rideshare drivers often face pressure to work long hours, they may resort to substances to stay alert or reduce stress. This impairment can lead to severe accidents with significant consequences for passengers and others on the road.
Fatigue: Rideshare drivers often work long hours to maximize earnings, which can lead to fatigue. Drowsy driving can impair reaction times and decision-making, resulting in accidents. Many drivers work during peak hours to increase fares, leading to exhaustion that compromises their ability to drive safely.
Important Considerations in Rideshare Accidents
While many aspects of rideshare accidents are widely known, several nuanced issues often go unnoticed. Here are some less commonly discussed concerns that can significantly impact a personal injury claim:
Passenger rights and responsibilities: Passengers in rideshare vehicles have certain rights, including the right to a safe ride. However, they also have responsibilities, such as wearing seatbelts. Failure to do so can complicate personal injury claims. If a passenger isn’t wearing a seatbelt during an accident, they may be partially at fault, which can affect the compensation they receive.
Insurance coverage: Understanding the insurance coverage available in rideshare accidents can be challenging. Rideshare companies typically provide liability coverage when drivers are in “online” mode, but gaps in coverage may exist, especially if the driver was at fault while off-duty. Passengers must be aware of these intricacies to make sure they pursue claims under the appropriate policies.
Rideshare driver screening: Rideshare companies conduct background checks on drivers, but these checks aren’t foolproof. Drivers with previous accidents or infractions may still be permitted to operate. Understanding how this affects liability can be crucial in a personal injury case. If a rideshare driver has a history of reckless behavior, the company could be held accountable for negligent hiring practices.
Steps to Take After an Uber or Rideshare Accident
If you find yourself involved in a rideshare accident, taking specific steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your personal injury claim.
Confirm safety first: Check for injuries to yourself and others. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Move to a safe location if possible to avoid further accidents. Your priority should be the well-being of everyone involved.
Document the scene: Gather evidence by taking photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their statements can be valuable in your claim. A detailed account of the scene can help establish liability later on.
Report the accident: Notify the rideshare company about the accident through their app or customer service line. Prompt reporting can help you work through insurance claims more efficiently. The rideshare company may conduct its investigation, and timely reporting can strengthen your position.
Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Seek medical attention as soon as possible to document your health status and establish a connection between the accident and your injuries. A medical report can be a crucial piece of evidence in your personal injury claim.
Consult an attorney: Handling rideshare accidents can be complicated. An experienced personal injury attorney may help you understand your rights, evaluate your claim, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Having professional legal representation can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Understanding Compensation in Rideshare Accident Claims
Victims of rideshare accidents may be able to seek compensation for various damages, including:
Medical expenses: This includes costs for hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatment related to the accident. Keep detailed records of all medical bills and treatment plans, as these will be crucial in calculating your total damages.
Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may claim compensation for lost income during your recovery. Documenting your time off work and lost earnings is essential to support this claim.
Pain and suffering: Victims can seek compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the accident. This aspect of your claim can be more subjective, but personal testimony and medical documentation can help substantiate your case.
Property damage: This includes repair or replacement costs for personal property damaged in the accident, such as your vehicle or personal items. Obtaining estimates for repairs and documenting the damage is essential for this part of your claim.
Handling Insurance Claims in Rideshare Accidents
The insurance claim process in rideshare accidents can be more complicated than in traditional vehicle accidents. Here's what to consider.
Multiple insurance policies: Depending on the circumstances, you may need to handle multiple insurance policies, including your personal auto insurance, the rideshare driver's insurance, and the rideshare company's liability coverage. Understanding which policy applies in your situation is crucial.
Understanding policy limits: Each insurance policy has specific limits and conditions that can impact your claim. Familiarize yourself with these details to pursue the maximum compensation available. Knowing the coverage limits of the rideshare company can help you decide whether to pursue your claim under your insurance or theirs.
Negotiation tactics: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts by disputing liability or downplaying injuries. A personal injury attorney may help you counter these tactics and advocate for fair compensation. Your attorney may prepare for negotiations by gathering evidence and building a compelling case.
Legal Representation for Rideshare Accident Claims
Engaging a personal injury attorney with experience in rideshare accidents is vital for several reasons.
Knowledge of rideshare laws: An attorney well-versed in personal injury law and the intricacies of rideshare regulations may provide tailored legal guidance. They can help you overcome the unique challenges posed by rideshare accidents and identify the most effective strategies for your case.
Comprehensive investigation: Your attorney may conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to strengthen your case. This can include obtaining police reports, accident reconstructions, and medical records to build a robust claim.
Skilled negotiation: Personal injury attorneys have the skills necessary to negotiate with insurance companies effectively. They can advocate on your behalf and handle all communications with the insurance adjusters, relieving you of this burden.
Trial representation: If your case goes to trial, having a knowledgeable attorney on your side may make a difference in the outcome. They can present your case compellingly, cross-examine witnesses, and argue effectively on your behalf.