Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have become a convenient way to get around the Orlando area. This is largely due to the high number of people traveling by air for business or vacation. But what happens when the convenience of paid transportation turns into chaos, like being involved in a rideshare accident? If you were a passenger in an Uber when a crash occurred, you may be left with questions, injuries, and a lot of uncertainty about your next steps.
At Brooks Law Group, our team of experienced attorneys is here to guide you through the complex process of getting compensation after an Uber car crash. In this blog, we’ll explain your rights, answer your questions about who’s responsible, and why it’s important to have a rideshare accident lawyer on your side.
What should I do first after a rideshare accident?
Whether you’re heading home from Orlando International Airport after a business trip or catching a ride back from Disney World or Universal Studios, being in a rideshare accident is both frightening and confusing. It’s sobering to realize that Uber and Lyft accident statistics continue to climb. If you were the passenger, here’s what you should do immediately after the crash:
- Call 911. Make sure police respond to the scene and create an official accident report. This document is crucial to your future claim!
- Get medical attention, even if you don’t think you need it. Hidden injuries (like whiplash or internal injuries) can be deadly. It’s best to get checked out after any accident.
- Document the scene with photos and videos if possible. Include photos of all vehicles, road conditions, injuries, and more.
- Request contact information from all parties on scene. This includes the Uber driver and any nearby witnesses!
- Report the crash to Uber. You can do this directly through the Uber app, or here, where Uber offers official information on what to do after a car accident. They are required to carry insurance that could aid in your situation.
- Contact a rideshare accident attorney. An experienced Uber car accident attorney can help protect your rights and deal with the complex insurance claims process.
After you’ve secured an attorney to advocate for you, it’s important to bring your questions to them as soon as possible. We are always eager to provide peace of mind for our clients.
Who is liable for my injuries in a rideshare accident?
Liability is one of the most complicated aspects of a rideshare accident. As a passenger, you are likely not at fault, but determining who is responsible for your injuries can get tricky. It all depends on who caused the accident and whether the Uber driver was actively transporting a passenger at the time of the crash.
Two major factors we look at in these cases are:
Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Uber carries a sizeable insurance policy that applies when a driver is “on the clock.” This means they are actively transporting a passenger or are on the way to pick one up. This insurance can cover:
- medical expenses
- lost wages
- pain and suffering
- property damage
Who can be held liable?
- The Uber driver. If the accident was caused by negligence (like speeding, distracted driving, or being under the influence) the driver can be held liable. In this case, Uber’s insurance would be a contributing factor in your compensation.
- Another driver. If a third-party driver hit your Uber vehicle and caused the crash, that person (and their insurance company) may be liable for your injuries and damages.
In some cases, both drivers may share responsibility for the accident (and your injuries), which further complicates your claim. In all of these scenarios, having a skilled rideshare accident lawyer on your side is crucial to determine liability and maximize your compensation.
Can I sue if I was in an accident as an Uber passenger?
Are you putting yourself at risk when you climb into the backseat of a rideshare?
Yes, you can sue if you were injured as a passenger in an Uber vehicle. In most cases, however, claims are settled through insurance negotiations. But if your injuries are serious or if the insurance companies dispute your claim, a lawsuit may be the next necessary step.
When can you sue?
- If your medical expenses exceed the coverage of the driver’s or Uber’s insurance policy
- If the insurance company denies your claim
- If multiple parties are involved and no one accepts responsibility
- If you suffer long-term or permanent injuries
A rideshare accident attorney can evaluate your case and determine whether litigation is necessary.
What kind of compensation can you receive?
As an individual impacted by a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- emergency room visits
- ongoing medical care
- physical therapy
- rehabilitation
- lost income (and reduced earning capacity)
- pain and emotional suffering
- permanent disability or disfigurement
Don’t settle for less than what you deserve. It’s crucial to seek out the best rideshare accident lawyer for your unique case. Orlando victims trust Brooks Law Group to fight for their full financial recovery.
Why you need an Uber car accident attorney in Orlando
As mentioned above Orlando area is one of the busiest regions in Florida for rideshare activity. With millions of tourists and locals relying on Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services for everyday transport, rideshare accidents are all too common. Insurance companies know this, and they are quick to offer low settlements or deny claims altogether.
That’s where Brooks Law Group comes in.
We understand rideshare laws inside and out.
Navigating the legal landscape of a rideshare accident is not the same as a typical car crash. The involvement of Uber’s corporate insurance, third-party drivers, and multiple claims processes can create confusion and delay.
As experienced rideshare accident lawyers, we understand how to:
- gather evidence to prove fault
- analyze Uber’s insurance policy in relation to your accident
- handle negotiations with both Uber and third-party insurers
- represent your interests in court if necessary
Brooks Law Group believes in personalized service and aggressive advocacy. When you choose us to handle your rideshare accident case, you can rest and recover, knowing you’re in capable hands. We offer free consultations, no upfront fees, and work on a contingency fee basis. We are committed to thorough investigations, regular communication in whatever way works best for you, and the pursuit of compensation on your behalf.
We’ve helped clients throughout the Orlando area and across Florida, and we’re ready to help you. If you’ve been in a rideshare accident, Look to Brooks!
