In 2009, Uber rose to the forefront of the rideshare industry, completely transforming the way in which people traveled from point A to point B. Using a simple mobile application, individuals have the ability to request a variety in an instant.
Over the past decade, we have seen Lyft and other rideshare companies join the industry, making it easier than ever before for individuals across West Palm Beach to make it to their destinations.
Although ridesharing has contributed to a decrease in the number of drunk driving accidents reported across the country, we have seen an increase in the number of rideshare collisions reported on our roads.
If you find yourself unfortunate enough to be harmed as a result of an Uber accident, it is imperative that you understand your rights. A skilled team of West Palm Beach Uber accident lawyers will be able to help you get justice.
Your Rights after an Uber Accident
After being hurt in an Uber accident, you have the right to take legal action. Filing a personal injury claim can help you hold the negligent party accountable while also helping you secure the financial resources you need to move forward during this challenging time.
Knowing who you can file your claim against is imperative. To determine fault in the accident, a thorough investigation is needed. Our personal injury lawyers in Florida will be able to help you with this task to ensure you know who you can take legal action against.
There are several parties who can be held liable after your accident including the following:
Uber Driver
If the driver of the Uber caused the accident, they may be liable for any damages you sustained. However, it is imperative to understand whether the driver was on duty during the collision. If the driver was on duty, and you were a paying customer, the rideshare company may assume liability for your injuries and damages. If the driver was not on duty during the accident, then the damages you incurred will be covered by the driver’s personal insurance policy.
Third-Party Driver
If the accident was caused by another driver on the roadway, for example, if a speeding driver crashed into the Uber vehicle you were riding in, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the third-party driver.
Multiple At-Fault Parties
There may be a chance that several parties are responsible for the accident taking place. For example, if the Uber driver was speeding and a third-party driver failed to yield the right of way, both parties can be held liable for the resulting damages due to the laws of comparative negligence. In this situation, each party would be liable for the damages that their actions have caused.
It can be extremely confusing trying to navigate the personal injury system following an Uber accident. Having a dedicated team of personal injury lawyers in Florida in your corner can make a significant difference in your ability to protect your rights.
Applicable Insurance Coverage
The amount of compensation that you can recover following your accident is typically determined by the amount of insurance coverage applicable to the accident. In general, drivers are required to have minimum liability coverage in the event of an accident. This includes:
- Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of at least $10,000
- Property damage liability insurance coverage of at least $10,000
Individuals who operate Ubers are required to maintain the following minimum coverage:
- Bodily injury liability coverage of at least $50,000
- Bodily injury liability coverage, per accident, of at least $100,000
- Property damage liability coverage of at least $25,000
In addition, Uber maintains a one-million-dollar property damage and injury insurance policy. After determining liability, you can seek the compensation you need for your medical costs, emotional distress, and other damages.
What to Do After an Uber Accident
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident as an Uber passenger, it is important that you take several steps to protect your rights.
Contact Law Enforcement
One of the first things that you want to do is reach out to the police and have them respond to the scene. A police report will become invaluable when filing a personal injury claim after your accident. The police report will have vital information to help you through the claims process. This includes:
- The names of all involved drivers
- The insurance information for all involved vehicles
- A report about the cause of the accident
If you can do so, take pictures of the crash site. You want to take pictures of all the involved vehicles, any injuries that you suffered, the road conditions, and the location. Evidence at the scene of the accident is often the first type lost. Having pictures and video recordings can help demonstrate the road conditions and any factors that may have contributed to the accident.
Get Medical Treatment
It is vital that you seek medical treatment. You will want to have your injuries properly diagnosed, treated, and documented. Evidence surrounding your treatment requirements is needed to prove this area of damage.
Gather Evidence
One of the most important aspects of filing a personal injury claim is proving your side of the story. You will need to have strong evidence in support of your claim. Evidence can include written accounts of what occurred, photos gathered at the scene, medical records, and statements from witnesses.
Consult with West Palm Beach Uber accident lawyers
Speaking with an attorney can help you better understand your rights and what to expect throughout the legal process. Your attorney will be able to help you build a strong case by working with expert reconstructionists and other professionals.
Call Our West Palm Beach Uber Accident Lawyers Now
In the event of an Uber accident in West Palm Beach, it’s crucial to have a dedicated and experienced team of lawyers on your side. At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, we understand the challenges associated with taking legal action after being harmed in an Uber accident and will work tirelessly to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our compassionate and personalized approach ensures that our clients are well-informed throughout the legal process. With our support, you can focus on recovering from your injuries while we handle the legal aspects of your case. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options. Let our personal injury lawyers in Florida help you get back on track after an Uber accident.