Uber Crash Injury Law Firm | DC & Maryland Attorneys | Rideshare Lawyers
Most of us have used Uber at one time or another. It’s generally cheaper than a cab, more convenient than a train, and available with just a few taps on your phone. It’s super-convenient, easy to use, and efficient, whether you’re getting a ride to or from the airport, you need transportation after a night out with friends, or you simply don’t feel like dealing with the hassle of city driving.
Much like any other car ride, you assume you’ll get to your destination quickly and safely…but what happens when you’re an Uber passenger when the vehicle is involved in an auto accident?
It’s important to remember: Uber accidents can happen to anyone, and some of the most recent accidents are heartbreaking.
Uber Passenger Killed in North Philadelphia
It was just last month, when an Uber passenger was killed as a suspect was fleeing from police in Philadelphia. According to ABC6, “Surveillance video from a local business captured the crash that killed a 63yearold woman,” the article continues, “The woman was riding as a passenger in an Uber when the collision occurred just after 7 a.m.” At press time, police were still looking for the suspect who caused the crash, and he has been identified.
San Antonio Uber Accident Leaves One Dead
It was mid December when another Uber accident led to the death of a passenger. According to News4 San Antonio, “Police arrived to find a vehicle engulfed in flames with a passenger trapped inside. Officers attempted to put out the fire until firefighters arrived. Crews extracted the man from the back seat and began life-saving measures, but he later died from his injuries.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as 60-year-old Ralph Randolph Reynolds. Two others were taken to the hospital, one in serious condition and the other with minor injuries.”
Rideshare Laws and How They Work
The rise of Uber and other rideshare services brought with it a whole new area of law, one which remains complicated and challenging to navigate. That said, as an Uber passenger, your rights are pretty straightforward. The bottom line is, if you’re injured as a passenger in an Uber car involved in an accident, you probably have a fairly strong case for compensation for any injuries you may have received.
When it comes to insurance, Uber’s website says it maintains a commercial insurance for its drivers, explaining that, “What’s covered depends on factors such as who was at fault; whether you were offline, online, en route, or on-trip; and your personal insurance policy.” It explains that drivers will use their own insurance when driving their vehicle for personal use, but, during the times they are working for Uber (by driving) Uber’s commercial insurance applies.
Keep in mind, Uber’s insurance company has adjusters just like any other insurance company. They want to pay out as little as possible to the injured, whether you’re in an Uber at the time of the accident or in a vehicle hit by an Uber driver. While insurance adjusters may present a nominal settlement or a nominal offer, odds are that you’re entitled to much more. But that will only occur if you hire an experienced Uber injury lawyer like those at The Lapidus Law Firm.
How an Uber Injury Law Firm Can Help
The Lapidus Law Firm knows its way around the muddy waters of rideshare laws, and we have your best interests in mind. Remember, the lawyers and insurance companies of rideshare companies are fighting for them, not you. They don’t want to spend money; they want to make it. BUT: That’s where we come in.
First off, if you’re injured (even if it only seems minor), seek medical attention right away. Call 911 at the scene or get to an emergency room or doctor as soon as possible so your injuries can be diagnosed and adequately documented. And if anyone from an insurance company asks you for a recorded statement, do not do so without legal advice.
Remember that just a small bump can result in something much more serious below the surface; the only way to find that out is by getting medical care in a timely fashion. Then give us a call. If you are injured, pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, lost time from employment, and inconvenience will surely follow.
Uber Injury Law Firm
If you’re a passenger who’s been injured in an Uber vehicle in Maryland or Washington, DC, call The Lapidus Law Firm at (202) 785-5111 or (301) 852-7500 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.
Once we accept your case, we’ll guide you through each step of the legal process and represent you in negotiations with the insurance companies, and, if necessary, in court.
And through it all, we will fight to make it right!