Uber reports that over 99% of trips do not involve any safety incidents. However, because Uber drivers spend so much time on the road and often drive in unfamiliar areas, Uber accidents are common and can often be devastating both for passengers of the Uber and others on the road.

If you or someone you love is involved in a collision with a rideshare vehicle, you need to understand your rights within the legal system. These cases can be complex because of the potential for third-party insurance coverage and you need an Uber accident attorney who understands the rules and who is prepared to fight for you.

Canopy Legal can help. Our team is experienced in rideshare accident claims and we can bring our legal knowledge to your case. We’re committed to helping you fight for the justice you deserve and will be here every step of the way in your pursuit of justice. Just give us a call today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help.

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How do Uber accidents happen?

Uber accidents include crashes involving Uber drivers, as well as accidents with delivery drivers working with Uber Eats.  There are many different causes of crashes involving these rideshare app drivers including:

1. Distracted driving: Drivers may become too focused on the app or on navigating unfamiliar neighborhoods and may not pay close attention to the road, leading to a collision.
2. Fatigued driving: Many people who drive for Uber work long hours to make enough money. This can lead to an increased risk of fatigued driving accidents.
3. Speeding or reckless driving: Drivers often make unsafe moves to try to get to their destination faster so they can fit in more rides and make more money.
4. Intoxicated driving: Sometimes, Uber drivers take drugs or alcohol when operating their vehicles, especially if they feel the job is stressful or if they need a pick-me-up after working for long hours.
5. Improper car maintenance: Many Uber drivers put a lot of miles on their vehicles as they make deliveries or transport passengers. Without proper maintenance, this creates the risk of issues like tire blow-outs or brake failure that can result in serious accidents.

These are just some of the many ways that Uber drivers could become involved in collisions. The key question is whether the Uber driver behaved appropriately behind the wheel and, if not, whether the driver’s actions or inactions were the direct cause of the accident.

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Who is responsible for an Uber accident?

An Uber driver can be held responsible for a collision if the driver is negligent, which is defined as being less careful than a hypothetical reasonable motorist would be under the same circumstances.

If an Uber driver violates any of the rules of the road, such as going over the speed limit or holding the phone to text while driving despite a state law banning this behavior, then the safety rule violation could create a presumption of negligence. This would make it easier to pursue a claim for compensation.

Unfortunately, Uber drivers are independent contractors rather than employees. This means that Uber is not vicariously liable for their actions while on-the-job. Uber does, however, have third-party liability insurance coverage but the availability of that coverage, and the extent of it, depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

According to Uber:

1. If the driver is offline at the time of the accident, only the driver’s own insurance would apply.
2. If the driver is online and available for a trip, Uber provides coverage of up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage and $25,000 in property damage.
3. If the driver is en route or on a trip, Uber provides at least $1 million in property damage and bodily injury liability coverage.

Canopy Legal can help you to determine if this coverage may apply in your case and, if so, can help you negotiate a settlement with Uber’s insurer or pursue a claim in court to get the money you deserve.

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What can an Uber accident lawyer do for you?

An Uber accident lawyer at Canopy Legal can offer invaluable assistance in the aftermath of an accident with a rideshare driver.

Whether you were in the Uber car at the time of the incident or were simply on the road when the Uber driver caused a crash, we’ll work with you to navigate the justice system and fight for fair compensation.

Our firm can:

1. Help you to gather evidence including records for the Uber app, cell phone records, witness statements, police reports, and more
2. Negotiate on your behalf with the insurance companies responsible for covering your losses
3. Take your case to court when no fair settlement offer is reached

Throughout the process, we’ll keep you informed about your case and your Uber rideshare accident lawyer will be here to answer your questions and offer you support.

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Why turn to Canopy Legal after an Uber crash?

Canopy Legal understands the complexities of Uber accident claims and we’ll work from day one to determine the right legal strategy to help you get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress and wrongful death damages.

We don’t charge legal fees unless we win and we can offer the compassionate and knowledgeable representation you deserve. Give us a call today to learn more.