What is the role of an Allentown Uber accident attorney?
During the years 2019 and 2020, Uber reported nearly 107 motor vehicle fatalities across the United States. The total number of fatal Uber crashes was 97. However, researchers estimate that these numbers could also be more common than reported. Uber accidents can occur due to different reasons including driver fatigue, drinking and driving, distracted driving, and more.
If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, you must make sure to take advice from an experienced Allentown Uber accident lawyer. They will suggest appropriate strategies to file an injury claim and seek compensation. Further, they will investigate the case thoroughly and help you gather evidence that may prove the other party’s fault.
How Uber works in Allentown
Uber is a ridesharing company that allows passengers to request rides through a smartphone app. Drivers are paid to pick up customers on the Uber platform. These drivers are independent contractors of the company, not employees.
When drivers are on the way to pick up a customer, they will typically have a smartphone mounted on their dashboard that is linked with the Uber app. In recent years, Uber has become a popular service in Allentown, as well as around the world.
How do Allentown Uber accidents occur?
As more and more people start riding with Uber, there are more accidents that occur with the service. Uber accidents can happen in several ways, including:
- Negligent driving
- Passengers using Uber while intoxicated
- Bad weather conditions
- Drivers getting distracted with their smartphones
Uber drivers may be involved in accidents with motorcycles, bicycles, cars, pedestrians, and other vehicles. These accidents can cause serious injuries to the victims. Thus, it is important for individuals who have been injured in an Uber accident to understand their legal options when it comes to taking legal action against the company or driver.
Uber drivers, like all other motorists, must drive with due care and obey the rules of the road. When Uber drivers don’t operate their cars safely and negligently injure someone, this is “negligence” in legal terms. When an Uber driver fails to operate the vehicle carefully and causes an accident, this negligence may be the basis for a claim against the company or the driver.
Can you sue an Uber driver in Allentown after an accident?
Just because Uber drivers are independent contractors instead of employees doesn’t mean they can’t be held responsible if they contribute to injury from an auto accident.
If you’re injured from an accident with an Uber driver, it makes sense to hire an Allentown Uber accident lawyer that has dealt with past Uber accident cases.
Generally, the liability in an accident will depend on the status of the driver when it occurred. There are four possible statuses:
- The driver did not log into the rideshare app before the accident: Uber will not provide coverage. Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
- The Uber driver was logged into the app, but had not accepted a ride before the accident: The company will provide liability coverage of up to $50,000 per person injured in the accident, $100,000 total injury liability per accident, and $25,000 property damage liability.
- The driver was involved in an accident after accepting a trip and was en route to the passenger’s location: In this status, Uber’s liability cover increases to $1 million.
- The passenger was in the rideshare car when the accident occurred: Uber’s liability coverage increases to $1 million, as well as additional limited coverage for damage to the driver’s car or the uninsured motorist’s car.
When you are injured in an Uber car accident, it is important to protect your legal rights. You should report the accident to Uber as soon as possible. Then, you will want to speak with an Allentown auto accident lawyer who can help you determine if filing a lawsuit against Uber is necessary.
How long after an accident can you file an injury claim in Allentown?
If you have been injured in an accident involving Uber in Allentown, an experienced Allentown Uber accident attorney can help you file a lawsuit against the company. They can help you negotiate with Uber or another insurance company to increase your chances of a good settlement for your injuries.
It is important to note that there are time limits for filing a lawsuit against Uber. In Allentown, the time limit for filing a claim is two years. Therefore, if you want to file a lawsuit against the company or driver, you should speak with an Uber car accident lawyer right away.
Need legal help? Contact an experienced Allentown Uber accident lawyer.
The knowledgeable attorneys at The Law Offices of Samuel Fishman understand how Uber accidents work under state law. We can address your concerns following an accident, advise you on your rights, and assist you in pursuing financial recovery from injuries or damages. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.