Uber accidents can leave passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers with serious injuries. Determining who bears financial responsibility for these collisions often involves complicated insurance questions and legal issues.

At Marks & Harrison, our rideshare accident lawyers understand the challenges these cases present. Since 1911, we have fought for injured individuals and families throughout Virginia, securing significant results in complex personal injury claims. If you suffered injuries in a Roanoke Uber accident, contact us today for a free consultation.

What Steps Should You Take If You Are Involved in a Roanoke Uber Accident?

The actions you take immediately following a collision with an Uber driver can strengthen your ability to pursue fair compensation. Many people feel confused or overwhelmed after an accident. However, following these steps will protect your legal rights:

  • Report the collision through the Uber app to create an official record with the company.
  • Call 911 if anyone appears injured.
  • Gather contact information from all parties and witnesses.
  • Photograph and/or video the accident scene thoroughly.
  • Seek medical attention promptly to address your injuries.
  • Contact a Roanoke Uber accident lawyer as soon as possible.

What Are Common Causes of Roanoke Uber Accidents?

Uber drivers do not receive training beyond what regular motorists need for their driver’s licenses. They face the same risks as other drivers while dealing with additional distractions unique to rideshare work.

Common causes of Uber accidents include:

  • Distracted driving – Uber drivers frequently glance at their phones to check the app for new ride requests, follow GPS directions, or communicate with passengers.
  • Speeding – Drivers who want to complete more rides per hour may drive too fast for road conditions or exceed posted speed limits.
  • Fatigue – Many Uber drivers work long hours or drive as a second job after working their primary employment, leading to drowsy driving.
  • Failure to yield – Drivers focused on finding a passenger’s pickup location may fail to yield the right of way at intersections or when merging.
  • Unsafe lane changes – Looking at a phone or GPS device while changing lanes can result in sideswiping other vehicles.
  • Running red lights or stop signs – Drivers rushing to complete fares may take dangerous risks at intersections.
  • Impaired driving – Some drivers operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs despite company policies against this behavior.

What Are Common Injuries in an Uber Accident?

Rideshare crashes can result in the same serious injuries as any motor vehicle accident. Injuries from Uber accidents include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Back injuries and herniated discs
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
  • Psychological trauma.

Some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days after the collision. Seeking immediate medical evaluation ensures that healthcare providers identify and treat all injuries, and medical records establish a direct link between the accident and your condition.

Are Uber Drivers Considered To Be Employees of Uber?

Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This distinction carries significant legal consequences, affecting who may be held responsible for accidents.

When drivers work as independent contractors, Uber generally avoids direct liability for collisions they cause. The company does not exercise the same level of control over contractors as it would over employees, meaning traditional employment liability doctrines may not apply. (However, Uber does provide insurance coverage for its drivers under certain circumstances.)

What Are Virginia’s Insurance Requirements for Ridesharing Companies Like Uber?

Virginia law requires ridesharing companies like Uber to maintain insurance coverage that varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the collision:

  • When the driver is offline, or the app is not active – The driver’s personal auto insurance policy provides coverage.
  • When the driver has the app on but has not yet accepted a ride request – Uber provides contingent liability coverage of at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. (This coverage applies only if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident.)
  • When the driver has accepted a ride request or is actively transporting a passenger – Uber provides at least $1 million in liability coverage for third-party injuries and property damage. This higher coverage amount should apply to accidents that occur while you are riding in an Uber vehicle.

Who Can Be Liable for a Roanoke Uber Accident?

Potentially liable parties in an Uber accident may include:

  • The Uber driver, if their negligence caused the collision
  • Another driver whose negligence led to the crash, such as running through a red light, failing to yield, or driving recklessly
  • Uber itself (under certain circumstances)
  • Manufacturers of defective vehicle parts or malfunctioning safety equipment
  • Government entities, if poorly maintained roads, missing traffic signals, or dangerous road designs contributed to the crash.

Our attorneys will investigate every possible source of compensation to ensure you pursue the maximum recovery available under Virginia law.

What Compensation Could You Recover in a Roanoke Uber Accident Claim?

Virginia law allows injured parties to seek compensation for tangible losses and intangible suffering. An Uber accident claim may include compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (including past medical bills and future medical costs)
  • Lost wages from missed time at work
  • Lost earning capacity due to permanent disabilities
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement.

Does Virginia Have a Statute of Limitations for Filing an Uber Accident Lawsuit?

Virginia law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits. In most cases, you have two years from the injury date to initiate a lawsuit for compensation for your injuries. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to pursue compensation through the court system. Consulting with a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible will protect your ability to seek full compensation.

Contact a Roanoke Uber Accident Lawyer Near You

Since 1911, the personal injury attorneys of Marks & Harrison have fought for injury victims and their families. Our team includes 32 attorneys and more than 130 support staff members, including lawyers and investigators who formerly worked for insurance companies and know how they operate.

Our Client Bill of Rights guarantees we will treat you with respect, care, and compassion throughout the legal process. We have the financial resources to see your case through to the end and the trial experience to take on insurance companies that refuse to offer fair settlements.

Read what our clients have to say in their testimonials and contact us for a free consultation with a Roanoke Uber accident lawyer who will fight for the compensation you deserve.