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Uber and other ridesharing services have made public transportation in the nation’s capital much more accessible. However, as the number of these vehicles on the roads increases, so do the chances of a ridesharing accident. If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident in Washington, D.C., you could seek compensation for your injuries and other losses.
A Washington D.C. Uber accident lawyer from Marks & Harrison can help you pursue financial relief for medical bills, lost wages, and other crash-related losses. For over a century, our firm has advocated for the rights of injury victims, recovering millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. Contact our office today for a free consultation to find out how we can do the same for you.
How Do Uber Accidents Happen?
Uber accidents have many of the same causes as other traffic accidents. However, an Uber driver is more likely to be distracted behind the wheel because they must use the Uber app to find passengers. While they are not supposed to use the app while driving, they might still use it during busy times to get more rides. An Uber driver may also become distracted by a GPS if they are looking for an address.
Are Uber Drivers Covered by Insurance?
Uber drivers should be covered by insurance. However, the applicable insurance depends on whether a driver is logged into the Uber app when a crash occurs. When drivers are not logged into the app or accepting trips, their personal auto insurance policies apply. Uber provides third-party liability coverage when drivers are logged into the app and waiting for trips. When drivers are actively on a trip, Uber provides additional coverage.
Uber’s insurance coverage applies in the following situations:
- When the driver is logged into the app and available for a trip:
- $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
- When the driver is on a trip or on the way to one:
- $1,000,000 per accident in property damage and bodily injury
What Other Options Do I Have for Compensation?
Washington, D.C. follows a no-fault system for car insurance. This means drivers typically file claims with their own insurance policies to recover compensation, regardless of who is at fault for a crash.
If you are injured in a car accident, you should file a claim with your insurer. You could recover compensation for your crash-related medical expenses and lost wages if you purchased optional personal injury protection (PIP) insurance.
Generally, the no-fault system bars car accident victims from suing another driver for compensation.
However, you could have the right to seek money from the other driver if:
- Your economic losses exceed the limits of your policy, or
- You suffer injuries that cause substantial permanent scarring and disfigurement, substantial permanent impairment, or a total impairment for more than 180 continuous days.
A skilled Washington, D.C. Uber accident attorney can determine what sources of compensation you may be able to pursue and help you maximize your financial recovery.
What Should I Do If I Am Involved in an Uber Car Accident?
If you’re in an Uber car accident, dial 911 for emergency medical services if you or someone else suffered injuries. Even if you feel fine at the crash scene, you should see your doctor immediately, as some injuries take days or weeks to manifest symptoms.
You should also take the following steps after an Uber accident:
- Report the accident to Uber using the app.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, visible injuries, road conditions, and property damage caused by the crash.
- Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the crash.
- Report the accident to your insurer, even if you are not at fault.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
- Request a copy of the police crash report if law enforcement responded to the scene.
- Contact an experienced Uber accident lawyer to learn more about your rights and legal options for pursuing compensation.
What Compensation Can I Receive for My Injuries in an Uber Accident?
Depending on the circumstances of the Uber accident and the extent of your injuries, you may have the right to recover compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
How Long Can It Take to Settle an Accident Case with Uber?
Settling an Uber car accident claim may take several months. If you suffer severe injuries that result in permanent impairments or disability, it can take even longer. An attorney can review the details of your case, identify all potential avenues for seeking compensation, and advise you on how long it might take to settle with Uber. Contact our Washington DC Uber accident lawyer now.
What Is the Deadline for Filing an Uber Accident Claim in Washington, D.C.?
The Code of the District of Columbia gives injury victims three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit against at-fault parties. If you fail to file before the deadline, you could lose your right to pursue compensation in civil court. Contact our Washington DC personal injury lawyer today.
Why Are Uber Accident Claims More Complicated?
Uber accident claims are often more complicated than other accident claims because multiple parties might be liable for injuries and other damages from the accident. And, if you’re filing a claim against Uber, it can be intimidating and challenging to demand the compensation you’re owed from a large company. However, an experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances of your accident, gather crucial evidence, and identify who is responsible for the crash. An Uber accident lawyer can also identify all possible sources of compensation, including insurance coverages, to help you seek maximum compensation.
Contact a Washington, D.C. Uber Accident Lawyer
Were you involved in an accident that an Uber driver caused? If so, you need practical, experienced legal representation to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other crash-related losses. Contact Marks & Harrison today for a free consultation with a Washington, D.C. Uber accident attorney. For over a century, our Washington DC car accident lawyer has fought for the rights of injury victims, helping them recover compensation and demand justice after devastating accidents. We’re ready to help you, too.
