Uber has exploded in popularity in recent years as commuters turn away from more traditional modes of public transportation. But as the use of this rideshare program has increased, so too has the likelihood of being involved in a West Palm Beach Uber accident.
The fact that an Uber driver is involved in a wreck adds an element of complexity to the case. Nonetheless, victims have the right to seek compensation. It starts with retaining a skilled West Palm Beach Uber Accident lawyer to represent you. Count on Steinberg Law.
Common West Palm Beach Uber Accident Injuries
Victims of Uber accidents experience the same types of injuries as those of any other type of car crash. You may be an Uber passenger or a motorist or a passenger in another vehicle. Regardless, you could be faced with injuries such as:
- Neck and spinal cord injuries (e.g. muscle strains, whiplash, and herniated discs)
- Head injuries (e.g. traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and skull fractures)
- Other bone fractures such as broken arms and legs
- Back problems
- Internal organ damage
- Lacerations
- Amputations
An Uber accident can be so serious that the victim suffers permanent disability. In some cases, the victim succumbs to his or her injuries and dies. Eligible survivors then have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, which is similar to a personal injury claim.
West Palm Beach Uber Accident victims have the right to seek substantial damages by filing a lawsuit. Some examples of Uber accident damages include:
- Medical bills, including for hospitalization, surgery, and adaptive medical equipment
- Prescription drugs
- Lost income
- Lost of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Wrongful death, if the victim dies
Complicating Factors with West Palm Beach Uber Accidents
There are several issues that make seeking compensation for a West Palm Beach Uber accident different from traditional car crashes. For one, Uber and other rideshare companies have attempted to distance themselves from their employees. They often consider them to be independent contractors. Our firm examines the individual facts of each case and pursues all potentially liable parties.
Another complication is insurance. Uber is generally required to provide liability coverage for its drivers. However, Uber may contest whether its insurance was activated at the time of the accident. The answer will depend largely on what the driver was doing when the wreck occurred.
Uber’s coverage usually begins when the driver is linked to a passenger and goes to pick him or her up. The passenger is covered during the ride, so if there’s an accident, he or she can file a claim.
It’s possible that more than one insurance company could be implicated in the accident. Uber may argue, for instance, that the driver’s personal insurance policy should be liable. Again, the resolution to this will depend mainly on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident. You will need a dedicated West Palm Beach Uber accident lawyer to help handle the challenges of competing insurance policies.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been in an Uber Accident
If you’ve been in a wreck of any kind, seek medical attention for yourself and your passengers. Failure to do so could jeopardize your health and your legal claim. Call 911 and let law enforcement come to the scene to make a police report. This document will contain basic information that will come in handy later.
Next, take notes about the accident. Write down anything you can remember leading up to and immediately after the crash. Record video and take pictures of the scene as well. If there were witnesses, get their names and contact information. Also, begin collecting any documents related to your injuries. Medical records and documentation of lost wages are just two examples.
It’s Time to Speak with a West Palm Beach Uber Accident Attorney
Finally, retain a law firm that has experience handling Uber accident claims. That law firm is Steinberg Law. We are dedicated to recovering the maximum damages available under law for West Palm Beach Uber accident victims. Schedule your confidential consultation with us today.
