Only a few years ago, many people relied on public transportation or the yellow cab system to commute from one place to another. This often meant dealing with crowded buses and uncomfortable, unreliable taxis. However, with the advent of tech-based taxi services like Uber and Lyft, those days seem like a thing of the past. Thanks to technology, you can now enjoy the freedom and convenience of a ride with just a few taps on your smartphone. Your Uber ride is just a few touches away.
While the benefits of ride-sharing services are evident, we cannot overlook the potential negative impacts. Like any other vehicle, Uber cars are also susceptible to road accidents, despite the measures in place to regulate and govern this industry. If you are injured in an accident while using ride-sharing services, it is crucial to consult with a qualified vehicle collision attorney. Our Pearland Uber accident lawyers can be your strongest ally when it comes to seeking compensation for your damages after a ride-sharing incident.
Ubers are not your typical taxis. As business entities providing a service, their operations are governed by numerous statutes and state regulations. Most Uber cars are owned by individual drivers rather than the company itself. In other words, car owners lend their vehicles to Uber for taxi purposes. The company does not have strict authority over maintaining the cars, ensuring driver fitness, or controlling ground operations. Consequently, ride-sharing vehicles are susceptible to accidents, just like any other vehicles.
Some of the primary causes of Uber accidents in Pearland include:
Uber quickly and easily hires a vast number of drivers, with over 3 million drivers on the road. Due to the sheer volume of drivers, some drivers with poor driving records may slip through the cracks without thorough evaluation. Consequently, some drivers fail to uphold their duty of care towards other road users by engaging in dangerous driving behaviors such as using mobile phones while driving. This diminishes the driver’s reaction time in the event of an accident. Examples of driver negligence include:
Being a business enterprise, Uber drivers earn their income through commission based on the rides they provide. This means that the more trips a driver completes, the higher their commission. To maximize their earnings, a driver may exceed reasonable speed limits. In the event of a sudden emergency, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, leading to a rollover accident.
State and local laws mandate car owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and safe for use at all times. Failure to properly maintain their cars can contribute to accidents. For instance, regular replacement of brake pads is necessary to ensure the smooth operation and safety of the car and its occupants. If an accident occurs due to brake failure and it is determined that the car owner did not maintain the vehicle to the required standards, the owner may be held accountable for any resulting damages.
Other contributing factors include:
Uber drivers have a duty of care towards their passengers, as well as other motorists and road users. They must uphold this duty at all times to prevent any breaches. An attorney specializing in ride-share accident cases can assist you in determining the specific cause of your collision.
Luckily, car accidents involving Uber vehicles are covered by insurance provided by the Uber corporation. Uber carries a $1 million insurance policy that covers damages caused by their vehicles while on the job. However, it is important to note that this does not guarantee a $1 million compensation. Various factors come into play when determining the settlement amount, including the value of economic and non-economic damages sustained and the severity of injuries. Your degree of fault can also impact the settlement.
The following parties may be responsible for paying your damages:
By hiring a dedicated lawyer, you can increase your chances of recovering the maximum amount of damages in your case.
When you choose our Pearland Uber accident lawyer, you will never receive a bill for our legal services. We operate on a contingency fee basis, recognizing the financial burden of being involved in an accident. We only collect fees if your case is successful. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
