Uber Accident Lawyer in Seattle

In 2021, there were 12,285 active ride-hailing permits in King County.  These permits include all rideshare services, including Uber.

With so many drivers available, it is clear that these services are still popular today.

While true, there is a potential downside. For example, the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities increases with more drivers on the road.

Do you know your rights if you are injured in an Uber accident? Whether you are the driver, passenger, or passenger in another vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation if someone else’s negligence causes your accident and injuries.

At Bernard Law Group our Seattle car accident attorneys can help you understand your rights and ensure you recover the compensation you deserve if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence. 

Why You Need an Experienced Uber Accident Lawyer

Any accident involving Uber can create grey areas on the legal side. These accidents are different than traditional auto collisions and determining insurance coverage and liability can be challenging.  

Uber accident lawyers in Seattle from Bernard Law Group have represented countless victims of Uber accidents. This first-hand experience ensures our attorneys have the skills and know-how to resolve these claims successfully.

We are not afraid to take on the multi-billion dollar insurance companies to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.

You Were Hurt. We Can Help.

Over $500 Million recovered for our past clients. Let us help YOU! Call 24/7 for your FREE injury consultation.

Click Here for a Free Case Review

206-298-9900

Understanding Liability in Uber Accidents

As with any car accident, it is necessary to determine liability when an Uber accident occurs. Your legal options depend on the following:

• Your role (driver, passenger, or third party)
• Which party caused the accident

Third-Party Liability

If the driver of a different vehicle is at fault and struck the Uber car you were riding in, resulting in your injuries, you can file a claim against the third party’s insurance. In this situation, the process is like what you would do in any other car accident claim.

Uber’s insurance may provide coverage if the third-party driver is uninsured or underinsured and cannot cover your losses. However, this is another challenging situation that must be handled properly. Our Seattle Uber accident attorneys can help. 

Uber Liability

If you were riding as a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian and the Uber driver caused an accident, then you would file a claim with Uber’s insurance company. However, there are specifications on when Uber’s insurance applies to your case. We can review the facts to determine if you qualify for a settlement from Uber’s insurance.  

Uber Driver

If you are driving for Uber when you are involved in an accident and injured, the situation can be extremely complex. Some of the factors to understand in this situation include:

• You were driving, and your passenger injured you. In this case, you can file a civil claim against the passenger.
• You were driving with the app on when the incident occurred. Uber’s insurance should cover damages and injuries.
• Your accident occurred while waiting for a ride or while you were off duty. In this case, you must file a claim against your insurance company (or the at-fault party’s insurance company). 

Insurance Coverage Considerations in Uber Accidents

When Uber hires a driver, they should conduct background checks. This check should include information about their driving record. The driver should also undergo a driving test. Even with this rigorous screening process, accidents happen.

Uber drivers carry liability insurance of $1 million. This should cover damages and injuries if someone is injured. Usually, this coverage applies to passengers riding in Uber vehicles and other pedestrians or drivers who are hit by Uber vehicles.  

The $1 million liability coverage is applicable as soon as an Uber driver agrees to a trip with a customer.

As mentioned above, if an accident occurs while the Uber driver is waiting for a trip but has not accepted it, then Uber’s insurance does not apply. Also, since Uber drivers are considered to be working, even without an accepted trip, their insurance may not apply either.

This is where an “insurance gap” may apply.

Consider the following:

• The driver is on the app but has not accepted a rider: In most cases, Uber’s insurance does not cover these situations. If the driver is uninsured or their insurance refuses to cover the damages, Uber may cover up to $50,000 in injuries, $25,000 in property damage, and $100,000 total.
• The driver has been matched to a rider and is driving to collect them: Uber provides coverage.
• The driver has a rider in their vehicle: Uber provides coverage.

Types of Compensation You Can Recover in Uber Accidents

The compensation you may recover after an Uber accident is similar to any other auto accident. These include:

Medical Expenses

Victims of Uber accidents in Seattle can seek compensation for medical expenses resulting from the accident. This includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatments required due to injuries sustained. Documenting all medical care and associated costs is crucial in ensuring comprehensive coverage of these expenses.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If an injury from an Uber accident results in time away from work, victims may recover lost wages. Additionally, if the injury impacts the victim’s ability to work in the future, compensation can include the loss of earning capacity. This type of compensation accounts for the difference between the victim’s earnings before and after the accident.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for pain and suffering covers the physical pain and emotional distress suffered by the victim. This includes not only immediate pain but also long-term effects such as chronic discomfort, depression, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life. The severity of the injury and its impact on the victim’s day-to-day life play a significant role in determining the compensation for pain and suffering.

Property Damage

Victims can seek compensation for damage to personal property, including vehicle repair or replacement costs. This covers the damages to the Uber vehicle if the victim was a driver and any personal belongings that were damaged or lost in the accident.

Navigating the complexities of compensation in Uber accidents in Seattle requires understanding the specific circumstances of the accident and how local laws apply. It is beneficial to consult with an attorney specializing in such cases to ensure all potential areas of compensation are explored and maximized.

Contact Us for Help with Your Uber Accident Claim in Seattle

If you are involved in an Uber accident, our experienced Seattle attorneys are here to help. Contact our office to schedule a free, no-risk consultation.