If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, having a dedicated and experienced lawyer on your side can significantly benefit your claim. At Braker White, our team of Uber accident lawyers in Midland understands the complexities of rideshare accident claims and is committed to fighting for your rights. We provide personalized legal assistance to help you navigate the aftermath of your accident, working to receive the compensation you may deserve for your injuries and losses. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Were You Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Midland, TX?
At Braker White, our Midland Uber accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal complexities involved with rideshare accidents and ensure you receive the compensation you may deserve. Get your free consultation today.
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Table of Contents
- Causes of Rideshare Accidents
- Common Uber Accident Injuries
- What To Do After a Rideshare Accident in Midland
- Compensation Available for Midland Uber Accident Victims
- Proving Fault in a Texas Rideshare Accident
- Understanding Rideshare Insurance
- Uber Accident FAQs
- How a Midland Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help
- Speak to an Uber Accident Lawyer in Midland Today
Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligence or external factors. Common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Uber and Lyft drivers may become distracted by their navigation systems, smartphones, or passengers.
- Driver Fatigue: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, leading to fatigue and decreased reaction times.
- Reckless Driving: Speeding, aggressive driving, and failure to obey traffic signals contribute to many accidents.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Midland’s weather can be unpredictable, with rain, fog, or high winds creating hazardous driving conditions.
Common Uber Accident Injuries
Uber accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-term effects. Some common injuries include:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden impact can cause whiplash, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur even in minor collisions.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in severe accidents, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
If you have sustained any injuries in a rideshare accident, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly, document your injuries, and speak to a rideshare accident lawyer.
What To Do After a Rideshare Accident in Midland
Knowing what to do immediately after an accident in an Uber or Lyft can protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location and check for injuries.
- Call Emergency Services: Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Report to the Rideshare Company: Use the Uber or Lyft app to report the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a medical evaluation is important.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a Midland Uber accident lawyer to discuss your case and legal options.
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Compensation Available for Midland Uber Accident Victims
Victims of Uber accidents in Midland may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
This includes coverage for all medical-related costs such as emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary ongoing treatment. Future medical expenses related to the accident can also be included, ensuring you are not burdened with unexpected costs later on.
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. This not only covers the immediate period following the accident but also includes any future loss of earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous employment or need to take a lower-paying job due to your injuries.
These non-economic damages compensate you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This includes anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life activities you were able to enjoy prior to the accident. Calculating these damages can be complex, and an experienced lawyer can help determine a fair amount.
If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the accident, you could be reimbursed for the repair or replacement costs. This also includes coverage for any personal items inside the vehicle that were damaged during the accident.
In cases where the accident was caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future. Examples include cases involving drunk driving or extreme recklessness by the Uber driver.
Texas law allows accident victims to seek these types of compensation within 2 years from the date of the accident. It is necessary to act promptly to preserve your right to compensation and to ensure that all necessary evidence is collected and presented effectively. Speak with an Uber accident lawyer in Midland today to see what your case may be worth.
Proving Fault in a Texas Rideshare Accident
Establishing fault in an Uber accident is essential for a successful claim. Proving a rideshare driver was negligent involves gathering evidence of the driver’s reckless or distracted driving behavior. Examples of negligence include texting while driving, speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield the right of way. Witness statements, traffic camera footage, and the driver’s own admission can all serve as valuable evidence. Several other important factors that need to be considered to build a strong case include:
Uber has specific policies regarding driver background checks, vehicle inspections, and driver training. Investigating whether Uber complied with these policies and whether the driver met Uber’s safety standards is a prominent aspect of building your case. For example, if an accident occurs and it’s discovered that Uber failed to perform an adequate background check on a driver with a history of reckless driving, Uber’s liability could increase.
Analyzing any violations of Texas traffic laws by the driver or other parties involved is essential. This includes examining whether the driver was speeding, ignoring traffic signals, or driving under the influence. Texas Transportation Code violations can significantly impact the determination of fault.
Police reports and eyewitness statements are vital pieces of evidence. A police report can provide an unbiased account of the accident, including details about the conditions at the scene, any citations issued, and preliminary determinations of fault. Eyewitnesses can provide additional perspectives and confirm details about the driver’s behavior before and during the accident.
Modern vehicles, including those used for ridesharing, often have event data recorders (EDRs) or “black boxes” that record information such as speed, braking, and acceleration at the time of the crash. Accessing and analyzing this data can provide concrete evidence of the driver’s actions.
Your medical records can link your injuries directly to the accident, helping to establish the severity of the impact and the connection between the accident and your physical condition. This can further substantiate claims of pain and suffering as well as other non-economic damages.
Our team will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove liability. By meticulously examining every detail, we aim to establish a clear picture of what happened and who is at fault, helping you receive the full compensation you may deserve for your injuries and losses. Get a free consultation with our Uber accident lawyers today.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance
Uber provides insurance coverage that varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Understanding these coverage periods helps determine which insurance policy applies to your accident:
Period 1: When the driver is logged into the app but has not accepted a ride request.
During this period, Uber provides contingent liability coverage, which means the driver’s personal auto insurance is the primary coverage. If the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident or provides insufficient coverage, Uber’s contingent liability coverage steps in. This coverage includes:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
Period 2: When the driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger.
During this period, Uber’s primary liability coverage is in effect, offering higher levels of protection. This primary coverage ensures that both the driver and passengers are covered from the moment a ride request is accepted until the passenger is picked up. The coverage includes:
- $1 million in third-party liability
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver has such coverage on their personal policy), with a $1,000 deductible
Period 3: When the passenger is in the vehicle.
This period covers the time from when the passenger enters the Uber vehicle until they exit at their destination. Uber provides its highest level of coverage during this period, which includes:
- $1 million in third-party liability
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, ensuring protection if another driver is at fault and lacks adequate insurance
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver has such coverage on their personal policy) with a $1,000 deductible
Each period has specific coverage limits and conditions, impacting the claims process and the compensation you may receive. By identifying the driver’s status at the time of the accident, you can better navigate the insurance claims and ensure you are adequately covered for your injuries and damages.
Uber Accident FAQs
Report the accident to Uber, seek medical attention, and contact a Midland Uber accident lawyer to explore your legal options.
Typically you would file a claim against the driver’s insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance policy. Suing Uber or Lyft directly is rare but possible in certain circumstances.
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident.
Uber’s insurance policy should provide coverage, but it is essential to consult with a lawyer to navigate the claims process.
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How a Midland Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help
At Braker White, our experienced rideshare accident lawyers can:
- Evaluate Your Case: Determine the strength of your claim and the compensation you may be entitled to.
- Investigate the Accident: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze accident reports.
- Negotiate with Insurers: Handle all communications with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
- Represent You in Court: Provide skilled representation if your case goes to trial.
- Ensure Compliance: Ensure all legal deadlines and procedures are followed.
Our goal is to alleviate your burden and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Our Midland Uber Accident Attorneys
Speak to an Uber Accident Lawyer in Midland Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact Braker White today to schedule a free consultation with one of our Midland Uber accident lawyers. We are here to help you every step of the way and ensure your rights are protected.