Throughout Richmond, many people place their trust in Uber drivers to help them get safely to their destinations.
Unfortunately, Uber drivers can sometimes make mistakes or violate the rules of the road, and this can result in serious or even fatal auto accidents.
Whether you were a passenger in an Uber that got into an accident or an Uber struck you or your vehicle, you need to understand your rights in the aftermath of a crash caused by an Uber driver.
These types of crash claims can be more complex because Uber and the driver both may have insurance coverage, and you need an attorney familiar with rideshare accident cases.
Monge & Associates Richmond personal injury lawyers have successfully represented many clients harmed by rideshare drivers, and we can put our legal knowledge of these complex claims to work for you.
Just give us a call to schedule your free consultation with a Richmond Uber accident lawyer to learn about the help we can offer in getting compensation for your losses.
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Call Our Richmond Uber Accident Lawyers Today
Why Choose Monge & Associates
When you need an advocate on your side after an Uber accident, there are many reasons to place your trust in Monge & Associates. Some of the reasons to choose our firm to represent you include the following:
- We have a history of solid verdicts. We’ve already stood up to Uber and Lyft, negotiated fair settlements with their insurers, and taken them to court to collect millions in compensation for crash victims.
- We have a history of satisfied clients. We have received thousands of five-star reviews, with clients praising our knowledge and our compassion in the aftermath of rideshare accidents.
- We understand the laws governing rideshare claims. We know how the law classifies drivers, how Uber’s insurance coverage works, how to subpoena records needed to build your case, and all of the other details that impact the outcome of a rideshare claim.
Our firm won’t charge legal fees unless you win, and we will be there for you at every step as you stand up to Uber to recover for your devastating injuries.
Understanding Uber and Rideshare Laws in Virginia
Uber drivers are independent contractors in Virginia, which means that vicarious liability laws do not apply.
However, in 2015, the Virginia General Assembly passed certain laws regulating digital platforms like Uber and Lyft.
Under these laws, ridesharing services must go through the licensed app of a transportation network company.
TNC partners must publish certain details about fares and driver policies on their websites, and TNCs have to properly screen drivers, ensuring they meet minimum age requirements and that the company reviews driving records.
TNCs operating in Virginia also must meet minimum insurance requirements, including having at least $1 million in liability coverage.
Crash victims should be aware of these rules, including the insurance coverage requirements, as these requirements can affect who pays for their injuries in the aftermath of an accident.
When you work with an experienced Richmond Uber accident lawyer at Monge & Associates, our legal team stays on top of the law and ensures that you are protecting your rights and taking the necessary steps to maximize the compensation you collect under Virginia law.
What to Do Immediately After an Uber Accident in Richmond, VA
In the aftermath of an Uber accident, it’s important that you take steps to protect your health and to protect your right to make a legal claim. Some of the steps that you’ll need to take to do that include:
- Taking pictures from the scene of the accident
- Getting the contact details of the Uber driver, other drivers involved in the accident, and witnesses to the crash
- Calling the police to report the accident and to make sure an investigation is conducted so you can get a copy of the accident report later
- Getting prompt medical help and making sure your doctor documents all of your injuries and the treatments you receive
You can also begin keeping a pain journal, in addition to keeping track of medical bills and time missed from work, as the more evidence you have of your damages, the more likely it is that you will be able to recover full compensation for losses.
You will, of course, also need to report the accident to Uber.
Working with an attorney when discussing the details of the incident can be helpful to make sure you are not doing anything that adversely impacts your claim, so be sure that you call a lawyer right away after an Uber crash.
Common Injuries in Uber Accidents
Victims of Uber accidents can suffer many different kinds of injuries.
Whether you are a passenger in the Uber or an Uber driver struck you while you were walking, bicycling, or in your own vehicle, you could be severely hurt because of the force of the impact from the accident.
Some of the most common injuries resulting from Uber accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injury
- Soft tissue injuries like strains and sprains
- Lacerations and contusions
If you suffer certain types of injuries, including spinal cord and brain injuries, you may never fully recover from the damage that was done.
You’ll need to make sure you document the extent of the damage, keep your medical records, and document the pain and suffering you are experiencing so the Uber driver or others responsible for harming you can be held accountable.
How a Richmond Uber Accident Lawyer Can Help You
A Richmond Uber accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance as you navigate the aftermath of your Uber accident.
Monge & Associates will:
- Help you to gather evidence of fault, such as witness statements, cell phone records, records from the Uber app, and expert testimony. These records could help to show, for example, that the driver was distracted on the app or was fatigued because he had been logged in too long
- Assist you in proving the extent of your damages by obtaining medical records and taking steps to prove your pain and discomfort.
- Negotiate a settlement with Uber’s insurer, the drivers insurer, or others responsible for the accident.
- Go to court on your behalf when insurers won’t make a fair settlement offer.
Our goal is always to make sure you get the maximum compensation and that your claim is as stress-free as possible.
Compensation Available in Uber Accident Claims
You should be fully compensated for damages caused by your Uber driver or others liable for your accident. This means you should be paid for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
When the accident causes fatal injuries, then wrongful death damages can also be awarded to surviving loved ones, including compensation for funeral costs and lost companionship.
Contact Our Richmond Uber Accident Lawyers Today
Monge & Associates is here to help after a rideshare accident.
Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation with a Richmond Uber accident lawyer who will be there for you at every step of your case.