Uber has transformed travel by making it easy and convenient as a great in rideshare. But with such benefits comes a little risk, which can lead to accidents. Uber accident claims can lead to severe injuries to the victim left with complex and daunting insurance battles. Uber accident claims are unique from a typical car accident in that they entail complex questions of liability and more than one party, with large insurance firms that try to short-change and thereby making the claim even more challenging to pursue.
At Johnny Injury Group, led by Jonathan Rashtian, we approach Uber accident claims with care in pursuing full recovery for our clients. We understand that dealing with the intricacies of Uber accident cases is crucial since such cases require dealing with different intricacies of the law so that fault and liability can be correctly determined. Our experienced legal professionals are best suited to deal with the intricacies of such cases so that the parties at fault can be brought to justice. We offer full legal services to our clients, professionally counseling them through each step of the claims process.
You were injured in an Uber accident in Seattle, Washington, and a skilled legal team representing you is needed. At Johnny Injury Group, we are dedicated to representing your rights and labor to achieve the best outcome for your case. Our client-focused practice is intended to reduce stress and inconvenience of court processes so that you can concentrate on your recovery. With your affiliation with us, you can be assured that you are working with a dedicated team of people who are working for your best interests and seeking your rightful justice.
Read Uber’s insurance policy for more information.
Rideshare Accidents: Understanding Complicated Liability with Uber
An injury sustained in an accident with an Uber driver presents unique and commonly complicated problems, particularly with respect to determining liability. Unlike the standard car accident, rideshare cases involve multiple layers of insurance coverage, along with questions about which entity is ultimately responsible. Liability in these cases often depends on the status of the Uber driver at the time of the accident. Were they actively taking a passenger somewhere? Were they on their way to pick someone up? Or were they inactive, waiting for a ride request? Each of these situations is addressed by various provisions of Uber’s insurance policy, and in some cases, the driver’s own personal insurance comes into play as well. Victims will typically encounter resistance from insurance companies, which will attempt to deny claims or limit payouts for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our skilled legal team is committed to handling rideshare accident cases and is accustomed to the complexities involved with Uber’s insurance coverage. Thoroughly knowledgeable about rideshare policies, we identify all applicable sources of compensation and pursue accountable parties. From investigating the accident and reviewing insurance policies to negotiating a settlement or going to court, we’re here to simplify it and minimize the inconvenience of making a claim. If you were the victim as a passenger, pedestrian, or the other driver, you can trust our dedication and legal experience to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve in the case of an Uber-related accident.
Most Common Reasons Behind Uber Accidents in Seattle, Washington
Uber accidents are due to many reasons, most of which involve negligent or careless behavior. The reasons should be found in order to determine liability and claim the damages you deserve. These are the most common reasons behind Uber accidents in Seattle:
Distracted Driving
Uber drivers make use of their smartphones for navigation, ride requests, and communicating with riders. Since they are using mobile phones, they will be more likely to be distracted by: Reading ride alerts, Reading GPS navigation, Reading passenger messages, Changing music or taking calls. A second of distraction can lead to rear-end crashes, side impacts, or pedestrian crashes. Washington’s hands-free law prohibits holding a phone while driving, but enforcement can be difficult, and many Uber drivers still multitask. Jonathan Rashtian and Johnny Injury Group are dedicated to helping victims navigate the complexities of such incidents.
Driver Fatigue
Uber drivers are on the road for long hours, especially drivers in high-demand shifts late into the night or early morning hours. Drowsy driving compromises a driver’s reaction, judgment, and concentration. Drivers get distracted and tired while operating in ridesharing, increasing the risk of taking additional fares to qualify for incentives. Some warning signs of driver drowsiness are: Drifting out of lane, Difficulty in keeping eyes open, Delayed or non-response in stopping at road impediments. Uber accidents can cause serious physical injury, especially where they occur along highways or on roads with high-speed travels. Fortunately, victims can turn to Johnny Injury Group for guidance and representation.
Speed and Reckless Driving
The urgency of delivering passengers as quickly as possible so they can increase the earnings of a ride motivates Uber drivers at times to accelerate or engage in reckless driving that involves: Non-stop basis following speed standards, Weaving between lanes, Tailgating other vehicles, Ignoring traffic signals or red stop signs. If an Uber driver engages in these unsafe maneuvers, the risk of crashes—particularly high-speed crashes—greatly increases. Speeding also results in more severe injuries and higher medical costs for victims. Jonathan Rashtian and his team at Johnny Injury Group are adept at handling these intricate cases in Seattle.
Driving Under the Influence
Although Uber is framed as a responsible substitute for drivers who might otherwise get behind the wheel drunk, some of Uber’s own drivers play dice with their lives by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drugged driving reduces reaction time, makes one less coordinated, and results in poor decision-making, all of which can lead to devastating wrecks. Washington’s DUI legislation has strict sanctions, yet victims are at a disadvantage when the negligent party is intoxicated, particularly when insurers seek to reduce liability.
Inexperienced or Ill-Trained Drivers
Compared to taxi drivers, Uber drivers get no such degree of professional training. Uber’s requirements for qualifying as a driver are minimal, often nothing more than a background check and proof of vehicle registration and insurance. Such limited training can lead to: Poor judgments in crisis situations, Difficulty in driving through heavy traffic, Inability to safely drive through building zones or unknown routes, Misjudging distances or safe stopping distances. New drivers are especially vulnerable to experiencing accidents in complex urban environments like Seattle.
Road Rage and Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving also includes such behaviors as cutting off other vehicles, brake-checking, or not yielding. Uber drivers in a hurry to get to destinations or late to get there will engage in unnecessary risk-taking, endangering passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. Road rage incidents can escalate to the point of a collision or a confrontation that leads to injury.
Weather and Road Conditions
Heavy rain, fog, and slippery roads are prevalent in Seattle, especially during the rainy season. Uber drivers, particularly those who are new to the area or inexperienced, can have a hard time adjusting their driving to compensate for hazardous conditions. Failure to slow down or keep a safe braking distance can result in: Hydroplaning, Skidding into intersections, Loss of control on curves. Poor road conditions such as potholes or road works increase the chances of accidents. Liability in such cases may be tricky as there can be more than one factor involved, including government bodies responsible for road maintenance. Johnny Injury Group, led by Jonathan Rashtian, is committed to addressing these challenges and securing justice for accident victims in Seattle.
Injuries That May Happen In an Uber Crash in Seattle, Washington
No matter what caused the accident, Johnny Injury Group is ready to help with your case. Reach out to Jonathan Rashtian and his legal team to schedule a free consultation today. We’ll take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and walk you through your legal options with care and clarity. From the moment you contact us, you’ll have a dedicated team in your corner, committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
Whiplash
Whiplash is also one of the most frequent types of injuries in Uber accidents, where the neck is made to move back and forth suddenly, similar to a whip cracking. This shock movement leads to a stretching of the neck muscles, ligaments, and tendons and results in headaches, stiffness, and restricted motion. In extreme cases, they will have terrible headaches and get dizzy. Since the symptoms may not appear within a short time from the accident, it must be treated immediately. Early treatment and diagnosis will also prevent worsening of the condition, therefore, an uncomplicated recovery process. Proper treatment would typically involve physical therapy, medication, and, in severe cases, chiropractic therapy.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Fractures and broken bones are seriously hazardous conditions that could be a consequence of the sudden stiffness of an Uber crash. These kinds of injuries could range from simple fractures that will heal within time to very complicated breaks that will involve a lot of surgery and physical therapy. The most common injured areas are the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. These injuries, besides being very painful, can lead to loss of function and mobility, impacting one’s work and daily activity. Medical screening and imaging, like X-rays, should be done properly for fracture diagnosis and management. Following the medical advice and rehabilitation procedures should be adhered to in order to prevent full recovery complications.
Head Injuries
Head injury, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and concussions may be incapacitating and can have long-lasting effects on the accident victim. Such injuries happen due to trauma to the head from impact into so-called “deceleration impact” upon some surface, i.e., dashboard or windshield, following an automobile accident. They may also be preceded by fairly diverse symptoms from the isolated nonspecific one to the overt symptomatology in the form of headache, dizziness, confusion, right up to the more intellectual dysfunction and personality change. Since the brain has to control part of the body as well as intellectual functions, even a minor head injury has to be medically evaluated. Rehabilitation and therapy can take a long time to recover from by experts who are trained to do this work such as neurologists and cognitive therapists. The victims need to take care of themselves on a regular basis and undergo treatments as and when needed.
Wrongful Death
Wrongful death is the most severe outcome of an Uber accident, where a person loses their life due to the negligence or irresponsible behavior of another party. This loss causes enormous emotional suffering to the family and can also lead to financial losses such as funeral costs, lost wages, and other losses. Other surviving family members might also be entitled to file a wrongful death claim so that they may get justice and compensation for the loss. Professional legal assistance will typically be required to navigate complex legal procedures and get the guilty person or organization to account for their actions. In these traumatic circumstances, compassionate legal work can be a true lifesaver for families who are trying to gain closure and financial independence when they lose their loved one.
The Complications that go into Uber Accidents in Seattle, Washington
Rideshare services like Uber are now a common part of life in Seattle, providing an easy way for people to get to where they need to be with the swipe of a phone screen. But when an Uber ride turns out to be a disaster accident, it can become very complicated especially deciding who is responsible and whose insurance pays for it.
One of the main reasons that these cases can be so complex is that Uber drivers are independent contractors, not employees. That makes it a gray area legally, especially when trying to determine who is going to pay for your damages and injuries. Washington state law requires Uber to have insurance coverage for its drivers, but how much that coverage is completely depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.
- If the Uber driver was offline, only their personal car insurance would cover them.
- If they were online and waiting for a pickup request, Uber has limited liability protection.
- Once they have accepted a pickup or while the pickup is in progress, Uber’s $1 million policy kicks in and should be able to cover the damages.
Worried about which policy will apply and whether the insurance firm is even going to cooperate can be intimidating, to put it mildly, when you’re trying to heal. That’s where the Johnny Injury Group comes in. Our Seattle-area lawyers, headed by Jonathan Rashtian, have experience navigating the twists and turns of Uber accident claims and the bureaucratic entanglements that come with them.
Insurance Companies Don’t Make It Easy—But We’re Here for You
It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to deny, delay, or deny adequate coverage on legitimate rideshare accident claims. They’ll dispute the application of Uber’s policy, assign all fault to a whole other driver, or try to downplay your injury severity. These runarounds will make you feel like you’re facing a mountain you can’t ascend to just get the compensation and care to which you’re entitled.
At Johnny Injury Group, we know how these insurance companies operate and we understand how to take them on. Whether fighting to get your medical bills paid, wages lost, or suffering and pain, we are by your side every step of the way. You recover. We handle the rest.
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident in Seattle, don’t wait to get help. Contact Jonathan Rashtian and the Johnny Injury Group today for a free consultation and let us start building your path toward justice and recovery.
Types of Uber Accidents We Handle
Uber accidents can occur in various ways, each with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, it’s essential to have a lawyer who understands the nuances of your specific situation. Our firm represents clients in the following scenarios:
- Passengers injured in Uber collisions
- Uber drivers involved in accidents with negligent motorists
- Pedestrians or cyclists hit by Uber vehicles
- Drivers involved in accidents with Uber cars
- Incidents arising from reckless Uber drivers
Each case demands careful handling. Collecting critical evidence, such as Uber ride logs, police reports, and witness testimonies, can bolster your claim and help establish liability.
Hurt as an Uber Passenger
Uber passengers desire a secure ride, but car accidents happen. Passengers desire to believe that Uber’s policy will take care of all this, but the insurance companies do not always play along. You might be working with injuries to be treated with frequent medical care, and you have bills accumulating that are building up without knowing when you are going to be compensated.
Alternatively, Uber’s insurance may recover fault from another driver, delaying payments and complicating your claim. Uber’s insurance will pay for passenger injury but delay or deny claims. Insurers may try to make a low offer or fault another driver to avoid paying. We have been doing this for years and are able to negotiate and recover the amount you are entitled to.
Hurt As An Uber Driver
Uber drivers face risks every time they hit the road. If another driver causes a crash, their insurance should cover your injuries. Driving for Uber means constantly sharing the road with distracted, reckless, or impaired drivers. When an accident happens, getting compensation for your injuries isn’t always straightforward. The at-fault driver’s insurance may refuse to pay, or their policy limits might not be enough to cover your losses.
But if they do not have insurance or adequate coverage, then we may be forced to have the insurance of Uber. According to the laws of Georgia, Uber must have uninsured motorist coverage but these individuals are not easy to resolve. Insurers would always be looking for a means of denying their claims and thus hiring our attorneys would make it possible.
Hit By an Uber
If you are hit by an Uber driver, who pays for your injury will depend on the driver’s status. Being hit by an Uber car can cause serious injury and a messy process of claims. If you are riding as a passenger in another vehicle, Uber and the company of the driver can battle over who should pay.
As a bicyclist or pedestrian, the damage can be much more severe, including costly medical expenses and lost income while recovering. If they were using the app, Uber insurance could pay. Otherwise, they are responsible under their own policy. The insurance companies will battle it out, and the victims will be caught in the middle. Our professional attorneys can gather evidence, prove fault, and negotiate for an equitable settlement.
Available 24/7 for Legal Assistance
Following an accident, the trauma and complexity of the legal and logistical problems can be overwhelming to untangle. Anticipating this urgent need for immediate and solid guidance, Johnny Injury Group provides seasoned legal advice available 24/7. 24/7 available, their professional staff is always willing to offer immediate advice and strategic direction so that you can get the assistance that you need in order to move through legal processes successfully. The 24/7 availability allows you to be able to initiate work on legal matters immediately, which can help in protecting important evidence, dealing with insurance companies proactively, and protecting your rights in a timely manner. With Johnny Injury Group’s ongoing support services, clients can have peace of mind in knowing that seasoned legal help is always within reach, at any time and any situation, and this reaffirms their dedication to complete and immediate attention following any accident.
Free Consultations at our Seattle Office
Jonathan Rashtian and the Johnny Injury staff at our Seattle office are pleased to provide free consultations to all potential clients in the hopes of removing any ambiguity when it comes to speaking with an attorney. Our free consultation is an opportunity for individuals to sit down with our experienced legal team, explain their individual situation, and discuss options without being charged a fee upfront. Our Seattle law office is situated in the center of town, making it easier for clients from either end of town to come in, and we strive to provide an environment of openness and truth. Through these free consultations, Jonathan Rashtian and Johnny Injury allow clients to have their legal options thoroughly explored, so they can leave more educated with a clearer picture of their case and potential legal action. This commitment to free consultations not only reflects our commitment to the health and well-being of our clients but to our commitment to open, fair legal representation for every member of our community.
Bilingual Services at Johnny Injury Group
We recognize at Johnny Injury Group how important clear, effective communication is, especially when dealing with legal matters that can have a profound impact on the lives of our clients. To better serve our diverse clientele, we are happy to offer bilingual services so that language will not be a barrier to seeking quality legal representation. Our bilingual representatives can speak both Spanish and English verbally so that we can better serve more clients who would feel more comfortable communicating their legal issues in their own language. This service enables more precise communication, enhances comprehension, and establishes trust, enabling us to provide tailored and successful legal resolutions that meet the distinctive needs of every client. By offering bilingual services, Johnny Injury Group is demonstrating our commitment to diversity and our aspiration to make legal assistance accessible to everybody in our community, irrespective of their native language.
Arrange a Consultation with an Uber Accident Attorney at Johnny Law Group Today
Recovery from an Uber accident can be daunting. Medical expenses, lost income, and fighting insurance companies can make you even more anxious. You don’t need to do it by yourself. Our seasoned accident lawyers at Johnny Law Group, Jonathan Rashtian leading the team, are ready to ease the legal process for you as you focus on recovering.
Each case is in our opinion a unique story. You may be suffering from physical injuries, shock, and financial losses as a result of the crash. That is why we invest time hearing and grasping your story. By collecting important documents such as ride receipts, accident reports, and available witness statements, we establish a firm foundation for your claim. Your journey is important to us, and our hope is to provide you with clarity and direction along the way.
If you or the one you care about has been injured in an Uber accident, contact us now on our website or at (206) 590-7669 for a free consultation. We will lay out your options and guide you through the process of your case. You pay nothing upfront, and we only charge fees if we recover funds for you. Call immediately to begin your path to recovery.