Dallas Uber Accident Lawyer

Uber has become an increasingly popular mode of transportation. Rideshare services like Uber are affordable, convenient, and often quicker than other forms of public transport.

However, like with all forms of transport, there are inherent risks. Sadly, the number of traffic accidents and fatalities related to Uber’s platform has been rising recently, with 101 fatalities in 2019 and 2020. Knowing your legal rights is crucial after an Uber accident and a Dallas Uber accident lawyer could be your best defense.

If you were hurt in an Uber accident, you might wish to pursue compensation. Contact DFW Injury Lawyers for help securing the financial compensation you deserve.

With a team of experienced attorneys experienced in handling Uber accident injury claims, we have the knowledge and resources to help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t suffer in silence after an Uber accident: It’s time to ask for help.

Is Uber in Dallas? What To Know About Available Services

Uber has operated in Dallas since 2012, making it one of the earliest rideshare companies in this vibrant city, paving the way for others like Lyft to follow suit in 2013.

Today, Uber remains a popular choice for getting around in Dallas. With the opening of the Uber Dallas headquarters in 2020, the city has become even more intertwined with the company.

In Dallas, Uber provides a range of transportation services including the standard UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Premier, Uber Black, Uber XL, and Uber Eats.

Is Uber Safe in Dallas?

Uber has strict standards for its drivers and their vehicles to help ensure a safe and comfortable ride for everyone. All cars must meet certain requirements, such as being in good condition with no cosmetic damage and having four doors.

Vehicles must be 16 years old or newer, and Uber provides a list of eligible vehicles for each city, including cars eligible for Uber Black or Uber Comfort classifications.

Riders can further protect their safety in an Uber by taking certain precautions: Always wear your seat belt and sit in the back seat of the car. Before getting in, double-check you have the correct vehicle by matching the license plate and driver information on the app.

It’s also a good idea to let a friend know your location or use the “share status” feature available in the app. Keep your personal information to yourself and trust your instincts regarding your safety. Be cautious when entering and exiting an Uber vehicle and ensure the driver’s information matches the details provided in the app.

Uber conducts its own screening process for drivers, which includes criminal and driving record checks. The extent of these background checks has been a topic of much contention.

For instance, Austin passed local legislation requiring Uber and Lyft to implement fingerprint background checks. In 2017, Governor Greg Abbot signed a bill overriding this act, bringing Uber and Lyft back to the city.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Dallas, one of the most dangerous areas for drivers, has the second-worst traffic fatality rate in the country. In 2022 alone, a staggering 33,980 crashes occurred in the city. The high number of incidents on the roads can be attributed to a few recurring factors.

Common causes of rideshare accidents in Dallas include:

Fatigued Driving

Drivers may work long hours and try to meet high demands, leading to exhaustion and decreased focus on the road. The National Safety Council (NSC) says that every year, more than 100,000 crashes in the US are from fatigued driving. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says the number is likely over 300,000.

Texas has some of the highest rates of drowsy driving. A 2016 study by Patch revealed that drivers in Texas are four times likelier to die of a sleepy-driver-related crash than those in California. In 2016, 20 percent of fatigued-driver deaths were in Texas.

Distracted Driving

Distractions, such as using a cell phone, can take a driver’s attention away from the road. Uber does not allow drivers to touch any of their phone’s functions except for accepting or declining a ride.

Texas also passed legislation banning texting while driving in 2017. Additionally, Federal law prohibits texting and driving for all commercial drivers.

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of accidents in Dallas, with more than 3,000 accidents attributed to excessive speed each year. Some Uber drivers may feel the need to exceed speed limits to get to their destination faster, meet high demand, or earn more money. This could potentially endanger themselves and others on the road.

Driving Under the Influence

Despite the serious consequences, some rideshare drivers may operate their vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can significantly impair their ability to drive safely.

Impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of fatal crashes in Texas, contributing to approximately 25% of all fatal accidents. Uber has a strict policy against driving under the influence, but passengers should be vigilant and report any signs of impaired driving.

Not Following Traffic Signals

Failing to adhere to traffic signals, such as running red lights or stop signs, can lead to serious accidents. Drivers may become impatient or careless, putting themselves and others in danger. Rideshare drivers and other motorists must follow traffic laws and signals to maintain the safety of everyone on the road.

Improper Turns and Unsafe Lane Changes

Uber drivers unfamiliar with an area or in a rush to reach their destination may make improper turns or unsafe lane changes. Making improper turns or sudden lane changes without signaling can cause accidents and put passengers and other drivers in danger.

Careless left-hand turns, particularly in intersections, are behind almost half of motorcycle accidents, according to the National Highway and Traffic Administration. Uber drivers should always follow proper turning and merging procedures.

How Many Uber Accidents Are There in Dallas?

In the bustling city of Dallas, Uber accidents are unfortunately not uncommon. As Ubers are considered commercial vehicles in Texas, they are subject to the same risks and hazards as any other vehicle on the road. In fact, in 2022 alone, there were a staggering 3,999 commercial vehicle crashes reported in Dallas.

Although it’s not specified how many of these crashes involved Ubers, the fact remains that accidents with rideshare vehicles are a major concern in Dallas. Whether it’s due to distracted driving, fatigued driving, or other factors, the chance of being involved in an Uber accident is something that should not be taken lightly.

Texas House Bill 19: Rideshare Laws

Texas House Bill 19, signed into law by Governor Abbot on June 9, 2023, has significant implications for the rideshare industry in the state. This legislation addresses the classification of rideshare drivers as commercial motor vehicle operators. This means rideshare drivers are subject to certain regulations and requirements. It also includes provisions that shield employers from lawsuits against their commercial driver employees.

Guidance from a rideshare attorney can be crucial for navigating this new legislation with confidence. They can help you understand the nuances of the law and help you recover maximum compensation and protection in case of an Uber accident.

Who May Be Liable in a Dallas Uber Accident?

Since Uber drivers are considered independent contractors, Uber itself is not automatically responsible under the doctrine of “respondeat superior.” This often makes identifying the potentially liable party in an Uber accident challenging.

However, that doesn’t mean that Uber is completely off the hook. Uber does have a certain level of responsibility for ensuring the safety of their drivers and passengers. If an Uber driver’s negligence or recklessness causes an accident, Uber may be liable to some extent. A skilled accident attorney can thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, gather evidence, and determine the responsible parties.

Both Uber and Lyft have settled with individuals and organizations in the past. Lyft settled for $25 million over safety concerns, and Uber has settled over ADA violations. Consulting a knowledgeable Dallas Uber/Lyft accident lawyer gives you the peace of mind your rights are protected and you can focus on healing while your legal team does the fighting for you.

Uber and Insurance Claims

Insurance coverage for Uber accidents varies depending on the situation. If a driver is not working at the time of the accident or has their driver app turned off, they are not covered by Uber’s insurance. In these cases, the driver is usually responsible for any damages or injuries.

When the driver is available and waiting for a ride request, Uber provides contingent liability coverage. In other words, if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident, Uber’s insurance may step in and provide coverage.

During trips and while driving to pick up a rider, Uber’s commercial auto liability insurance kicks in. This insurance provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage caused by the driver. The maximum coverage for these situations is $1 million. All Uber drivers must have their own insurance policy in line with their state’s requirements.

Uber also has third party liability insurance. When the driver is at fault, their insurance is applied before Uber’s. If Uber is deemed at fault, the total compensation is 1 million dollars at the highest with their commercial auto liability insurance coverage. Most personal auto insurance policies do not include coverage for ridesharing activities.

Therefore, Uber drivers must have their own insurance policy that meets their state’s requirements. Beyond that, Uber offers optional injury protection plans for drivers that provide additional coverage for disability payments, medical expenses, and survivor benefits in cases of wrongful death.

What Happens if You Get in an Accident While in an Uber?

First and foremost, prioritize your safety. If you or anyone else involved sustained a serious injury, call 911. If it’s safe to do so, gather information from the scene, including the names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved.

Take photos of the accident scene, including any damages to the vehicles. If necessary, call the police to document the accident. They can create an official police report, which might serve as critical evidence in your case. Report the accident to Uber by contacting support and providing the relevant details.

Seek medical attention after the accident, even if you don’t believe you were hurt. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and a thorough medical evaluation can help identify any hidden injuries. If your regular doctor refuses to deal with accident-related insurance matters, local Dallas accident lawyers can guide you to another healthcare provider.

Next, request legal representation from an experienced Uber car accident lawyer. They can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Having the best rideshare accident lawyer by your side can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Does Uber Pay When You Are in a Car Accident?

Uber has some insurance coverage in place for accidents involving their drivers, but the amount of coverage and the circumstances under which the company pays vary.

Uber and Lyft recently stopped carrying UM/UIM and PIP insurance for accidents that are not the rideshare driver’s fault. That is why it is important to have uninsured motorist coverage and PIP insurance to protect yourself.

Uber is a business, and paying out settlements to passengers hurts their bottom line, even when one of their drivers was at fault. Uber has a well-staffed legal department with several sub-teams handling legal claims. While their team may offer some compensation, their main priority is to protect their bottom line.

That’s where an experienced Uber car accident attorney comes in. Uber accident attorneys understand the complexities of rideshare accidents and the tactics used to deny injury claims. By working with a skilled lawyer, you have a higher chance of receiving a positive jury verdict or settlement than if you handle the claim on your own.

How Long Does It Take To Settle a Car Accident Claim With Uber?

Settling a car accident claim with Uber could take anywhere from weeks to months or even years, depending on the complexity of the case.

Every car accident claim is unique and the timeline varies. By hiring a top-qualified Dallas accident lawyer experienced with Uber accident cases, your claim should be handled efficiently and effectively.

Can You File a Police Report Days After an Uber Accident in Dallas?

Yes, you can still file a police report days after an Uber accident in Dallas. However, you should report the accident to the police as soon as possible.

If you were unable to do so immediately, file a report as soon as possible. A police report can greatly strengthen your insurance and legal claims after a car accident in Dallas.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Dallas Uber Accident?

Knowing the deadlines for legal action following an Uber accident in Dallas is crucial. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including Uber accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident.

In other words, injured victims have a two-year time limit before they lose the ability to pursue compensation through an injury lawsuit. A qualified personal injury lawyer with experience handling Uber accident cases can help you navigate the legal process and meet all necessary deadlines.

Beyond Rideshare: Uber

Beyond its popular ridesharing service, Uber offers a range of additional offerings: Uber Eats for food delivery, Uber Health for rides to medical appointments, and Uber Connect for same-day, no-contact deliveries.

Uber’s partnerships with companies like LimeBike offer electronic bikes and scooters for short-distance transportation, while Uber Park helps users find available parking near their destination.

With Uber Freight, drivers must meet specific requirements, including buying the necessary insurance coverage and being an authorized carrier. This service allows drivers to book shipments based on their preferences. In the event of an Uber freight accident, specialized truck accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for your injuries.

FAQ: How To Hire a Lawyer for Car Accidents

How Much Does a Dallas Uber Accident Attorney Cost?

After a car crash, you may have questions about the cost of high-quality legal representation. Many personal injury attorneys, including our team at DFW Injury Lawyers, work on a contingency basis. This means we only get paid if we win your case and secure a settlement.

Typically, the attorney’s fee is a percentage of the final settlement amount, agreed upon in advance. This arrangement ensures you can access quality legal representation without upfront costs.

What Should Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas, Texas Offer?

Car accident lawyers in Dallas, TX should offer comprehensive legal services and support for victims of Uber accidents. A qualified Dallas car accident attorney has a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding rideshare accidents and the specific laws and regulations in place. A top legal team provides personalized attention and guidance throughout the entire legal process.

At DFW Injury Lawyers, we pride ourselves on offering all of these qualities and more. Don’t just take our word for it — read our testimonials from satisfied clients to see the level of service we provide.

Consult With a Compassionate Dallas Uber Accident Lawyer Now

Don’t face the aftermath of an Uber car crash alone. Seek legal guidance from skilled and empathetic Uber accident lawyers to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you may deserve. At DFW Injury Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident injury may have on your life.

Our dedicated team of Dallas Uber accident lawyers provides personalized attention and support throughout the entire legal process. Act fast and contact us today for a free legal consultation with a compassionate Dallas Uber accident lawyer.