Portsmouth Uber Accident Lawyer

Uber provides a convenient form of transportation for Portsmouth, VA, residents. However, the ease of signing up as an Uber driver means virtually anyone can take on the role. Unfortunately, this can lead to questions about liability when an accident happens. That’s why hiring a qualified Portsmouth rideshare accident lawyer is crucial to recovering fair compensation.

I’m Ed Atkinson, and as an experienced Portsmouth Uber accident lawyer, I understand the complexities and challenges surrounding cases involving rideshare drivers. If you have been injured in an Uber accident in Portsmouth, I am here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the settlement you deserve.

Call me today to learn about your legal options during a free, no-obligation consultation with our Portsmouth car accident lawyer.

Who Is to Blame for an Accident Caused by an Uber Driver?

In a standard car accident, you could file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver, and your biggest challenge might be proving negligence. Yet things get more complicated when you get into an accident with an Uber driver.

For example, most Uber drivers are independent contractors, not employees. These motorists are generally held accountable for their actions while operating their personal vehicles.

At the same time, Uber has specific insurance policies that come into play when their drivers are logged into the app, are en route to pick up a passenger, or are carrying a passenger. As a result, the coverage level can vary depending on the exact circumstance when the accident occurred.

When You Are a Passenger in an Uber

What does this mean for you as an Uber passenger? Fortunately, Uber protects drivers carrying passengers and takes on most financial responsibility when the driver causes an accident.

That said, if your Uber driver gets into an accident with another vehicle, they are not necessarily at fault. If evidence suggests another motorist shares responsibility for the accident, that person should be named in your civil lawsuit if you pursue legal action.

According to the Code of Virginia § 8.01-443, accident victims may use the legal doctrine of “joint and several liability” against their Uber driver and the other involved motorist. 

You can recover compensation from both if you or your lawyer demonstrate that both parties shared fault in the collision. As your rideshare accident lawyer, I’ll gather all available evidence to strengthen your case and maximize your settlement or court award.

When You Are the Driver of Another Vehicle

If a rideshare vehicle hits your car, it is critical to determine whether or not the driver was working at the time of the crash. Uber will likely provide additional liability coverage and access to legal counsel to active Uber drivers. Drivers are considered active when they have passengers in their vehicles or are on their way to pick up passengers.

Conversely, Uber drivers who are not actively working for the company or not using the app at the time of an accident are not eligible for this protection.

In other words, you can hold Uber accountable for the negligent actions of an on-duty driver. However, if the driver wasn’t working during the accident, your lawyer should file a claim against them. In this situation, the driver’s personal liability insurance should compensate you for your losses.

When to Contact a Lawyer About Your Uber Accident

Whether you were a passenger in an Uber or were driving another vehicle when an Uber hit you, you may be able to recover compensation for the losses you sustained due to the accident. 

As your Portsmouth personal injury lawyer, I will collect evidence of the negligent behavior that led to the crash and identify the liable party while you relax and heal from your injuries. In addition, hiring me can prevent insurance companies from wasting your time with inadequate settlement offers.

While it is possible to handle your claim yourself, having a lawyer fight for you increases your chances of receiving full compensation for your injuries. I spent years working for insurance companies defending negligent drivers, and I know how these companies operate. The at-fault party’s insurance company will likely offer more once they realize you have retained a lawyer. 

All it takes is one phone call to Atkinson Law to get started. I will handle all aspects of your insurance claim, and if it becomes necessary to file a personal injury lawsuit, I will submit it to the appropriate civil court and fight for justice there.

Time Limit for Taking Legal Action After an Accident

As specified by the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, you have two years to investigate your losses, organize your evidence, and file a complaint with a civil court. If you do not file your claim by the deadline, you risk losing your right to pursue legal action against the party responsible for your losses.

Getting in touch with a personal injury lawyer like me as soon as possible after a collision will help ensure you meet all applicable deadlines in your case. 

Contact Atkinson Law for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation

Atkinson Law is a different kind of law firm that doesn’t treat your case like it’s on an assembly line. Instead, we are a small business that works hard to earn your patronage, providing best-in-class service customized to your needs.

As your personal injury lawyer, I will provide sound legal advice, stand by your side through the claims process, fight for a fair settlement, and represent you in court if your case goes to trial. I am here to help you reclaim your life and hold the at-fault parties responsible for all you’ve endured.

In addition, I handle cases on a contingency-fee basis and will gladly travel to meet you for your free case evaluation. So please call me or fill out the online contact form to get started.