For most Americans, it’s hard not to think about a world without Uber. Since 2009, Uber usage has been on the rise, so much so that it has become a staple in American transportation. In fact, in many cities across the country, Uber has beat out the taxi business because of its convenience and low cost. Every month, Uber fulfills approximately 40 million rides. According to Forbes, by 2016, Uber had completed upwards of 2 billion rides, a number that continues to rise every day. Although most rides may run smoothly and safely, with the sheer quantity of rides, accidents are bound to happen. It is almost inevitable. When you enter an Uber, you’re putting your life in the driver’s hands. When something goes wrong, like a major accident, it is the driver’s responsibility if you suffer any injuries. If you or someone you know has been a victim of an Uber accident, then it may be in your best interest to reach out to Cohen & Cohen, an experienced law firm serving Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and the surrounding areas which specializes in Uber accident cases like these.
According to Uber themselves, they legally declare their commitment to your safety, above all. While many of your Uber drivers likely are excellent drivers, there is also the chance you get someone who is not careful driver. If you notice your Uber driver speeding, texting while driving, not using their phone on a phone mount, or driving under the influence of alcohol or other drug substances, you can be sure they are not upholding their legal duty to keep you as a rider safe. They be also be breaking a few laws in the process too.
Uber accidents, like any other car accident, can happen for a variety of reasons. Car crashes in the United States are the fourth leading cause of death. Most Americans know that accidents are not to be taken lightly. There are so many different factors that go into safety on the road, and while some you can control, others you cannot. Some of the most common reasons for automobile accidents, which unfortunately includes Uber include (but are not limited to):
- Extreme weather (such as heavy snow and ice, heavy rain, heavy wind, heavy hail, etc.)
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and other substances
- Reckless driving
- Inexperienced driving
- Night driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Texting and driving
This is just a small list of the many ways that car and Uber accidents can occur. After all, Uber drivers are people too. They are just as prone to making driving errors as everybody else. However, unlike everyone else, they have a higher responsibility to ensure your safety. When you pay to ride in an Uber, you are also paying for the guarantee of a safe driver.
An Uber accident can cause serious injuries that are both traumatic and costly. If you are suffering from an injuring that you received as a result of an Uber accident, you should not have to worry about piling legal paperwork and looming medical bills. Injuries can be a financial burden, especially when you have to pay for doctor’s visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and even take time off work.
If you have suffered from an Uber accident, do not hesitate to reach out to Cohen & Cohen and we will be happy to set you up with one of the expert Uber accident lawyers on our team.