In Baltimore and beyond, Uber vehicles are involved in scary situations from violent carjackings to deadly crashes. A passenger who survives a traumatic Uber accident often faces an uphill battle when Uber refuses coverage for the full value of accident-related costs.
One study found that while Uber has a low total number of fatal accidents, non-fatal accidents are almost absent from the company’s safety statistics. Uber’s annual safety report focuses on crimes against Uber drivers and passengers, not injuries to passengers and other drivers caused by Uber drivers.
As Uber accident lawyers, Zirkin & Schmerling Law handles cases where injured people are struggling to get the compensation they deserve from Uber and Uber drivers. Below are the most important things you need to know about Uber accidents in Maryland.
What Are the Common Causes of Maryland Uber Accidents?
Here in Maryland, traffic accidents happen when Uber drivers push the limits of the law while transporting their customers. They may engage in dangerous driving behavior, putting others on the road at risk.
Speeding
Uber drivers are often in a hurry to arrive at their destinations, whether they are on the wayto picking up passengers or dropping them off. When an Uber driver exceeds the speed limit, they’re breaking the law and creating a dangerous situation for everyone on board.
Intoxicated Driving
If an Uber driver is intoxicated by illegal drugs, prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, alcohol, or other substances, this choice could lead to a severe car crash. Maryland has strong impaired driving laws which escalate with additional offenses.
Distracted Driving
Uber drivers are required to constantly use a smartphone app to schedule rides, interact with clients, and maintain communication with Uber. There are also many other distractions on the road that can lead to an accident, like music, navigational aids, traffic, and conversing with passengers.
Drowsy Driving
An Uber driver might become drowsy or fatigued after working long hours and not getting enough sleep. When drivers are drowsy, they are much more likely to cause road accidents according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Driving Errors
Did your Uber driver make an error while driving, like turning the wrong way, running a red light, or entering a restricted area? Uber drivers sometimes drive or park in off-limits areas in an attempt to get where they need to go.
Driver Inexperience
You might be surprised to learn that Uber requires no specific training or certifications for its drivers, so your driver may not have the experience it takes to safely navigate Maryland’s busy roads.
Why Do People Start Uber Accident Claims?
Under Maryland law, you have the right to hold the liable party responsible. Starting an Uber accident claim allows you to claim the compensation you need to pay for your recovery and prevent the accident from overwhelming your life.
As an injured person in Maryland, you could be eligible to recover accident compensation for losses like:
- Non-economic damages including pain, suffering, and loss of lifestyle
- Accident-related costs like medical bills and rehabilitative care
- The cost of vehicle repairs and property damage due to the accident
- The value of your previous lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Uber accident claims also put the responsibility where it belongs – on bad Uber drivers and the companies that advertise their services. Your claim demonstrates that you will not be intimidated by a big rideshare company, empowering you to stand up for your rights.
Do I Need an Uber Car Accident Attorney?
You are not required to hire an Uber car accident attorney, but it’s a smart idea for many reasons. Uber accidents are complex situations that can quickly make you feel confused and overwhelmed during an already stressful time in your life.
Hiring an Uber accident attorney allows you to focus on your recovery while your attorney handles the legal details. You work in collaboration with your lawyer to make important decisions about your case as their staff lifts the burden of responsibility for time-consuming paperwork and legal deadlines.
Connect with an attorney as soon as possible instead of trying to navigate your claim on your own. Having an attorney is a top priority when Uber is rejecting your claim, disputing the details of the accident, or arguing over the dollar amount you deserve. Your attorney is on your side to protect your interests and help you pursue full and fair compensation.
Contact a Maryland Uber Accident Injury Attorney
Here at Zirkin & Schmerling Law, our Maryland Uber accident lawyers care about helping injured people. We have compassion for your situation and pride ourselves on working closely with our clients to pursue the best possible outcome.
Contact us online or call us at (410) 753-4611 to set up an appointment with one of our experienced Uber accident lawyers today.