Accidents involving commercial trucks and rideshare vehicles like Uber often result in serious injuries and complicated legal issues. Unlike when an individual in their private car collides with another individual in their private vehicle, when an Uber and commercial truck collide, determining fault and damages can be tricky.
Below, our friends at Culpepper Law Group discuss what happens when trucks and Uber cars crash, and how those affected can protect their rights.
Common Causes Of Truck And Uber Collisions
Collisions between trucks and Uber vehicles usually happen because of several factors.
Common causes include:
- Due to their size and weight, large trucks need longer stopping distances and have large blind spots.
- Uber drivers may be distracted by navigating unfamiliar routes or managing passengers.
- Driver fatigue or inattention, especially among truck drivers
- Speeding or reckless driving by either driver
- Ignoring traffic signals or signs
- Distracted driving, such as phone use or talking to passengers
- Poor road or weather conditions
- Mechanical problems with either vehicle
The combination of trucking regulations and rideshare policies often complicates these cases.
Liability And Insurance Issues
Assigning fault in a truck and Uber crash needs careful investigation. Trucks are usually insured by companies with high policy limits, while Uber drivers might be covered by personal insurance and the rideshare company’s policies.
Determining liability involves looking at:
- Driving records and actions of both drivers
- Maintenance and inspection records for the truck
- Uber’s insurance coverage during the ride
- Possible third-party negligence like bad road conditions
Due to multiple layers of insurance and responsibility, victims may benefit from consulting an Uber accident lawyer to understand their options.
Injuries From Truck And Uber Crashes
Because trucks are much larger, Uber drivers and passengers are more vulnerable in these accidents. Injuries can be severe, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- These injuries often require long-term care and cause serious physical and financial challenges.
What To Do After A Crash
If you are involved in a truck and Uber accident, taking certain steps right away can impact your recovery and legal case:
- Call 911 and get medical help immediately
- Take photos of the scene and collect witness info
- Obtain the police report
- Notify your insurance company but avoid recorded statements without legal advice
- Contact a truck accident lawyer to discuss your case
- Quick legal help can protect evidence and strengthen your claim.
Compensation And Claims
People hurt in truck and Uber collisions may qualify for compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Because these cases often involve several insurance companies, legal guidance is important.
A good personal injury attorney can provide you with legal guidance and advice, and they will work hard to get you a fair settlement, or if needed, fight for you in court.
Truck and Uber accidents can change lives in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured in one, seek advice from a trusted professional to learn about your rights and next steps.