Uber Accidents Attorney in Alexandria, Virginia

Ridesharing has changed how we travel, offering convenience and flexibility. However, with more Uber vehicles on the road, rideshare accidents are more or less inevitable.

At Blaszkow Legal PLLC, we understand how confusing and frustrating it can be to deal with the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of an Uber accident.

Led by Attorney Joseph Blaszkow, our team strives to help people injured in Uber-related accidents get justice and compensation. We serve clients throughout the state of Virginia, including Alexandria, Fairfax, Woodbridge, Arlington, and Manassas.

Dealing with rideshare accident insurance policies and Virginia liability laws can be stressful - let's break it down and make it simple. With decades of experience in personal injury law and a thorough understanding of Virginia's rideshare regulations, we can guide you through this process.

Whether the accident involved a negligent Uber driver or a third party, we will advocate for you and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Why You Need an Attorney After an Uber Accident

Uber accidents generally involve multiple parties and insurance policies. Determining who is liable depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident. Were they waiting for a ride request? Were they en route to pick up a passenger? Or were they already transporting someone?

Each scenario can involve different insurance coverages that require careful investigation to determine fault and applicable policy limits.

Without legal guidance, it’s easy to get lost in the web of insurance claims and Virginia laws. Insurance companies - even Uber's high-profile insurers - often focus on reducing payouts rather than giving out fair compensation for victims.

We will handle all communication, evidence gathering, and negotiations, so you can focus on healing. Our experience working with Uber accident claims gives us the knowledge to fight back against these companies and seek the best possible outcome for you.

Virginia Laws Governing Uber Accidents

Virginia law treats Uber and other rideshare vehicles differently from traditional taxis or cars. These laws govern liability and insurance coverage when accidents occur.

Here's an overview of key legal aspects:

Insurance Coverage and Uber’s Policy

Uber drivers are required to carry specific auto insurance coverage depending on their driving status at the time of an accident:

1. Offline or not logged into the Uber app: The driver’s personal insurance policy applies, as they are not considered to be operating under Uber’s platform.

2. Logged into the Uber app but without a ride request: During this phase, the driver may be covered by Uber’s contingent liability policy, which provides up to:

• $50,000 per person for bodily injury,

• $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and

• $25,000 for property damage.

3. En route to pick up a rider or during a trip: When transporting a passenger or on their way to pick someone up, Uber provides a $1 million liability insurance policy. This high coverage limit provides compensation for injuries and property damage during the most critical periods.

Filing a Claim or Lawsuit

Virginia follows an at-fault system, meaning the responsibility for covering damages lies with the person or party deemed at fault for the accident.

However, Virginia also uses pure contributory negligence, which means that if the injured party is found even one percent at fault for the accident, they generally cannot recover compensation.

This rule makes it even more important to have legal representation to advocate on your behalf and push back against unfair fault claims.

Additional Uber Regulations in Virginia

Virginia has implemented robust regulations for Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) like Uber, including:

• Mandating that Uber drivers undergo background checks.

• Requiring vehicles to meet specific safety standards.

• Drivers must carry mobile proof of their insurance while operating.

Understanding how these regulations play into your case can make the difference between a challenging claim and a successful resolution.

What to Do After an Uber Accident

If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, your safety and documentation should be the immediate focus. To help strengthen your case, follow these steps:

1. Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you feel fine, certain injuries, such as soft tissue damage or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.

2. Contact law enforcement: A police report is a critical document for proving fault and liability.

3. Document the incident: Gather information, including the Uber driver's name and contact information, license plate, insurance details, and screenshots of your ride confirmation in the app.

4. Take photos or videos: Documenting the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can strengthen your claim.

5. Speak with an attorney: Dealing with insurance claims or lawsuits without legal counsel can be challenging. Seeking guidance from an attorney guarantees that no detail is overlooked.

Common Questions After an Uber Accident

Uber accident victims often have questions about their rights and next steps. Here are the answers to a few common concerns:

Does Uber hold responsibility when their driver causes an accident?

Yes, if the driver was logged into the app during the accident. Uber’s insurance policies may apply, but liability depends on the specific circumstances of the case, including the driver’s activity at that moment.

What if a third party caused the accident?

When someone other than the Uber driver is at fault, their insurance policy often comes into play. We investigate the accident to identify all liable parties to help victims recover compensation.

Am I entitled to compensation if I was a passenger in the Uber?

Yes, as a passenger, you generally have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages due to the accident. Uber’s $1 million insurance coverage is typically available for these claims.

Can the fault rules in Virginia affect my claim?

Absolutely. Because Virginia’s contributory negligence rule bars recovery if you are found even partially at fault, it’s vital to build a strong case to counter potential disputes over fault percentages.

Virginia Uber Accident Attorney Serving Alexandria, Virginia

At Blaszkow Legal PLLC, we help those injured in vehicle accidents, including Uber-related crashes. Licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., our lead attorney brings decades of personal injury experience to the table. We stand up to insurance companies, protect your rights, and help you get compensation for your losses. If you've been in an Uber accident in Virginia, including Alexandria, Fairfax, Woodbridge, Arlington, or Manassas, call now to schedule a consultation.