Uber accidents in Mississippi involve distinct legal challenges, particularly when you’re hurt as a passenger. It can be tough to determine who is at fault, understand insurance coverage, file a car accident claim, and seek fair compensation. You don’t have to figure things out by yourself. Talk to an experienced attorney from Mama Justice – MW Law Firm.
With offices throughout the South, our rideshare accident lawyers have over 40 years of combined experience helping injured people recover compensation and rebuild their lives after a serious injury. Our law firm has secured millions in verdicts and settlements, reflecting our commitment to demanding meaningful results and closure for our clients.
Our mission is simple: to stand by your side with compassion and fight like a mother for the justice you deserve. Call or contact us today for a free consultation with an Uber accident lawyer in Mississippi.
Common Causes of Uber Accidents in Mississippi
Some common causes of Uber accidents in Mississippi include:
- Distracted driving: Many Uber wrecks happen when rideshare drivers look at their phone for directions or incoming ride requests instead of keeping their eyes on the road.
- Speeding: Rushing to drop off or pick up a fare may cause an Uber driver to exceed speed limits, reducing their reaction times and increasing the chances of severe injuries in a crash.
- Fatigue: Uber drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel or drive late at night may struggle with drowsiness, which can slow their reflexes and impair their awareness of their surroundings.
- Unsafe lane changes: Switching lanes erratically or without checking blind spots can lead to serious car accidents, especially in congested areas.
- Following too closely: Tailgating is a negligent action that gives rideshare drivers little space to react if the car ahead of them stops suddenly.
- Poor weather: Heavy rain and slick roads increase the likelihood of skidding, hydroplaning, or losing control, particularly if Uber drivers don’t adjust their speeds in poor weather.
- Failure to yield: Rideshare drivers who overlook right-of-way rules at intersections or when merging can easily collide with nearby cars.
- Impaired driving: Uber drivers under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other medications may experience dulled reflexes, impaired judgment, and a greater likelihood of falling asleep behind the wheel.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Worn tires, faulty brakes, or neglected repairs increase the risk of mechanical failures during a trip that can cause collisions.
Passenger Rights After an Uber Accident
As a passenger hurt in an Uber accident, you have several rights, including:
- Right to seek compensation: Mississippi law allows accident victi–ms to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if someone else’s negligence causes a wreck. You could file a claim through Uber’s insurance coverage, the Uber driver’s policy, or another liable party’s insurance, depending on the circumstances. A Mississippi car accident lawyer can help you determine liability and file personal injury claims for you.
- Right to legal counsel: While hiring an attorney is not required to file an Uber accident claim in Mississippi, a lawyer can help identify all potential sources of compensation and provide solid advocacy while you recover.
- Right to transparency during the claims process: The insurance company has an obligation to handle your rideshare accident claim responsibly and offer clear explanations for delays and denials.
- Right to negotiate a settlement: You do not have to accept the first settlement an insurance company offers. Generally, the initial offer is a lowball settlement that falls short of what you actually deserve. An experienced attorney can help calculate an estimated value for your case so you don’t settle too soon.
- Right to file a car accident lawsuit: If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, you can take them to court to pursue a better result.
What to Do After an Uber Accident
Take these steps to protect your rights if you sustain injuries in an Uber accident in Mississippi:
- Call 911 immediately to report the car wreck.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel unhurt.
- Take photos of the accident scene if you can, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
- Collect information from all drivers involved, including names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information.
- Save details about your Uber driver, such as their name, license plate number, and a screenshot of your trip in the app.
- Report the crash through the Uber app to create an official record with the rideshare company. However, avoid discussing who’s responsible for the accident or your injuries.
- Gather contact information from anyone who might have seen the accident. Witness statements may help your case by providing a neutral perspective on the Uber driver’s actions and other crash details.
- Do not give any recorded statements to insurance adjusters without speaking to a lawyer. This prevents you from unintentionally harming your personal injury case.
- Contact a Mississippi Uber accident attorney to discuss your legal options and get help with the insurance claims process.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident in Mississippi?
Determining liability in an Uber accident claim can be tricky. Depending on the facts of the case, one or several parties could be liable, including:
- Uber
- Uber driver
- Other drivers
- Government entity
- Automakers
- Repair shops
Understanding Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Uber bears financial responsibility for a car crash only under specific conditions. Since Uber drivers are independent contractors, Uber’s insurance coverage only applies when:
- The driver is logged into the app but has no passenger yet: Uber provides limited commercial liability coverage, which only takes effect when the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage limits are exhausted.
- The driver is actively transporting a passenger: Uber’s primary insurance coverage applies.
Uber does not cover accidents when the driver is not logged into the app.
The Mama Justice Difference: How Our Mississippi Uber Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Mama Justice, we put people first. Our team understands how overwhelming the aftermath of an Uber accident can feel. We’re here to guide you through every stage of the legal process with care and determination. Our attorneys bring local knowledge and proven trial experience to each case.
People choose Mama Justice because we offer more than courtroom representation. We provide tailored strategies for everyone we serve, along with medical referrals and other support services to help with your recovery. Our compassionate approach means you always have a safe place to share concerns and get answers.
We have earned over 700 five-star Google reviews and remain the fastest-growing, female-owned law firm in the United States. When you work with Mama Justice, you can count on a dedicated team that treats you with respect and fights for the best possible outcome. We don’t charge any upfront fees, so call us now or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
