Rideshare services like Uber offer convenience, but accidents still happen. When poor vehicle maintenance contributes to an accident, it adds another layer of responsibility to your claim. Our Chattanooga, TN Uber accident lawyer helps victims of Uber accidents caused by vehicle issues seek fair compensation for their losses. If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident and suspect poor maintenance played a role, it’s important to take steps to protect your rights and gather the necessary information to support your claim.
Common Vehicle Maintenance Issues That Lead To Accidents
There are several maintenance problems that can result in serious accidents. These include worn-out brakes, malfunctioning lights, defective steering mechanisms, and tire issues like bald tires or uneven wear. Each of these problems can compromise safety and increase the risk of a crash. If an Uber vehicle has not been properly maintained, it puts the driver, passengers, and others on the road at risk.
For example, if the brakes fail because they haven’t been replaced or serviced, stopping in time becomes difficult, potentially leading to a rear-end collision. Likewise, poor tire maintenance can result in blowouts or loss of control, which are often catastrophic. In these cases, a lack of proper vehicle upkeep directly impacts the safety of everyone involved.
Determining Liability For An Accident Caused By Poor Maintenance
When an accident occurs due to poor vehicle maintenance, determining responsibility is a key part of the claim. The liability may not only fall on the Uber driver but also on other parties, such as the rideshare company, vehicle owners, or mechanics. Uber drivers are usually responsible for maintaining their vehicles according to company guidelines. However, if the rideshare company owns the vehicle or if a mechanic performed inadequate work, these entities could also be held accountable.
Gathering evidence is crucial in identifying who is responsible for the accident. This might include maintenance records, inspection reports, or testimony from mechanics who worked on the vehicle. In addition, statements from eyewitnesses and data from dashcams or GPS tracking can provide helpful insights into the condition of the vehicle before the accident.
The Importance Of Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
If you’re injured in an Uber accident caused by poor vehicle maintenance, getting medical attention as soon as possible is critical. Some injuries, like whiplash or fractures, may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time. Medical documentation creates a clear record of your injuries and treatments, which is essential for your claim. Keeping track of your appointments, treatments, and any ongoing medical care helps demonstrate the full impact of the accident on your life.
Pursuing Compensation For Your Losses
After an Uber accident, compensation may cover a wide range of damages. This includes medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases where poor vehicle maintenance is a contributing factor, you may also seek compensation for long-term medical care, ongoing treatments, or reduced earning capacity.
At Dennis & Winningham Law, we help clients gather all necessary documentation and work with professionals who can accurately assess the extent of your damages. Whether it’s working with medical providers, mechanics, or insurance companies, our goal is to build a strong case that fully represents your losses. If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident and believe poor vehicle maintenance contributed to the crash, don’t wait to take action. When you are ready, get in touch with our office for a consultation.