Between 2019 and 2020 there were 101 traffic fatalities across Uber’s platform. These victims include drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians.
Unfortunately, like any motor vehicle, riding in an Uber is not without risk. Although you may know what to do if you’re involved in an accident in your vehicle, you may not be familiar with the steps to take if you’re in a ride-share accident.
Be prepared before calling your next Uber. Here’s what you need to know if you’re involved in an Uber accident.
Exchange Information and Gather Evidence
The aftermath of a crash can be chaotic. You may be in shock and unsure about what to do next.
If possible, take advantage of the time as you wait for the police. Try to collect as much evidence as possible.
Some types of evidence to collect include:
- The names of the parties involved, including the Uber driver and any other drivers involved
- Contact and insurance information of everyone involved
- Eyewitness names, including vehicle passengers
- Time and location of the accident
- Notes about how the accident happened and the actions drivers took
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and all noticeable damage
- Photos of the injuries you sustained
- Details of the setting and your surroundings such as skid marks, stop signs, etc.
The goal is to collect any evidence you may later use for your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
It’s important to get medical care as soon as possible following any type of crash. Even if your injuries don’t seem serious, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
Some injuries, including head injuries, are not immediately noticeable. If you have noticeable injuries, take pictures to document them.
Follow your doctor’s orders for any type of treatment or follow-up appointments needed. It’s important to collect all medical records and doctors’ reports. You will need them as evidence for your accident claim.
Initiate the Claims Process
Within 24 hours of your Uber accident, you should report the accident to Uber and your insurance company. Report the accident to the police while you’re at the scene.
When you file an accident report with Uber or your insurance carrier, be sure to provide details such as where and when the crash took place.
It’s a good idea to talk to an Uber accident lawyer before making a statement. An Uber lawyer has experience navigating the claims process and can help you prepare before you speak to an insurance adjuster.
Your lawyer will protect your rights and facilitate communication with the insurance company on your behalf.
Hire an Uber Accident Lawyer
Knowing what to do and understanding your rights after a ride-share accident can be confusing. You may wonder how you will pay your medical bills or who is responsible.
One of the most important things you can do following an Uber accident is to consult an Uber accident lawyer. They can evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
An accident attorney familiar with California laws will understand how to build your case. They will know what your case is worth and how to negotiate with the insurance company to get the best possible settlement for you.
Although Uber outlines the steps to take if you’re involved in an accident, don’t stop there. Working with an Uber accident attorney may improve the outcome of your case and increase the victim compensation you could receive.
Personal injury victims who have legal representation often receive 3.5 times more compensation than those who try to handle their cases alone.
Uber’s Insurance Policy
Uber drivers are required to have personal car insurance. The company provides drivers with additional insurance as well.
Period 1
When an Uber driver is working, has their app turned on, and is on “standby” waiting for a ride request, they have up to $50,000 in liability coverage for bodily injury per person and $100,000 in bodily injury per accident.
Period 2
This is when the Uber driver has received a request and is en route to pick up a passenger. During this period, Uber’s $1,000,000 insurance policy applies.
Period 3
From the time a customer steps into an Uber until they reach their destination, they are under the umbrella of Uber’s insurance. During this period, the Uber driver is covered by $1 million insurance coverage. This policy includes coverage for uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury.
Uber’s policy covers up to 1 million dollars, and that coverage extends to the passengers as well. In most cases, personal car insurance policies don’t honor ride-share or paid driving accidents.
Unless a ride-share driver has a commercial policy or a ride-sharing “endorsement,” their personal insurance will not cover ride-share accidents. That’s why Uber provides their drivers with additional coverage.
Uber’s insurance coverage only kicks in if the Uber driver or another driver is at fault and has inadequate bodily injury coverage on their policy. The 1 million dollar coverage will only apply to situations stipulated in Uber’s insurance policy.
For instance, if the Uber driver has an accident while carrying a passenger, the 1 million dollar policy covers the driver and passenger.
Filing a Claim After an Uber Accident
If you’re involved in an accident as an Uber passenger, you can receive compensation for any injuries you sustain. If another driver is at fault, you can file an accident claim with their insurance carrier. An Uber accident lawyer can help you file a claim with Uber and the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
If your Uber driver is the one at fault, you have the right to pursue compensation from the Uber driver or the company. California law requires drivers to carry the minimum coverage of $15,000 for bodily injury per person and $30,000 for bodily injury per accident.
If the driver’s personal auto insurance doesn’t cover all the damages, Uber’s 1 million dollar coverage will apply. Typically, passengers are protected regardless of which driver is at fault.
Suing for Damages
Uber drivers are considered independent contractors and are not employees of Uber. Because of this, Uber can deny liability.
As a passenger, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the Uber driver at fault. An experienced Uber accident lawyer understands how to negotiate with Uber’s insurance company to get victim compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and more.
Steps to Take Following an Uber Accident
Being involved in a car accident of any kind is scary. As a victim of an Uber accident, you may wonder about the proper steps to take following a crash.
We understand how stressful and confusing the recovery process can be. And we’re here to help.
Our experienced Uber accident lawyers can evaluate your case and help guide you throughout the legal process. Our accident attorneys are committed to fighting for our clients and getting the maximum compensation they deserve.
Contact Torrance Accident Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
