What Happens If You Are In an Accident In an Uber?

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Written by Auto Accident Team

Last Updated: September 25, 2024

Car ccidents can happen anytime, anywhere, and in any form of transportation. With the increasing popularity of ride-sharing services like Uber, knowing what to do if you are involved in an Uber accident is important. While no one ever plans on being involved in an auto accident, being knowledgeable about the steps to take afterwards can make a big difference.

What Should You Do Immediately After an Uber Accident?

If you find yourself involved in an Uber accident, your immediate actions can significantly impact your safety and the outcome of any potential claims. Here is what you should do right away:

  1. Check for injuries: First and foremost, assess yourself and others for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance.
  2. Report the accident: Notify the Uber driver to ensure they report the accident through the Uber app. It is also crucial to inform local law enforcement to obtain an official accident report.
  3. Gather information: If possible, collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved, including witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles.
  4. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Visiting a healthcare professional can provide a medical record of any injuries related to the accident.
  5. Document Your Recovery: Keep a detailed record of your injuries, treatments, and recovery progress. This documentation can support your claim and help quantify the impact of your accident.
  6. Contact the Auto Accident Team: The Auto Accident Team will connect you with an experienced Uber accident lawyer who can provide invaluable advice and guide you through the process of filing a claim. 

Protecting your rights starts immediately after the accident occurs. It is essential to take proactive steps in these crucial first moments after the accident to safeguard yourself and your future claim.

How Does Uber’s Insurance Coverage Work?

Understanding Uber’s insurance coverage is crucial in the event of an Uber accident. Before accepting a ride request, the driver’s personal auto insurance covers any incidents. This is when the app is being used for personal purposes, not business.

Once a ride request is accepted, Uber’s insurance coverage kicks in. This encompasses the period the driver is en route to pick up a rider and during the trip with the rider. 

The coverage includes third-party liability of up to $2 million, which is substantial for covering damages to other parties involved in an accident. Should there be any physical damage to the vehicle, contingent coverage up to the actual cash value of the car is provided, subject to a $2,500 deductible. 

Additionally, Uber provides uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage to protect against incidents where the other party lacks sufficient insurance.

In situations where a driver’s personal insurance does not cover an accident, Uber’s policy offers contingent coverage. This includes liability for injuries and property damage to others, with limits set at $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 total per accident for bodily injuries, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. This tiered coverage framework ensures both drivers and passengers have protection in various scenarios.

What Compensation Might You Be Entitled To?

The compensation you might be entitled to after an Uber accident can potentially include:

  • Medical expenses: Costs for hospital visits, treatments, and any ongoing medical care resulting from the accident.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for the time you were unable to work due to injuries sustained in the accident.
  • Pain and suffering: This accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered as a result of the accident.

Each case is unique, and the specific compensation you may be entitled to can vary. 

If you suffered injuries in an Uber accident, a car accident lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support. The Auto Accident Team works with skilled attorneys who can assist you in navigating the complex legal processes. These local and licensed attorneys can assist with medical treatment options and help you pursue a claim to get the compensation you deserve.

Consulting with a legal professional is crucial to understanding and pursuing the compensation available to you.

Can Uber Be Held Responsible For My Injuries and Other Losses?

While Uber reports a low incident rate of only 0.0002% of all trips between 2019 and 2020 having a safety incident, accidents still occur. Uber and other rideshare companies can only be held accountable for accidents under certain circumstances, including the following:

  • The driver is active on the app and waiting to pick up a passenger
  • The driver is en route to pick up a passenger
  • The driver is actively transporting a passenger

In other words, if you are a passenger in an Uber, the company will likely be liable for your damages. However, if you were involved in an accident with an Uber driver who was not actively using their app, the company would not bear responsibility. 

Despite this, you may have grounds to file a legal claim against the driver’s insurance. Your attorney can review the facts of your case and determine the best path forward to recover compensation for your losses. 

Get the Help You Need After an Uber Accident With the Auto Accident Team

Navigating the aftermath of an Uber accident can be overwhelming. The Auto Accident Team connects you with knowledgeable attorneys that can clarify your legal options and advocate for your best interests. The law firms are focused on relieving your burden of legal complexities, so you can concentrate on your recovery. 

Do not navigate this challenging time alone. By reaching out to the Auto Accident Team, you gain access to a group of attorneys who are committed to consistent and reliable communication. They are dedicated to guiding you through every step of your Uber accident claims process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies to litigating your case in court if necessary. Contact us today at (877) 236-2391 or through our contact form.

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