You probably already know about filing a personal injury claim when involved in a car accident. But what if you were injured while using Uber or Lyft as a passenger or driver? Or what if an Uber driver hits you?

    uber-car-accident

    Firstly, Rideshare (such as Uber and Lyft) accident settlements are usually higher than regular car accident compensations. But before filing any claim, there are things you must know, depending on whether you are the driver or passenger.

    Let’s dissect them.

    What To Do When Involved In An Uber Accident

    “My Uber was in an accident.” If this is you, whether or not you think you sustained injuries, here’s what to do:

    1. Report The Accident

    The first thing to do when involved in an Uber accident is to report it to the police so that Uber’s generous compensation will apply. If you do not report it immediately, your case may weaken. Although a police report isn’t admissible in court, ensure you have a copy of it.

    2. Gather Evidence

    After reporting the rideshare incident, take photos of the damage right on the spot. Also, write down the facts of the occurrence as you know it. This is your evidence, so you want to have your story intact before the police or anyone else comes to tamper with the scene. The evidence is what dictates who’s liable and to what extent.

    3. Collect Contact Details Of People Involved

    You want to also write down the names and contact details of other people involved in the accident, including witnesses. Ensure to collect the other driver’s insurance details as well.

    4. Receive Treatment

    Seeking immediate medical treatment is vital to the success of your personal injury claim. If you fail to do so, the insurance company may claim that your injuries or symptoms came long after the accident, ruining your claim.

    5. Don’t Accept Any Immediate Settlement Offer

    The Uber insurance company may try to persuade you to accept an amount  (which is likely to be minimal) to prevent escalating the issue. Know that they are only trying to take advantage of the situation (your emotional vulnerability when severely injured in an accident). Refuse the offer.

    6. Contact A Rideshare Attorney

    It’s in your best interest to contact a lawyer after an Uber accident, as they’ll know the best steps to take. Not just any lawyer but one experienced in rideshare accident claims. Rideshare accident attorneys will be able to negotiate the maximum settlement for you. If the need arises, such as a refusal from the insurance company, your attorney can file an Uber car accident claim on your behalf and represent you.

    Settlement Amounts For Uber Accidents

    Liability in Rideshare accidents depends on many conditions, as outlined below:

    • If an Uber driver causes an accident while waiting for a ride request, Uber will cover up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage.
    • If an Uber driver causes an accident while they have a passenger in the car or are on their way to pick up a passenger, Uber will cover up to $1,000,000 and provide other benefits.
    • If the $1,000,000 limit applies, but another driver causes the accident, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver. However, the at-fault driver may only have minimum insurance coverage, which may be as little as $25,000 per person for bodily injury in some states.

    What Happens If You Get Into An Accident As An Uber Driver?

    Uber covers car accidents for their drivers. Suppose you incur injuries from an accident as an Uber driver. In that case, you can cover your injuries, car damage, and any injured third-party liability using your insurance and that of Uber.

    The amount of Uber insurance benefits you receive will depend on whether you were carrying a passenger, on your way to pick one, or you were awaiting a ride request with your Uber app on. In summary, you must be on duty for Uber’s insurance coverage to apply.

    Do You Need Standard Auto Insurance As An Uber Driver?

    Yes, Uber drivers need standard auto insurance coverage in addition to Uber supplemental coverage. Uber will cover for your injuries and damage to your car (even up to the full value of the car) as long as you comply with the policy agreement and do the right thing after the accident.

    Can You Sue Uber If You Get Into An Uber Accident?

    You generally cannot sue Uber directly, but you can sue Uber’s insurance company if the accident is the Uber driver’s fault. But there are rare occasions when you can sue Uber, such as when they negligently hired an unlearned driver.

    The Bottom Line

    Uber’s insurance may cover your injuries if you are the driver or passenger in an Uber accident. Just ensure you report the accident immediately and document the scene appropriately. To ensure you get the maximum settlement, seek assistance from a lawyer knowledgeable in Uber accident claims.

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