Uber Accidents and Legal Remedies: How to Pursue a Claim
Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can request a ride within minutes, making transportation more convenient than ever. Despite its convenience, risks still exist. Collisions can occur, leading to potential passenger injuries.
In this article, typical Uber accident injuries, the process of determining fault, and the legal steps involved in pursuing compensation.
Frequent Injuries from Uber Rides
When riding in an Uber, a variety of injuries, especially if the driver is involved in an accident. Some of the most common injuries that occur include:
Cervical Strain: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, causing pain and limited mobility. The symptoms may take time to surface.
Fractures: High-impact accidents can lead to broken arms, legs, and ribs. Such injuries often require long recovery periods and surgery.
Concussions and Brain Trauma: Accidents may cause head trauma, ranging from mild to severe. These injuries may result in long-term cognitive issues and other serious health problems.
Herniated Discs and Paralysis: Accidents can cause serious spinal issues, including disc herniation and paralysis. They often result in long-term pain and expensive treatments.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are common in car accidents. Even though they might seem minor, they cause substantial pain.
Deep Cuts and Wounds: Sharp debris from accidents may cause deep wounds. Lacerations can lead to stitches, scars, and even infection.
Figuring Out Fault in Uber Injury Cases
Determining fault in Uber accident cases can be tricky. Several parties may be responsible for the accident. Liability can include the Uber driver, other drivers, or even third parties.
Uber’s Driver: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or driving recklessly, they might be liable. Common causes include distracted driving or breaking traffic laws.
Other Drivers: When another driver causes the accident, they may be held responsible.
The Role of Uber: Uber itself could be liable if certain conditions are met under their insurance policy. For accidents during rides, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million.
Other Third Parties: Third parties, such as government entities or manufacturers, may be liable. In these cases, more than one party might share liability.
What Uber’s Insurance Covers in Accidents
The amount of insurance Uber provides depends on when the accident happens. Coverage changes depending on if the driver is waiting for a ride request or transporting passengers.
Driver Not Using the App: When the driver is offline, their personal insurance is responsible.
Driver Online Without Passengers: Uber provides limited insurance coverage when a driver is available but not carrying passengers. Liability limits include $50,000 uber wrongful death lawsuit for injuries and $25,000 for vehicle damage.
Active Uber Ride: Once the driver is picking up or transporting a passenger, Uber offers much higher coverage. The coverage includes $1 million for liability and uninsured motorists, as well as collision coverage.
Steps in an Uber Injury Lawsuit
In severe injury cases, legal action might be the best option if insurance fails. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.