Uber is one of the great rideshare giants of the smartphone age. After all, who doesn’t love an app that arranges convenient transportation at affordable prices? Many customers use Uber’s services when they’re facing surprise car trouble, need a quick lift, or just want a safe night out on the town. But what happens if your Uber driver has an accident?
Protect Your Claim
Filing a personal injury claim can be complicated for passengers because drivers are considered independent contractors by Uber, not employees. If your Uber driver has an accident, there are a few steps you should take to protect yourself and your personal injury claim.
The 6 steps to take as a passenger:
- Call 911
- Take screenshots of your Uber receipt
- Take pictures of the collision
- Write down witness information, if available
- Secure copies of your medical records from the accident
- Contact a personal injury attorney
Who Is Liable?
Determining a responsible party is the first step in filing a personal injury claim. This can be difficult when Uber is involved, so it’s essential to hire a personal injury attorney. Uber is regarded as a technology company, not a taxi service. Even if a driver is in an accident, Uber can legally deny responsibility because the driver is an independent contractor. Uber does offer a $1 million insurance policy to protect drivers, passengers, and third parties, but it’s not uncommon for Uber’s policy carrier to deny accident claims. Accident victims can sue Uber directly for hiring a reckless driver, but it will be a difficult case without the assistance of an experienced lawyer.
Personal injury claims are typically (and more successfully) directed to the at-fault driver of the vehicle. This could be your Uber driver or a third-party who is responsible for the accident. However, a driver’s insurance policy rarely covers the extent of a victim’s medical expenses. Quite frankly, insurance companies don’t like covering rideshare drivers because of the liability. Your attorney can help you negotiate with a driver’s personal insurance company and assist you in pursuing greater damages through Uber’s $1 million policy.
Legal Assistance
Contact the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley if you’ve been injured in an accident and want to file a personal injury claim against a negligent party or company. A successful civil lawsuit can award you damages for medical expenses and any lost wages associated with the accident. Our firm is equipped to handle even the toughest personal injury cases, so call us today!
Call our Northern California car accident attorneysat (530) 413-0245 to schedule your free consultation!