Been in an Uber Accident? A Step by Step Guide of Everything You Need to Do
Did you know that drivers complete a staggering 15 million trips in 65 countries and over 500 cities every single day?
Uber is taking over the world, and for a good reason. The ride-share platform hosts numerous, undeniable benefits. From cheap transportation to the famous, user-friendly app, Uber has undoubtedly changed the way we perceive traveling in recent years.
That said, it’s important to know what steps you need to take in the event of an Uber accident. Let’s get into it.
Reviewing Car Accident Basics
No matter the type of accident, location, or people involved, there are a few universal steps to take immediately.
First, make sure everyone is okay. Can you get out of the car safely? Is everyone responsive and able to move as well?
Then, you must call 911. Do not pause and determine the severity of the accident by yourself. You don’t need the driver or anyone else’s permission to make that call.
It’s essential to simply have emergency services on the scene to determine what needs to happen. If your driver starts protesting, take notes. Remember that you always have the legal right to reach out for support.
While waiting for 911, take your own pictures of the accident. Get as many as possible from as many different angles as possible.
If there are any witnesses, ask them to remain on the scene until emergency personnel arrives. Obtain relevant information including license plate numbers, phone numbers, and insurance carriers. Contact your own insurance company and review what happened.
Even though this may seem overwhelming, these are the standard protocol to follow in the event of an accident. Following these guidelines keeps everyone safe- and it can reduce the odds for legal issues later on.
What if It Was an Uber Accident?
Let’s say you’re the passenger. The Uber has arrived, your seatbelt is on, and you begin your journey.
BAM! The accident happens, and it probably jolts you, but you’re okay, and you’re responsive. Maybe someone rear-ended you, or maybe it was your driver that ran the red light.
Regardless, you should know the policy Uber has for collisions. All Uber drivers receive a certain level of given insurance once being approved to drive. This insurance covers general driving when transporting passengers.
The basic Uber insurance reports that it includes:
- $1 million in liability coverage per accident
- $1 million of motorist bodily injury costs
- No-fault coverage
- Comprehensive and collision coverage
- $25,000 property/$50,000 injury/$100,000 total
Uber insurance also requires that drivers maintain the appropriate insurance for their state’s ‘minimum financial responsibility.’ This clause is intended to protect both the driver and passenger.
Uber Protocol
If you are in an accident, Uber requests that riders check all parties are also safe. They also ask that you contact the police and paramedics.
Finally, they ask for a request to contact them. As a user, you can click to Trip Issues and Fare Adjustments. From there, click, “I was in an accident.”
You then have the option to fill in what happened. Check to determine that you have selected the appropriate trip. Share all relevant information.
A member from Uber’s customer service team will reach out to confirm everyone’s safety. They may also double-check your information to review it with you.
Uber Caveats to Consider
Uber coverage only kicks in if Uber’s driver or the other driver is at fault and has insufficient bodily injury coverage.
Let’s the other driver is at fault. His or her personal insurance policy kicks in first. However, if they don’t have sufficient coverage for your medical bills, Uber coverage starts to apply.
This is where expenses can start to get confusing- primarily if you have sustained serious injuries.
Car accidents are undoubtedly frightening. However, they can also be a nightmare when it comes to dealing with insurance claims. Unfortunately, while most policies outline protecting you, it’s often a battle to get the reimbursement you need.
That’s because most insurance companies are looking to pay as little as possible. It’s very easy for them to deny claims or require evidence that you are unable to provide.
Can You Sue Uber?
Most lawyers do not go after Uber directly. That’s because Uber drivers work as independent contractors instead of Uber employees. That difference makes it possible for Uber to technically deny liability or crashes.
If a passenger must file a lawsuit, the suit is towards the driver (not Uber). Unfortunately, drivers often don’t have the finances to pay expensive medical bills. That’s when Uber’s coverage is supposed to kick in, but what if it doesn’t?
What if, for example, the driver wasn’t logged into the app? Or what if the information didn’t store properly? What if Uber (or the driver) refutes your claim?
That’s why having legal representation is so important. If you or one of your other passengers was hurt, you might need to sue the driver.
Every year, medical bills bankrupt thousands of families throughout the country. Even if you do not know the full extent of your injuries, you should consult with a lawyer. He or she will be able to direct you to the appropriate advice to follow.
Final Thoughts
Getting into an accident is undoubtedly stressful no matter the circumstance. When you’re at the mercy of a ride-sharing app, it can even be more stressful.
At Trapp & Geller, we pride ourselves on representing personal injury claims. If you have recently been involved in an Uber accident, contact us today. We’re happy to assist you.