Uber Accidents and Legal Remedies: How to Pursue a Claim
Uber has changed the way we travel. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can request a ride within minutes, simplifying the way we move around. Despite its convenience, risks still exist. Crashes can still take place, and passengers could end up injured.
This article explores what kinds of injuries are most common in Uber accidents, 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 during collisions or accidents. 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: Broken bones are common in severe crashes. Fractures may demand extended treatment and rehabilitation.
Concussions and Brain Trauma: From mild concussions to severe TBIs, head injuries can vary in severity. They can lead to lasting cognitive and health challenges.
Spine Injuries: Accidents can cause serious spinal issues, including disc herniation and paralysis. These types of injuries often need extensive medical intervention.
Muscle Tears and Ligament Damage: These injuries can involve torn ligaments, strained muscles, and more. Despite being "minor," they can cause considerable pain and complications.
Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass and debris often cause lacerations. Lacerations can lead to stitches, scars, and even infection.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident?
Determining fault in Uber accident cases can be tricky. Multiple parties might share the blame for an accident. Liability can include the Uber driver, other drivers, or even third parties.
Driver Liability: The Uber driver can be responsible for any injuries if they were at fault. Common causes include distracted driving or breaking traffic laws.
Another Motorist: If another vehicle was at fault, their driver could be liable for the accident.
Uber as a Company: Although Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, the company’s insurance might apply. Uber offers up to $1 million in liability coverage during active rides.
Liability from Third Parties: Sometimes, accidents result from external factors like road hazards or uber loses uk class action lawsuit defective parts. In these cases, more than one party might share liability.
Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents
The amount of insurance Uber provides depends on when the accident happens. The coverage changes whether the driver is waiting for a ride, en route, or carrying passengers.
Driver Offline: If the driver is not using the Uber app, their personal insurance applies.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: Uber provides limited insurance coverage when a driver is available but not carrying passengers. Coverage includes up to $50,000 per individual for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver Picking Up or Transporting Passengers: While en route to pick up passengers or during the ride, Uber’s $1 million policy applies. The $1 million policy covers both liability and uninsured drivers, along with collision insurance.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Uber Accident
If an Uber accident causes significant injury, legal action may be required to get fair compensation. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.