Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. By simply using the Uber app, a ride is available at your fingertips, simplifying the way we move around. As convenient as Uber is, it’s not without its risks. Collisions can occur, leading to potential passenger injuries.
In this article, typical Uber accident injuries, the process of determining fault, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Frequent Injuries from Uber Rides
An Uber accident can cause a variety of injuries, especially during collisions or accidents. Some of the most common injuries that occur include:
Whiplash: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, causing pain and limited mobility. It can take time to develop symptoms, making it hard to immediately detect.
Bone Injuries: Broken bones are common in severe crashes. They may need surgery or prolonged recovery time.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): From mild concussions to severe TBIs, head injuries can vary in severity. Head injuries can affect cognition and health for a long time.
Herniated Discs and Paralysis: Back and spine injuries are common in high-impact crashes. These injuries may require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle injuries, including sprains and tears, often occur. 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.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident?
Understanding who is liable in an Uber injury case is often complex. Various individuals and entities could be held accountable. The responsible party could be the Uber driver, another vehicle, or someone else.
Driver Liability: Uber drivers can be held liable if they were negligent or reckless. This includes speeding, texting while driving, or breaking traffic laws.
Other Drivers: If another vehicle was at fault, their driver could be liable for the accident.
Uber as a Company: 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.
Third-Party Liability: Sometimes, accidents result from external factors like road hazards uber accident lawsuit lawyer or defective parts. In these cases, more than one party might share liability.
Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents
Uber provides different levels of insurance depending on the status of the trip. Insurance differs if the driver is awaiting a request, driving to pick up someone, or in a ride.
Driver Not Using the App: If the Uber driver is not using the app, they must rely on personal coverage.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: During this phase, Uber’s coverage includes $50,000 for injury liability per person. This includes up to $50,000 per person for injuries and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver En Route or During a Ride: While en route to pick up passengers or during the ride, Uber’s $1 million policy applies. The coverage includes $1 million for liability and uninsured motorists, as well as collision coverage.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Uber Accident
When serious injuries occur, filing a lawsuit might be necessary if insurance isn’t enough. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.