If you decide to take an Uber, there is a good chance you are doing so because it is safer than driving when intoxicated or taking a potentially dangerous public transportation option. The bad news is that even Ubers are not going to protect you from all the dangers of the road. Keep reading to find out what to do if you are injured in an Uber and remember to contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation with a personal injury attorney.
If Anyone Other Than Your Uber Driver at Fault
If you are involved in a car accident while in an Uber and someone else is at fault other than your Uber driver, then the at-fault party will be liable for damages. You would sue them and/or their insurance company just as you would for any other type of car accident. This would begin by gathering as much information as possible about the accident, documenting what happened, and getting appropriate medical attention.
Once you are safe and have the basic information needed you would contact a personal injury attorney for a free legal consultation. Depending on your injuries and the specifics of the accident, it may make sense to take the settlement offered by the insurance company but it may also be best to take the case to court. Alternatively, your attorney may negotiate aggressively to get you the best possible outcome for your case. It is always worth a call to find out what your best options are.
If Your Uber Driver is at Fault
In most cases, the Uber car insurance policy would cover your accident. It offers up to $1 million in coverage. While the driver should have their own personal insurance coverage, it is likely that it does not cover them when they are working. Since driving an Uber is working (or, as the insurance company would refer to it, “using the vehicle for commercial purposes) then personal policies do not cover.
There are exceptions. For example, if you arranged a ride with an Uber driver outside of the app then their personal policy would be the one that covered you. The Uber policy is only in effect when the driver is working via the app.
If More Than One Party is at Fault
It is common that both drivers will be partially at fault. In this case, they will each be financially responsible for the percentage of their fault. For example, if your Uber driver was speeding they may be considered 25% at fault while the other driver ran a red light and is therefore considered 75% at fault. In that case, your Uber driver’s policy would cover 25% of your damages while the other driver’s policy would cover 75% of your damages.
If you have additional questions, or you simply want a consultation with an experienced attorney, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
