Uber Accidents and Legal Remedies: How to Pursue a Claim
Uber Accidents and Legal Remedies: How to Pursue a Claim
Blog Article
Uber has changed the way we travel. With a simple tap on your smartphone, a ride is available at your fingertips, making transportation more convenient than ever. As convenient as Uber is, it’s not without its risks. Accidents can happen, leading to potential passenger injuries.
This article explores what kinds of injuries are most common in Uber accidents, the process of determining fault, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Frequent Injuries from Uber Rides
Passengers in an Uber may suffer many different types of injuries, particularly when the vehicle is in an accident. Among the most common injuries are:
Neck Injuries: 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.
Broken Bones: Broken bones are common in severe crashes. Such injuries often require long recovery periods and surgery.
Head and Brain Injuries: Brain injuries, including concussions, are often serious after crashes. Head injuries can affect cognition and health for a long time.
Herniated Discs and Paralysis: Accidents can cause serious spinal issues, including disc herniation and paralysis. They often result in long-term pain and expensive treatments.
Muscle Tears and Ligament Damage: Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are common in car accidents. Despite being "minor," they can cause considerable pain and complications.
Cuts and Lacerations: Shattered glass or other debris from an accident may lead to severe cuts. Such cuts may need immediate medical attention, including surgery.
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: The Uber driver can be responsible for any injuries if they were at fault. This includes speeding, texting while driving, or breaking traffic laws.
Other Drivers: When another driver causes the accident, they may be held responsible.
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 defective parts. Liability could extend beyond drivers, requiring investigation into other causes.
Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents
Uber’s insurance coverage varies depending on the stage of the ride. The coverage changes whether the driver is waiting for a ride, en route, or carrying passengers.
Driver Not Using the App: If the driver is not using the Uber app, their personal insurance applies.
Driver Online Without Passengers: While waiting for uber accident claims settlement a ride request, Uber’s insurance offers minimal coverage. Liability limits include $50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for vehicle damage.
Driver Picking Up or Transporting Passengers: Once the driver is picking up or transporting a passenger, Uber offers much higher coverage. The coverage includes $1 million for liability and uninsured motorists, as well as collision coverage.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Uber Accident
If an Uber accident causes significant injury, legal action may be required to get fair compensation. A lawsuit can provide compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
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