Uber has opened up a world of possibilities when it comes to getting around, but if you’re injured in an Uber accident, it can add an additional layer of difficulty to an already complex legal process. If this is the challenging position you find yourself in, it’s time to consult with an experienced Philadelphia Uber accident attorney.
If You’re Injured as an Uber Passenger
If you’re injured in an Uber accident – or an accident that was caused by an Uber driver’s negligence – and you’re a passenger in the Uber, you can count on Uber’s comprehensive coverage being in play. This means that you’ll file your claim with Uber’s insurance provider and proceed as you would with any other car accident claim. While Uber’s coverage is ample, the insurance company itself is interested in its own profits, which means it will do what it can to keep your settlement low.
If you’re in the Other Vehicle
If you’re in another vehicle and are injured due to an Uber driver’s negligence, determining which insurance policy to file a claim with depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- If Uber drivers have a passenger or are on the way to pick up a passenger, Uber’s company coverage is at work.
- If the Uber driver is on the app but is waiting to be assigned a passenger, their own coverage, which they are required to carry, is triggered. If your claim exceeds the limits of the driver’s personal policy, Uber’s coverage comes back into play.
- If the Uber driver is no longer on the app – even if they just got off it – your claim will proceed through the driver’s personal policy just like it would after any other car accident.
Considerations
Uber drivers have a lot on their plate, and while they transport people from place to place for pay, they’re not professional drivers and aren’t required to have any additional experience or training the way professional drivers are. Often, factors like the following play a role in Uber accidents:
- Uber drivers are required to interact with the Uber app behind the wheel, which can be a dangerous distraction.
- Uber drivers often toggle back and forth between rideshare apps, and some spend more hours behind the wheel than is safe.
- Uber drivers often have to navigate through areas they’re not familiar with – and must spot locations or passengers waiting for them at the same time.