Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. With just a tap on your phone, you can request a ride within minutes, making it incredibly convenient. However, with convenience comes risks. Accidents can happen, and when they do, passengers may suffer injuries.
We will cover typical Uber accident injuries, who may be liable for damages, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Typical Injuries in Uber Accidents
Passengers in an Uber may suffer a wide range of injuries, especially during collisions or accidents. Among the most common injuries are:
Whiplash: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, resulting in pain and stiffness. Symptoms can be delayed, making it harder to recognize early on.
Bone Injuries: High-impact accidents can lead to broken arms, legs, and ribs. Fractures may demand extended treatment and rehabilitation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Brain injuries, including concussions, are often serious after crashes. Head injuries can affect cognition and health for a long time.
Herniated Discs and Paralysis: A severe impact may cause spinal cord damage, herniated discs, or even paralysis. These types of injuries often need extensive medical intervention.
Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries can involve torn ligaments, strained muscles, and more. Even though they might seem minor, they cause substantial pain.
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.
Determining Liability in Uber Injury Cases
Liability in Uber-related accidents can be complicated. Several parties may be responsible for the accident. Liability could fall on the Uber driver, other motorists, or other third parties.
Driver Liability: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or driving recklessly, they might be liable. This includes speeding, texting while driving, or breaking traffic laws.
Other Drivers: If another motorist causes the crash, they could bear the blame.
The Role of Uber: Although Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, the company’s insurance might apply. For accidents during rides, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million.
Liability from Third Parties: Third parties, such as government entities or manufacturers, may be liable. In such cases, lawsuits may involve multiple parties to determine responsibility.
What Uber’s Insurance Covers in Accidents
The amount of insurance Uber provides depends on when the accident happens. Coverage changes depending on if the driver is waiting for a ride request uber sued by drivers or transporting passengers.
Driver Not Using the App: When the driver is offline, their personal insurance is responsible.
Driver Available for Rides: During this phase, Uber’s coverage includes $50,000 for injury liability per person. Coverage includes up to $50,000 per individual for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver En Route or During a Ride: When an Uber driver is on a trip, the company’s insurance provides up to $1 million in coverage. The $1 million policy covers both liability and uninsured drivers, along with collision insurance.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Uber Accident
When serious injuries occur, filing a lawsuit might be necessary if insurance isn’t enough. The legal process can help victims recover lost wages, medical expenses, and damages.