Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can get a ride almost anywhere, making it incredibly convenient. Despite its convenience, risks still exist. Collisions can occur, and when they do, passengers may suffer injuries.
In this article, typical Uber accident injuries, how to determine liability, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Typical Injuries in Uber Accidents
An Uber accident can cause many different types of injuries, especially if the driver is involved in an accident. Some of the most common injuries that occur include:
Neck Injuries: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, resulting in pain and stiffness. Symptoms can be delayed, making it harder to recognize early on.
Broken Bones: Accidents can easily cause fractures, especially in limbs. Such injuries often require long recovery periods and surgery.
Concussions and Brain Trauma: Accidents may cause head trauma, ranging from mild to severe. These injuries may result in long-term cognitive issues and other serious health problems.
Spine Injuries: A severe impact may cause spinal cord damage, herniated discs, or even paralysis. They often result in long-term pain and expensive treatments.
Strains and Sprains: Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are common in car accidents. Even though they might seem minor, they cause substantial pain.
Deep Cuts and Wounds: Sharp debris from accidents may cause deep wounds. Such cuts may need immediate medical attention, including surgery.
Figuring Out Fault in Uber Injury Cases
Liability in Uber-related accidents can be complicated. Multiple parties might share the blame for an accident. The responsible party could be the Uber driver, another vehicle, or someone else.
Uber’s Driver: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or driving recklessly, they might be liable. Examples include speeding, DUI, or violating traffic rules.
A Different Driver: If another motorist causes the crash, they could bear the blame.
The Role of Uber: Uber may be liable in certain situations through its insurance policies. 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 takes billionth lawsuit or defective parts. In such cases, lawsuits may involve multiple parties to determine responsibility.
Uber’s Insurance Policy for Riders
Uber provides different levels of insurance depending on the status of the trip. The coverage changes whether the driver is waiting for a ride, en route, or carrying 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.
Active Uber Ride: While en route to pick up passengers or during the ride, Uber’s $1 million policy applies. 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. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.