Uber's services have revolutionized modern travel. By simply using the Uber app, you can request a ride within minutes, making it incredibly convenient. Despite its convenience, risks still exist. Accidents can happen, and when they do, passengers may suffer injuries.
In this article, what kinds of injuries are most common in Uber accidents, how to determine liability, and the legal steps involved in pursuing compensation.
Frequent Injuries from Uber Rides
Passengers in an Uber may suffer many different types of injuries, particularly when the vehicle is in an accident. Some frequent injuries include:
Cervical Strain: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, which can lead to significant discomfort. Symptoms can be delayed, making it harder to recognize early on.
Fractures: High-impact accidents can lead to broken arms, legs, and ribs. Such injuries often require long recovery periods and surgery.
Head and Brain Injuries: 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: Accidents can cause serious spinal issues, including disc herniation and paralysis. They often result in long-term pain and expensive treatments.
Strains and Sprains: These injuries can involve torn ligaments, strained muscles, and more. Despite being "minor," they can cause considerable pain and complications.
Deep Cuts and Wounds: Shattered glass or other debris from an accident may lead to severe cuts. Lacerations can lead to stitches, scars, and even infection.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident?
Understanding who is liable in an Uber injury case is often complex. Several parties may be responsible for the accident. The responsible party could be the Uber driver, another vehicle, or someone else.
Driver Liability: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or driving recklessly, they might be liable. Common causes include distracted driving or breaking traffic laws.
A Different Driver: When another driver causes the accident, they may be held responsible.
Uber’s Liability: Uber may be liable in certain situations through its insurance policies. For accidents during rides, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million.
Other 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
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 Offline: If the driver is not using the Uber app, their personal insurance applies.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: Uber provides limited insurance coverage when a driver is available but not carrying passengers. Coverage includes up to $50,000 per individual for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver Picking Up or Transporting Passengers: 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 uber driver class action lawsuit insurance.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Uber Accident
When serious injuries occur, filing a lawsuit might be necessary if insurance isn’t enough. A lawsuit can provide compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.