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Can I Sue Uber After a Car Accident?

For over a decade, Americans have been hitching rides with Uber drivers. This modern and convenient service saw $57 billion in gross bookings in 2020 across 93 million users. Despite the pandemic, the company had nearly five billion trips and is valued at $46 billion. Even though Uber is highly convenient, good for the environment, reduces the temptation to drink and drive, and has many other benefits, it also has its drawbacks.

One of these drawbacks is accidents. Suppose you were involved in an accident while riding with an Uber driver or were in another vehicle. In that case, it’s imperative that you speak with an Orange County rideshare accident attorney about your claim.

Causes of Uber Accidents

Uber accidents can arise from many of the same causes of other motor vehicle accidents; distracted driving, reckless driving, speeding, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and not obeying traffic lights and signs. However, rideshare drivers are at greater risk of causing or being involved in crashes due to some specific job duties. For instance:

  • They are using their smartphone more— for example, they are checking their maps and seeing if they can pick up more passengers.
  • They often drive in unfamiliar locations.
  • They are drowsy or tired as Uber is their moonlighting job.
  • They can become distracted by talking to their passengers.
  • Their minds are focused on the next passengers they will pick up or what location they will drive to, and what route to take.

Who Pays for Your Injuries in an Uber Accident?

Determining liability can be tricky in any car accident. Sometimes rideshare accidents can be even more so. You have the right to file an injury claim against the person or party who caused your injuries. However, Uber may or may not be that party.

If the Uber driver caused the accident and they were using the platform to provide rides at that time, Uber’s insurance company will pay for your damages. Uber must provide the following coverage to its drivers under the law.

If the driver is available or waiting for a ride request, third-party liability coverage if the Uber driver’s auto insurance doesn’t apply in the amounts of:

  • $50,000 in bodily injury per person
  • $100,000 in bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage per accident

If the driver is en route to pick up riders and actively on a trip, Uber maintains the following auto insurance on behalf of its drivers:

  • $1,000,000 third-party liability
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury
  • Contingent comprehensive and collision
  • Up to actual cash value of a car with a $2,500 deductible

If you were a motorist or passenger in another vehicle and the driver wasn’t working for Uber at that time, their own private insurance policy should cover your damages according to their policy limits.

It’s also possible that there are third parties liable for the accident, and you can seek compensation from their insurance coverage. One significant benefit of having legal representation after an Uber accident is that they will maximize your compensation by utilizing all applicable insurance policies. Suppose the applicable insurance companies fail to offer you a fair settlement for your damages. In that case, your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf to pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Call an Experienced Uber Accident Attorney Today

Uber accident liability and insurance coverage can be quite complex. When you hire the right personal injury attorney, you can be assured that you will receive the best outcome possible in your case. The sooner you reach out for help, the better the chances that you will receive full compensation.