Uber has changed the way we travel. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can request a ride within minutes, making it incredibly convenient. However, with convenience comes risks. Collisions can occur, and when they do, passengers may suffer injuries.
We will cover what kinds of injuries are most common in Uber accidents, the process of determining fault, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Common Uber Injuries
An Uber accident can cause many different types of injuries, especially if the driver is involved in an accident. Among the most common injuries are:
Whiplash: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, causing pain and limited mobility. Symptoms can be delayed, making it harder to recognize early on.
Bone Injuries: Accidents can easily cause fractures, especially in limbs. They may need surgery or prolonged recovery time.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): From mild concussions to severe TBIs, head injuries can vary in severity. These injuries may result in long-term cognitive issues and other serious health problems.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents can cause serious spinal issues, including disc herniation and paralysis. They often result in long-term pain and expensive treatments.
Muscle Tears and Ligament Damage: 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: Broken glass and debris often cause lacerations. Some of these wounds may require stitches or surgical repair.
Determining Liability in Uber Injury Cases
Understanding who is liable in an Uber injury case is often complex. Various individuals and entities could be held accountable. Liability can include the Uber driver, other drivers, or even third parties.
Uber’s Driver: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or uber lawsuit accident driving recklessly, they might be liable. Examples include speeding, DUI, or violating traffic rules.
Another Motorist: If another motorist causes the crash, they could bear the blame.
Uber as a Company: Uber itself could be liable if certain conditions are met under their insurance policy. Uber’s insurance includes a $1 million policy for accidents during trips.
Third-Party Liability: Third parties, such as government entities or manufacturers, may be liable. Liability could extend beyond drivers, requiring investigation into other causes.
Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents
The amount of insurance Uber provides depends on when the accident happens. Insurance differs if the driver is awaiting a request, driving to pick up someone, or in a ride.
Driver Not Using the App: When the driver is offline, their personal insurance is responsible.
Driver Online Without Passengers: During this phase, Uber’s coverage includes $50,000 for injury liability per person. Liability limits include $50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for vehicle damage.
Driver En Route or During a Ride: While en route to pick up passengers or during the ride, Uber’s $1 million policy applies. The coverage includes $1 million for liability and uninsured motorists, as well as collision coverage.
Steps in an Uber Injury Lawsuit
In severe injury cases, legal action might be the best option if insurance fails. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.