Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can request a ride within minutes, making it incredibly convenient. However, with convenience comes risks. Accidents can happen, and passengers could end up injured.
In this article, typical Uber accident injuries, how to determine liability, as well as the legal process for compensation.
Frequent Injuries from Uber Rides
When riding in an Uber, a variety of injuries, particularly when the vehicle is in an accident. Some of the most common injuries that occur include:
Cervical Strain: 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: High-impact accidents can lead to broken arms, legs, and ribs. They may need surgery or prolonged recovery time.
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: Accidents can cause serious spinal issues, including disc herniation and paralysis. suing uber for accident These types of injuries often need extensive medical intervention.
Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries can involve torn ligaments, strained muscles, and more. Despite being "minor," they can cause considerable pain and complications.
Deep Cuts and Wounds: Broken glass and debris often cause lacerations. Some of these wounds may require stitches or surgical repair.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident?
Understanding who is liable in an Uber injury case is often complex. 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: Uber drivers can be held liable if they were negligent or reckless. Common causes include distracted driving or breaking traffic laws.
Other Drivers: 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. For accidents during rides, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million.
Liability from Third Parties: Sometimes, accidents result from external factors like road hazards or defective parts. In these cases, more than one party might share liability.
Uber’s Insurance Policy for Riders
Uber provides different levels of insurance depending on the status of the trip. Coverage changes depending on if the driver is waiting for a ride request or transporting passengers.
No App Usage: If the driver is not using the Uber app, their personal insurance applies.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: While waiting for a ride request, Uber’s insurance offers minimal coverage. 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.