A Guide to Uber Injury Claims: Legal Actions for Compensation
Uber has changed the way we travel. With a simple tap on your smartphone, a ride is available at your fingertips, making transportation more convenient than ever. However, with convenience comes risks. Collisions can occur, and passengers could end up injured.
This article explores typical Uber accident injuries, the process of determining fault, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Typical Injuries in Uber Accidents
Passengers in an Uber may suffer a wide range 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, which can lead to significant discomfort. It can take time to develop symptoms, making it hard to immediately detect.
Bone Injuries: Broken bones are common in severe crashes. Such injuries often require long recovery periods and surgery.
Concussions and Brain Trauma: 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.
Herniated Discs and Paralysis: Back and spine injuries are common in high-impact crashes. These types of injuries often need extensive medical intervention.
Strains and Sprains: These injuries can involve torn ligaments, strained muscles, and more. Even though they might seem minor, they cause substantial pain.
Deep Cuts and Wounds: Shattered glass or other debris from an accident may lead to severe cuts. 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. Various individuals and entities could be held accountable. Liability can include the Uber driver, other drivers, or even third parties.
The Uber Driver: Uber drivers can be held liable if they were negligent or reckless. This includes speeding, texting lawsuit against uber car accident while driving, or breaking traffic laws.
Other Drivers: If another motorist causes the crash, they could bear the blame.
Uber as a Company: 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: Road conditions, vehicle malfunctions, or other external factors can contribute to accidents. In such cases, lawsuits may involve multiple parties to determine responsibility.
Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents
Uber’s insurance coverage varies depending on the stage of the ride. Insurance differs if the driver is awaiting a request, driving to pick up someone, or in a ride.
No App Usage: When the driver is offline, their personal insurance is responsible.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: While waiting for a ride request, Uber’s insurance offers minimal coverage. This includes up to $50,000 per person for injuries and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver Picking Up or Transporting Passengers: Once the driver is picking up or transporting a passenger, Uber offers much higher coverage. The $1 million policy covers both liability and uninsured drivers, along with collision insurance.
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.