Ridesharing platforms like Uber have become integral to modern urban transportation, offering convenience and efficiency. However, the rise in their use also increases the chances of being involved in an accident. If you find yourself in an Uber crash, here’s a detailed guide, from a personal injury law perspective, on how to handle the situation.
Uber crashes are just like other car accidents in a lot of ways, and you need to know what to do after a car accident. But there are specific steps you can take in an Uber accident to make sure you’re covered for things like injuries and missed work time.
First Things First: Prioritize Safety
- Check for injuries: The immediate priority is assessing yourself and others for injuries. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if anyone requires medical care.
- Move to a safer location: If it’s safe to do so, move to the side of the road away from oncoming traffic.
Documenting the Incident
- Get a police report: Request a police report to document the accident details. The accident report serves as an objective record of the incident and plays a vital role in any legal or insurance claims.
- Gather evidence: While waiting for help, start documenting the scene.
Take pictures of the following:
— Damage to all vehicles involved
— The surrounding area
— Any visible injuries you may have sustained.
Driver details: Get the Uber driver’s name, contact information, and insurance information.
Vehicle details: Note the make, model, color, and license plate of the Uber vehicle and any other vehicles involved. Videos can also be valuable evidence. This visual evidence can be key in legal and insurance claims but If you forgot to take pictures or videos, you can read this guide for more information. - Exchange information: If there are witnesses, exchange contact information – their statements can be crucial later.
- Report the Incident to Uber: Both you and your Uber driver should immediately report the rideshare accident to Uber. Notify Uber about the vehicle accident through the Uber app. Uber has specific protocols for handling incidents involving their drivers and vehicles, including insurance coverage that may apply to your situation. All of the information you’ve gathered in the previous steps will be helpful when you report your claim. According to Uber, you can report any accident under the “Help” section on their app or by contacting Customer Support.
Seeking Medical Attention
- See a doctor: Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible after a rideshare accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, might not show immediate symptoms but can have serious long-term health consequences. It’s always better to be safe than sorry in case you realize after your adrenaline wears off that you are in fact injured.
Understanding Your Legal Options
- Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer: Uber accidents can involve complex legal issues. An experienced car accident attorney can explain your rights, navigate the claims process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- With the legal advice of an experienced personal injury lawyer, consider filing any Uber accident claim that covers damages from:
— Missed work time
— Lost items or damaged goods
— Medical expenses and care or hospital bills
— Damaged property
— Resulting conditions from the accident (PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, etc.) - Keep detailed records: Start a file to keep all your accident-related documents, including medical bills and records, receipts, a copy of the police report, correspondence with insurance companies, and any other expenses incurred due to the accident. These records are essential for compensation claims.
It’s important to receive the compensation you deserve if you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident and choose to file a personal injury claim. Again, while you may not necessarily be at fault, you can still incur injuries, so it’s crucial to keep note of important details to help file your claim.
Before engaging in communications with insurance companies or accepting any settlements, consult with a car accident lawyer. If you’re in Tacoma and surrounding areas, our law firm, Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, PLLC, specializes in these cases.
We understand the complex dynamics of rideshare accidents and can help protect your rights.
Understanding Uber’s Liability Coverage
Uber’s insurance coverage for accidents depends on when the accident happened in relation to your ride request. Here’s a breakdown:
- Before Ride Request (for Drivers or Pedestrians Only): If you were involved in an accident with an Uber driver before they accepted a ride request, Uber’s liability coverage limits are lower. They provide up to $75,000 in bodily injury per person or $150,000 per accident, plus $25,000 for property damage.
- During Pickup or Trip: If the accident occurred while you were an Uber passenger (during pickup or your trip), Uber’s liability coverage increases significantly. In this case, they offer up to $1,250,000 in damages, plus an additional $50,000 for personal injury protection.
Knowing this timeline is crucial when filing a claim, as it directly impacts the amount of coverage available from Uber.
Speak To an Accident Attorney Today for Help with Your Claim
RHHK has decades of experience in personal injury and auto accident law. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Washington state’s legal landscape and are skilled in negotiating with big corporations and insurance companies to ensure our clients receive the justice and compensation they are entitled to.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an Uber accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to help guide you through the aftermath of the accident and ensure your rights are fully protected.