Uber Accidents

From the term itself, Uber accidents are road mishaps that involve a passenger and a driver on a vehicle from Uber, a mobility service provider. An Uber crash falls under personal injury or car accidents specifically and the individual who was involved in this kind of accident is entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

One might be tempted to sue Uber immediately after getting into an accident but there are plenty of other factors to consider before this action. Arming yourself with a skilled San Luis Obispo, CA attorney is the first step to gain more insight into your situation before determining your next action. 

Can I Sue Uber For the Accident?

There are certain circumstances that must be taken into consideration before suing Uber for the accident. You can sue Uber if:

• The Uber driver is using the vehicle for personal reasons without being logged into the app that they are insured for via personal auto insurance companies.
• The Uber driver can be sued if they are logged into the app but not rendering transportation service to anyone when the accident took place and they are covered by their personal insurance policy. The Uber insurance company will then give $50,000 per injury and half this amount in damages.
• When the Uber driver is transporting passengers and gets involved in an accident, Uber pitches in with its million-dollar policy which will cover drivers who are both insured and uninsured. 

What Damages Can I Receive From an Uber Accident?

Since Uber accidents fall under vehicular accidents, the compensation you receive is quite similar. These include: 

• Past and future medical bills
• Vehicular Repair
• Lost Wages
• Pain and Suffering
• Emotional Distress

Is Uber Liable for Your Injuries?

Transportation companies such as Uber regard their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This is done in order for Uber to avoid spending on employment benefits along with limiting their liability on the drivers should they get into accidents or cause accidents themselves. Employers are likely to be held responsible for an employee’s involvement in accidents instead of independent contractors. 

Accidents caused by a rideshare driver’s actions would result in you going after the driver’s car insurance or the rideshare company’s insurance since companies like Uber require insurance coverage for drivers. However, if you find that your claim has been denied, you can file a case against Uber. This action, however, will most likely make the companies point toward the driver’s classification as an independent contractor.  

How Long Will I Wait to File A Lawsuit?

Most companies will get you to drop your right to a lawsuit and just agree on a settlement, but if you are dead set on filing a rideshare injury lawsuit, take action now. Be mindful of the fact that every state has a time limit on a person’s injury-related lawsuit filing. Missing the deadline can mean losing your right to sue along with the compensation you stand to get in your Uber accident claim.