Ride-sharing apps like Uber have revolutionized the way we get around town. But with convenience comes risk, and accidents can happen at any time. If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries and damages.
However, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming and complicated. That’s why we’re sharing some valuable tips on how to maximize your compensation by handling your Uber accident case effectively. From documenting evidence to working with experienced Uber accident attorneys in Irvine, read on for expert advice that could make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Most Common Types of Uber Accident Cases
One of the most common types of Uber accidents is a collision with another vehicle. If you’re involved in such an accident as an Uber driver, it’s important to exchange insurance information with the other driver and to take photos of the damage to both vehicles. You should also get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident occur.
Uber accidents can sometimes be caused by defective Uber-owned vehicles or by negligent Uber drivers. If you are a pedestrian or a driver involved in an accident caused by an Uber, you may have a claim against Uber itself. In order to pursue such a claim, it’s important to gather evidence like photos or video footage of the defect or negligence, as well as any eyewitness testimony.
No matter what type of Uber accident you’ve been involved in, it’s important to speak with an experienced Irvine personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Understanding the Legal Process for Uber Accident Claims
When you are involved in an Uber accident as a driver or a passenger, it is important to understand the process for filing a claim and seeking compensation.
The first step is to file a police report and obtain a copy of the accident report. Next, you will need to gather any evidence you have to support your claim, and then file your claim with Uber’s insurance company.
If your claim is accepted, you will be compensated for your damages up to the policy limit. If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision or file a lawsuit against Uber.
Gather Evidence and Information From the Accident Scene
After an Uber accident, whether you were the driver or a passenger in the vehicle, it’s important to take quick and thorough action in order to increase your chances of receiving maximum compensation. The evidence and information you gather at the scene of the accident will be critical in supporting your claim.
Be sure to take the following steps:
- Take photos or videos of the damage to all vehicles involved, as well as any visible injuries.
- Collect contact information for all drivers and passengers involved, as well as any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
- Get the name, badge number, and contact information of the responding police officer.
- Make note of any traffic signs or signals in the area, as well as road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- If you receive any medical treatment at the scene, be sure to get documentation of this from the responding paramedics or EMTs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Handling an Uber Accident Claim
If you’re involved in an accident while using the Uber app, there are a few common mistakes that can jeopardize your chances of receiving full compensation for your damages. Here are four mistakes to avoid when handling an Uber accident claim:
Don’t Wait to Seek Medical Treatment
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Not only will this help document your injuries, but it could also improve your chances of making a full recovery.
Don’t Give a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
The other driver’s insurance company may try to contact you for a recorded statement, but it’s best to avoid giving one until you’ve consulted with an attorney. Anything you say could be used against you and may jeopardize your case.
Don’t Rely on Uber’s Insurance Policy Alone
Uber’s insurance coverage for accidents can pay up to $1 million per incident, but that is seldom the case. If the Uber insurance doesn’t cover the full extent of your damages, you’ll need to file a claim with your own insurance company or take legal action against the at-fault driver to recover the rest.
Don’t Accept a Quick Settlement From the Insurance Company
It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to try and lowball accident victims with quick settlements that don’t reflect the true extent of their damages. If you’re offered a settlement, make sure to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before accepting it.
Factors That Determine the Amount of Compensation You Can Receive
There are many factors that will determine the amount of compensation you can receive after being involved in an accident while using the Uber app. Some of these include:
- Whether or not you had insurance at the time of the accident.
- The severity of your injuries.
- How much property damage was caused by the accident.
- Whether or not the other driver was at fault for the accident.
- The laws in your state regarding Uber accidents and compensation.
Compensation for Passengers
In California, ride-sharing companies like Uber are classified as “transportation network companies,” which allows for passengers injured while riding to be covered by the company’s commercial liability insurance.
Assembly Bill. No. 2293, introduced in the state in 2014, provides that Uber and Lyft need to have a minimum of $1 million in liability insurance, in order to protect consumers involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver.
A passenger injured in an Uber accident may have a claim against the driver, but if the damages exceed the driver’s insurance coverage, you may be covered by the company’s $1 million policy. This insurance coverage can also extend to the Uber driver, if they were injured in an accident during a passenger ride.
Compensation for Uber Drivers
As a driver, if you were not logged in to the Uber system or did not have a passenger at the time of the accident, any damage or injury will be covered by your personal insurance.
In California, minimum liability requirements for auto accident insurance allow for $15,000 coverage for injury or death to one person, $30,000 coverage for injury or death to more than one person, and $5,000 coverage for damaged property.
If the accident occurred while you were logged in the Uber system but without a passenger, any injuries or damages will typically be covered by your personal insurance. But if, for some reason, your insurance company rejects your claim, Uber’s insurance coverage can provide up to $50,000 for injury, depending on the severity of your case.
How an Uber Accident Lawyer in Irvine Can Help Maximize Your Compensation
No one ever expects to be in an accident, let alone one that wasn’t their fault. But if you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to know what to do next in order to maximize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
One of the most important things you can do is to hire a top-rated accident lawyer in Orange County who knows how to deal with Uber and other ride-sharing companies. These companies are often reluctant to pay out on claims, so you need someone on your side who knows how to fight for your rights.
Your lawyer will also be able to help you gather all the evidence you need to support your case, including witness statements, photos of the scene of the accident, and any medical records or bills related to your injuries.
Once you have all this information together, your Irvine Uber accident lawyer will be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free, initial consultation.
