Calling an Uber is one of the modern conveniences we have that often gets taken for granted. But what happens if you’re injured in an Uber accident? Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes involve multiple parties, complex insurance policies, and legal complications that can make getting compensation tricky.
If you’re hurt in an Uber, taking the right steps immediately can protect your rights. Here’s what you need to know.
- Get Medical Attention Right Away
Your health should be your first priority. Even if you feel fine after the accident, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately but can become serious if left untreated.
If you’re in pain, have visible injuries, or feel disoriented, call 911 immediately. Emergency responders can assess your condition and provide medical care at the scene. If you don’t require an ambulance, visit an urgent care center or your primary care doctor as soon as possible.
Seeking medical treatment also creates a record of your injuries, which is crucial if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later. Delaying medical care can hurt your case, as insurers may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.
- Report the Accident to the Police and Uber
No matter how minor the accident seems, always call the police and file an official accident report. A police report provides an objective account of the crash, which can help establish fault and liability when dealing with Uber or insurance companies.
Make sure the report includes the names and contact information of everyone involved, as well as a detailed account of the accident and any statements you might have from witnesses.
After speaking with the police, report the accident to Uber through the app. Uber has an in-app feature that allows you to report an accident, and they will contact you to gather more details. Do not downplay your injuries or accept blame – simply provide the facts.
- Document Everything at the Scene
If you’re physically able to, gather as much evidence as possible before leaving the scene. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be when seeking compensation.
Here’s what to collect:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Screenshots of your Uber ride details, including the driver’s name and license plate.
- Contact information of the Uber driver, other involved drivers, and any eyewitnesses.
- A written account of what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind.
- Understand Who Covers Your Injuries
One of the biggest challenges in an Uber accident is figuring out who is responsible for paying your medical bills and other damages. Unlike a typical car accident, multiple insurance policies may be involved, including:
- Uber’s insurance policy: Uber provides coverage for riders, but the level of coverage depends on when the accident occurs. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger, Uber’s $1 million liability policy may cover your injuries.
- The Uber driver’s personal insurance: Some drivers have additional rideshare coverage through their own insurer.
- The other driver’s insurance: If another driver caused the accident, their insurance should cover your injuries.
- Your personal insurance: If other policies don’t fully cover your damages, your health or auto insurance may help.
- Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurance Companies
After an Uber accident, you might receive calls from Uber’s insurance company, the driver’s insurance provider, or even the at-fault driver’s insurer. While it might seem like they’re just gathering information, insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts.
“Following an injury, the last thing you want to do is negotiate with anyone,” Mette Attorneys at Law explains. “It is also difficult for you to know what is fair compensation for your injuries and losses, knowing how and when to request that compensation or even when it might be necessary to put your case into a legal suit.”
For this reason, avoid giving recorded statements or signing anything before consulting an attorney. Even a seemingly harmless comment like “I’m feeling better today” can be used against you to reduce your claim.
- Consider Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
Uber accident claims are rarely simple, and insurance companies are not in the business of paying out large settlements without resistance. If you’ve suffered serious injuries, had your claim denied, or are struggling to get fair compensation, hiring a personal injury attorney can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
If negotiations don’t lead to an acceptable offer, your lawyer can take the case to court and fight for what you deserve. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t have to pay anything upfront – their payment only comes if they win your case.
This ensures that you have the legal representation you need without financial risk, giving you the best chance at receiving the compensation necessary for your recovery.
Adding it All Up
Hopefully, you never find yourself in a situation where you need to go through these steps. However, if you do, now you know some of the proper precautions to take. This will allow you to maximize your safety and avoid unnecessary risk.
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