A personal injury claim enables someone who has been injured in an accident to recover some or even all losses or damages from a liable party. The claim is filed against the individual who is considered to be liable or at fault for the accident.
You might be wondering if you still have the right to file a personal injury claim if you are injured in an accident involving an Uber driver. The answer? Potentially. Here's a little more information on filing a personal injury claim against an Uber:
Filing a Personal Injury Claim if Riding in Uber During a Crash
Uber drivers are required to have special insurance coverage because traditional auto insurance does not cover business services or hauling riders for hire. Uber has a three-part insurance policy that covers drivers and passengers. The insurance coverage is dependent upon the activity of the Uber driver at the exact time of the car accident.
Here is a hypothetical example of what could occur and how you might be able to pursue your personal injury claim while riding with Uber if you were riding as an Uber passenger when the driver crashed into another car:
Uber provides a one million dollar liability insurance policy. If the Uber driver is not at fault for the crash but the other driver's insurance doesn't cover all your damages, Uber has a million dollar uninsured/underinsured insurance policy as well to help protect you and the driver. You might be able to receive the additional compensation from Uber's policy.
Proceeding With a Personal Injury Claim
You would proceed with a claim against Uber in the same manner you would proceed with any other personal injury claim resulting from a car accident. You will need to maintain accurate documentation to prove your losses:
- Keep copies of medical records and medical bills
- Maintain documentation of time off work
- Get estimates for any property damage
- Pursue your losses for pain and suffering that resulted from the injuries you sustained in the crash
In most instances, any injury is worthy of some form of pain and suffering settlement even if it is minimal. Get any follow-up medical care so you can work toward recovering from any injuries that were sustained in the accident.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in a car crash while riding in an Uber vehicle, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. A personal injury can investigate the accident and determine the financial amount of your losses and figure up the damages that you would be entitled to as the personal injury settlement.
A personal injury attorney doesn't get paid until your claim has been settled, so you have no out-of-pocket upfront costs. Negotiating a settlement with an insurance adjuster can be a challenge, but a personal injury attorney is experienced in handling such negotiations and will ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
*The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Uber, or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
