Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. With a simple tap on your smartphone, you can get a ride almost anywhere, making it incredibly convenient. Despite its convenience, risks still exist. Accidents can happen, and when they do, passengers may suffer injuries.
This article explores what kinds of injuries are most common in Uber accidents, how to determine liability, along with legal options for pursuing a claim.
Typical Injuries in Uber Accidents
When riding in an Uber, a wide range of injuries, especially if the driver is can you sue uber for an accident involved in an accident. Among the most common injuries are:
Neck Injuries: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, which can lead to significant discomfort. It can take time to develop symptoms, making it hard to immediately detect.
Broken Bones: Broken bones are common in severe crashes. Such injuries often require long recovery periods and surgery.
Concussions and Brain Trauma: Accidents may cause head trauma, ranging from mild to severe. Head injuries can affect cognition and health for a long time.
Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: A severe impact may cause spinal cord damage, herniated discs, or even paralysis. These types of injuries often need extensive medical intervention.
Strains and Sprains: Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are common in car accidents. Though less visible, they can cause significant discomfort.
Severe Scratches and Lacerations: Sharp debris from accidents may cause deep wounds. Lacerations can lead to stitches, scars, and even infection.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident?
Understanding who is liable in an Uber injury case is often complex. Multiple parties might share the blame for an accident. Liability can include the Uber driver, other drivers, or even third parties.
Driver Liability: The Uber driver can be responsible for any injuries if they were at fault. This includes speeding, texting while driving, or breaking traffic laws.
Another Motorist: If another motorist causes the crash, they could bear the blame.
The Role of Uber: Uber itself could be liable if certain conditions are met under their insurance policy. For accidents during rides, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million.
Other Third Parties: Third parties, such as government entities or manufacturers, may be liable. Liability could extend beyond drivers, requiring investigation into other causes.
What Uber’s Insurance Covers in Accidents
Uber’s insurance coverage varies depending on the stage of the ride. The coverage changes whether the driver is waiting for a ride, en route, or carrying passengers.
Driver Offline: When the driver is offline, their personal insurance is responsible.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: Uber provides limited insurance coverage when a driver is available but not carrying passengers. Liability limits include $50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for vehicle damage.
Active Uber Ride: When an Uber driver is on a trip, the company’s insurance provides up to $1 million in coverage. The coverage includes $1 million for liability and uninsured motorists, as well as collision coverage.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Uber Accident
If an Uber accident causes significant injury, legal action may be required to get fair compensation. The legal process can help victims recover lost wages, medical expenses, and damages.