Ridesharing services like Uber have revolutionized the way we travel, offering convenience and accessibility at the touch of a button. However, with this convenience comes the risk of accidents, leaving passengers uncertain about their rights and the steps they should take in the aftermath. At The Weinstein Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, we understand the confusion and stress that can follow a rideshare accident.
This blog aims to provide a clear and comprehensive guide on what to do if your Uber crashes. If you were hurt in a rideshare accident, call our Atlanta Uber accident lawyers today at 770-HELP-NOW for a free consultation.
Steps to Take if Your Uber Crashes in Atlanta
If your car is hit by an Uber vehicle or you’re hurt while riding as a passenger, it’s important to take the right steps in the aftermath.
Check for Injuries and Call the Police
The first and most crucial step after an Uber car accident is to check for injuries among all passengers and drivers involved. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance on the scene. Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s essential to ensure everyone’s safety and health.
Additionally, calling the police is necessary to have an official police report documenting the incident. This report will be a critical piece of evidence when filing an accident claim with Uber or your insurance company. The police report is important in determining who is at fault for the wreck.
Exchange Information and Document the Accident Scene
The next step is to exchange information with all people involved in the Uber accident. This includes obtaining the names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details of the Uber driver and other drivers. Document the accident scene by taking photographs of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
Collect contact information from any witnesses as their statements can be invaluable for your rideshare accident claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the Uber car accident, it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be apparent right away but can develop symptoms later. Getting a thorough medical examination ensures that any injuries are documented and treated promptly.
Keep all medical records and receipts as they will be essential. This documentation helps establish the extent of your injuries and the associated costs, strengthening your case.
Report the Accident to Uber and Your Insurance Company
Report the rideshare accident to Uber and your insurance company as soon as possible. Use the Uber app to notify the company about the car crash and provide detailed information about the incident. Both the rideshare driver and Uber passenger are expected to report an accident to Uber.
Contact your insurance company to report the accident and initiate the claims process. Providing a copy of the accident report and any documentation you’ve gathered will help Uber and your insurer process your claim efficiently.
Talk to an Uber Accident Lawyer
Navigating the complexities of an Uber accident can be challenging, especially when dealing with multiple insurance companies and understanding your legal rights. Having an experienced Uber accident lawyer handle your personal injury claim is crucial.
An attorney specializing in Uber car accidents will guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. At The Weinstein Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, our dedicated team is here to support you, providing expert legal advice and fighting for your rights every step of the way.
Can I Sue Uber if My Uber Driver Is in a Car Accident?
If you’re injured as an Uber passenger or hit by an Uber vehicle, you could sue the Uber driver, the rideshare company, or both depending on the situation.
If the driver was not using the app to accept requests at the time of the crash, you’ll have to seek compensation from the driver’s personal insurance coverage. Uber’s insurance policy covers car accidents when the driver is working and at fault.
How Much Does Uber Insurance Coverage Pay?
The short answer is that the driver’s status determines which insurance policy covers the accident and the amount of insurance coverage.
Driver Not Using App
Uber drivers are independent contractors, and Uber’s insurance will only pay for accidents when a driver is working.
If the Uber driver is not accepting fares, the driver’s personal insurance will cover the accident. Georgia law requires drivers to at least $25,000 in liability insurance per person and $50,000 per accident, as well as $25,000 for property damage.
The driver’s insurance company will handle the claim like a typical car accident case.
Rideshare Driver Accepting Requests
If the driver is online and waiting for a ride request, Uber’s third-party liability coverage offers additional protection for up to:
- $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries
- $25,000 in property damage per accident
Carrying Uber Passengers
If the driver is transporting passengers or en route to pick up a passenger, Uber’s policy covers up to $1,000,000 for bodily injury and $1,000,000 for property coverage.
Compensation for an Uber Crash
If you are involved in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for various damages.
- Medical Expenses: This includes medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, and emergency care.
- Future Medical Costs: Coverage for any anticipated future medical expenses related to the accident injuries, such as ongoing rehabilitation and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work while recovering from injuries.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: Compensation if your injuries result in a reduced ability to earn income in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Costs associated with repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle.
Contact an Atlanta Uber Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review!
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, you need an experienced Uber accident lawyer on your side. Our team at the Weinstein Firm can help you by:
- Gathering evidence to establish fault
- Dealing with insurance companies
- Negotiating a settlement
- Representing you in a personal injury lawsuit if necessary
Our law firm has a proven track record of winning millions for personal injury victims across Georgia. Contact us today for a free consultation!
