Rideshare services like Uber have revolutionized the personal transportation landscape. They are convenient and eliminate the cost of car ownership. But what if you’re hurt while riding with Uber? Can you sue after getting hurt in an Uber accident?
Laws surrounding Uber accidents remain murky. If you’re injured in a rideshare, you are well-advised to seek an experienced attorney. Uber itself knows accidents happen almost daily, so the company carries massive insurance policies set up to pay out claims.
Rideshares and the Law
Attorneys experienced with Uber injury claims understand how to get you the best financial settlement allowed under the law. How much you can expect depends upon the circumstances surrounding your individual experience. The first consideration is determining liability. It is highly unlikely, if not completely impossible, for an Uber passenger to be held responsible for causing an accident. However, it is the rider’s obligation to prove who the at-fault party is.
For example, if a careless Uber driver is at fault, your lawyer can hold that individual’s insurance company liable, which can increase the amount of your settlement. If another driver on the road was careless and hit you while you were riding in an Uber, then you could wind up fighting them in court. Often, Uber and the other party are each assigned a percentage of the blame.
Settlements
Securing a fair settlement depends on how well you prove the extent of your losses. You cannot simply claim you were hurt or unable to work and expect to get a large payout. You have to receive medical treatment and follow through with doctor’s appointments, then document those physician visits so the information can be submitted in court.
Losses that may be covered in your settlement typically include:
• Auto repairs
• Medical bills
• Lost time at work
• Pain and suffering
• Long term disability
In the case of serious injury, analyzing an Uber accident is complicated indeed. Unraveling tricky laws surrounding ride shares can keep even the best lawyers up at night. Firms experienced with Uber accidents will work doggedly to win you the compensation you deserve.
The Role of Insurance
As a passenger, your insurance may cover some expenses. For example, if your wreck involves an uninsured motorist, your own insurance company may make the payout. Some states provide the rider with insurance coverage in the event the Uber is hit by an uninsured or under-insured driver. But in most cases, your insurance will be the one to pay.
If the Uber driver is found liable, the company’s huge insurance policies kick in. Keep in mind that when there are multiple vehicles involved, there can be a race to the front of the line to get a settlement. If you are the last one to cross that line, your settlement could be lower than expected, so time is of the essence when you’re hurt and need justice.
Take Action Yourself, but Remain Patient
You should collect evidence at the scene, speak with witnesses, and take photos that will support your claim. After that, you will have to be patient. Once you have everything organized, it will still take some time until your case is settled. Don’t accept the first settlement offer. Instead, ask for advice. One bad decision could cost you tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, so it’s imperative to stay calm while your lawyer works on your behalf.