Uber offers an undeniably convenient way to get around without all the hassles of driving, including parking. Uber accident claims, however, can be even more legally challenging than run-of-the-mill car accident claims. If you’ve been injured by an Uber driver’s negligence, it’s time to discuss your claim with an experienced accident lawyer at Conlon Tarker P.C.
Risk Factors Associated with Uber Drivers
While Uber drivers are paid to pick up and deliver passengers, they are not professional drivers in any real sense of the word. In other words, they are not required to have any more experience than anyone else on the road, and they needn’t carry a special driver’s license. They do, however, experience additional driving risks like the following:
- They must enter and exit traffic frequently and must also make frequent stops, which are closely associated with increased accident rates.
- They must interact with the Uber app behind the wheel, which can be dangerously distracting.
- Uber drivers must locate passengers and safe pickup and drop-off sites while driving, which can interfere with safe driving.
How Uber Accidents Differ from Other Car Accident Claims
The critical difference between Uber accident claims and other car accident claims is which insurance company is involved. If you are injured in a car accident that was caused by the other driver’s negligence, you’ll file your claim with that driver’s car insurance provider. If, however, you are injured in an Uber accident, the matter of where the driver is in the Uber process determines the insurance company or insurance companies involved.
If You Are an Uber Passenger
If you are injured as a passenger in an Uber, the company’s robust coverage applies. You’ll file your claim with Uber’s provider, and your knowledgeable Uber accident attorney will take the steps necessary to help achieve a favorable resolution.
If You Are Not an Uber Passenger
If you are injured by an Uber driver’s negligence, such as excess speed, impairment, or distraction, but you aren’t a passenger in their vehicle, the matter is more challenging. If the Uber driver has a passenger or is on the way to pick one up, you will file with the company’s provider.
If, however, the Uber driver is on the app but waiting to be assigned a passenger, you will file your claim with the driver’s personal insurance provider. If this coverage, which Uber requires them to carry, is exhausted by your claim, you will look to Uber’s provider to cover the losses that exceed the driver’s policy limits.
Finally, if the driver is off the app – even momentarily – Uber’s coverage is not involved. Your claim will proceed like any other car accident claim.
Our Experienced Accident Attorneys Have the Legal Insight to Help
The capable Butler Uber accident lawyers at Conlon Tarker P.C. are proud of our impressive track record of success and look forward to helping you on your journey toward just compensation. Learn more by contacting us online or calling 724-285-7700 today.
