Ridesharing with Uber has transformed transportation. By simply using the Uber app, you can request a ride within minutes, making transportation more convenient than ever. As convenient as Uber is, it’s not without its risks. Accidents can happen, and passengers could end up injured.
This article explores the most common injuries in Uber-related accidents, how to determine liability, as well as the legal process for compensation.
Frequent Injuries from Uber Rides
Passengers in an Uber may suffer many different types of injuries, particularly when the vehicle is in an accident. Some frequent injuries include:
Neck Injuries: Whiplash often results from rear-end crashes, which can lead to significant discomfort. Symptoms can be delayed, making it harder to recognize uber class action lawsuit early on.
Broken Bones: High-impact accidents can lead to broken arms, legs, and ribs. Fractures may demand extended treatment and rehabilitation.
Head and Brain Injuries: From mild concussions to severe TBIs, head injuries can vary in severity. These injuries may result in long-term cognitive issues and other serious health problems.
Spine 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. Despite being "minor," they can cause considerable pain and complications.
Deep Cuts and Wounds: Shattered glass or other debris from an accident may lead to severe cuts. Such cuts may need immediate medical attention, including surgery.
Determining Liability in Uber Injury Cases
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: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or driving recklessly, they might be liable. This includes speeding, texting while driving, or breaking traffic laws.
Another Motorist: If another vehicle was at fault, their driver could be liable for the accident.
Uber as a Company: Uber may be liable in certain situations through its insurance policies. Uber offers up to $1 million in liability coverage during active rides.
Other Third Parties: Sometimes, accidents result from external factors like road hazards or defective parts. In such cases, lawsuits may involve multiple parties to determine responsibility.
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 Available for Rides: During this phase, Uber’s coverage includes $50,000 for injury liability per person. Coverage includes up to $50,000 per individual for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.
Active Uber Ride: Once the driver is picking up or transporting a passenger, Uber offers much higher coverage. The $1 million policy covers both liability and uninsured drivers, along with collision insurance.
Steps in an Uber Injury Lawsuit
If an Uber accident causes significant injury, legal action may be required to get fair compensation. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.