Understanding the insurance coverage available to passengers injured in an Uber accident is crucial to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Rideshare companies like Uber have unique insurance policies that can be complex to navigate, but knowing the basics can help you in your personal injury claim. In this article, we'll explore the insurance coverage options available for passengers injured in Uber accidents.
Uber's Insurance Policy
Uber maintains a comprehensive insurance policy that offers coverage for both drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. The coverage varies depending on the stage of the ride and the driver's status within the Uber app. Uber's insurance policy is typically divided into three critical periods:
Period 1: App is on, but no ride request accepted.
During this period, the Uber driver has the app on but has not yet accepted a ride request. If an accident occurs during this time, Uber provides third-party liability coverage if the driver's personal insurance does not apply or is insufficient. The coverage at this stage includes the following:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury;
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury;
- $25,000 per accident for property damage.
As a passenger, you would not be involved in an accident during this period because the driver has not yet accepted a ride request.
Period 2: Ride request accepted, en route to pick up passenger.
Once the driver accepts a ride request and is on their way to pick up the passenger, Uber's insurance coverage increases. During this period, the following coverage typically applies:
- $1 million in third-party liability coverage;
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage (amount varies by state);
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (up to the cash value of the car, with a $1,000 deductible).
As a passenger waiting to be picked up, you would not be directly involved in an accident during this period. However, if another motorist causes an accident while the Uber driver is en route to pick you up, you may be eligible for uninsured motorist coverage or underinsured motorist coverage if you are injured as a result.
Period 3: Passenger in the Uber.
Once the passenger enters the vehicle and the trip begins, Uber's insurance coverage is at its highest. The following coverage typically applies during this period:
- $1 million in third-party liability coverage;
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage (amount varies by state);
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (up to the cash value of the car, with a $1,000 deductible).
As a passenger, you are covered under Uber's insurance policy during the trip. If you are injured in an accident while riding in an Uber, you may be eligible for compensation through the company's third-party liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Personal Auto Insurance and Health Insurance
In addition to Uber's insurance coverage, passengers injured in an Uber accident may also have access to coverage through their personal auto insurance or health insurance. Depending on your policy, you may be able to file a claim for medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP) benefits. Additionally, your health insurance may cover medical expenses related to your injuries.
Seeking Compensation After an Uber Accident
If you are injured in an Uber accident, it's essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the complex insurance landscape. They can assist you in determining which coverage options are available to you and guide you through the claims process. By understanding the various insurance coverage options, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Taking Legal Action Against At-Fault Parties
In some cases, the insurance coverage provided by Uber or your personal insurance policies may not be enough to cover the full extent of your injuries and damages. In such situations, it may be necessary to take legal action against the at-fault parties to pursue additional compensation.
An experienced Florida rideshare accident attorney can help you determine if legal action is warranted and assist you in building a strong case against the responsible parties. These may include the Uber driver, another motorist involved in the accident, or even Uber itself if the company's negligence contributed to the accident.
Statute of Limitations
When considering legal action, it's essential to be aware of the statute of limitations in your jurisdiction. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit, and it varies from state to state. In most cases, you will have a limited amount of time to pursue legal action after the accident. In Florida, the statute of limitations is four (4) years. Failing to file a lawsuit within that specified timeframe could result in losing your right to seek compensation. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any critical deadlines.
Maximizing Your Compensation After an Uber Accident
To maximize the compensation you receive after an Uber accident, it's crucial to follow several key steps. These include:
- Seeking prompt medical attention to diagnose and treat your injuries;
- Documenting the accident scene, including taking photographs of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions;
- Obtaining contact information from witnesses and other parties involved in the accident;
- Reporting the accident to Uber and your insurance company;
- Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the claims process and advocate on your behalf.
By following these steps and understanding the various insurance coverage options available to you, you can increase your chances of receiving the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and other accident-related costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, passengers injured in Uber accidents have multiple insurance coverage options available to them, including Uber's own insurance policy, personal auto insurance, and health insurance. Understanding these options is crucial to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Always consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to navigate the complex insurance landscape and protect your rights after an Uber accident.Top of Form
Were You Injured While Riding in an Uber?
If you were injured in a Uber accident, Lyft accident, or any other rideshare accident in Florida, you should speak with a skilled and aggressive Orlando rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible because you may be entitled to compensation. We offer free legal consultations, so a call is no risk to you.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us on our website, or you can call our Orlando, Florida personal injury law firm today at (321) 352-7588 to schedule your free consultation by phone. When you schedule a consultation at our law firm, you will get a consultation with a rideshare accident lawyer, not a customer service representative or intake person.
If you need a South Carolina personal injury lawyer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (843) 638-6590. We have at least one lawyer licensed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. So, if you’ve been injured in the Southeast, we may be able to help you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
For more information on personal injury cases in general, you can download our free personal injury guide: P.I. 101: Your Quick Guide to Personal Injury Claims.
