What To Do After an Uber Accident: Seeking Legal Help
Post date :
February 13, 2024
Founder, Western Slope Law
Ridesharing services like Uber have transformed how we move in Colorado, offering convenience and flexibility for both locals and visitors. However, as the number of rideshare vehicles on the road increases, so does the potential for accidents. If you find yourself involved in a crash or assault involving an Uber or Lyft driver, it's crucial to know your rights and the steps to take to ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries. Western Slope Law stands ready to guide you through this complex process with professionalism, compassion, and serious results.
Uber Accidents and Assaults are More Common Than You Think
In 2021, Uber drivers offered 6.368 billion rides to people worldwide. The popularity of Uber and other rideshare platforms has led to some stark numbers regarding accidents and physical/sexual assault of rideshare users. According to a 2019-20 public safety document issued by Uber, there were 3,824 reports across the five most severe categories of sexual assault and misconduct. Uber identified 20 physical assault fatalities in connection with an Uber ride during the 2010-19 time period. And Uber disclosed 101 motor vehicle fatalities—42% of which involved vulnerable motorists such as pedestrians, motorcyclists, and persons riding on bicycles or scooters. While most Uber rides are completed without issue, accidents and assaults do happen, and Uber and its drivers can be held liable when they occur.
Understanding Uber Accidents
Uber accidents involve scenarios where you might be a passenger in an Uber vehicle, a driver or passenger in another vehicle involved in a collision with an Uber, a pedestrian struck by an Uber vehicle, or an individual who is physically or sexually assaulted by an Uber or other rideshare driver. These accidents raise unique legal considerations due to the multiple parties involved and the evolving nature of rideshare insurance policies.
Key Points to Consider in Uber Accidents:
Insurance Coverage: Uber provides its drivers with insurance coverage that can vary depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident (e.g., whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a rider, or during a trip). Generally speaking, Uber disclaims liability when its drivers aren't using the app and are on their own time when an accident occurs. Under this circumstances, the driver's personal automobile liability insurance policy may be responsible. If an Uber driver is available and awaiting a ride request but is not yet enroute to or transporting a rider, then Uber maintains $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury insurance coverage, as well as $25,000 in property damage coverage on a per-accident basis. If an Uber driver is enroute to or transporting a rider when an accident or assault occurs, Uber maintains up to $1,000,000 in liability insurance coverage, together with uninsured or underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage for passengers.
This can be significantly more insurance coverage than the average Colorado driver carriers. For example, many Colorado motorists carry the minimum amount of automobile liability insurance required by the state: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident. Establishing the status and fault of Uber and/or its drivers can make a huge difference in the amount of funds available for settling with an injured party. The amount of coverage available is likewise dependent upon the nature of the crash, as the highest Uber insurance limits are reserved to rideshare passengers.
Liability: Determining liability in Uber accidents can be complicated. It may involve the Uber driver, the rideshare company, or another third party. Investigating when and how the injury occurred, who is liable, whether the driver was enroute to or transporting the rider, and other considerations can greatly affect who is responsible and the amount of insurance coverage available. In addition to this, the nature of the Uber app and its near-constant interaction with drivers is necessarily distracting to Uber drivers—drivers are often looking at the app while transporting passengers, or using it for directions, or reviewing and accepting the next ride all while simultaneously driving passengers around. That's why it's paramount to consult with an experienced attorney if you've been injured in a crash or assault in any way involving a Uber or rideshare trip, vehicle, or company.
Compensation: Victims of Uber accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Understanding the nuances of how compensation is calculated in these cases is essential, so is supporting those damages with evidence in order to secure the best settlement.
Statute of Limitations: There is a limited timeframe within which you can file a lawsuit after an Uber accident. In Colorado, this is typically two years from the date of the accident, but exceptions can apply.
Why Western Slope Law?
Rideshare Accident Expertise: Our lawyers have specific experience with rideshare accident claims, including Uber accidents. We stay updated on the latest legal developments to advocate effectively for your rights.
Personalized Legal Strategy: At Western Slope Law, we understand that every Uber accident case is unique. We take the time to listen to your story, meticulously investigate the details of your case, establish the liability and status of Uber and its driver, maximize and support your damages, and develop a tailored legal strategy aimed at achieving a life-changing settlement for you and your loved ones.
No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't owe us anything unless we secure compensation for you. This approach allows you to focus on your recovery without financial worry.
Steps to Take After an Uber Accident
Ensure Safety: Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if immediate medical attention is needed.
Report the Accident: Inform the police and ensure a report is filed. Also, report the accident to Uber through the app.
Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, collect contact information from witnesses, and keep a record of your medical treatments.
Seek Legal Advice: Contact a knowledgeable Uber accident lawyer at Western Slope Law before dealing with Uber and/or any insurance companies. We will help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.
Your Path to a Life-Changing Settlement Starts Here
If you've been involved in an Uber accident in Western Colorado, you don't have to navigate the aftermath alone. The team at Western Slope Law is here to provide the expert legal support you need to secure the best result possible. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step towards recovery.
