Ridesharing services have been a popular method of transportation in recent years. Thousands of people use this type of service from companies like Uber every day in the U.S. While they are a convenient way of transportation, they can also be dangerous. Unfortunately, multiple accidents have been reported throughout the years. You may wonder who is liable after an Uber accident. Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm explain more about whether you can sue an Uber driver after a crash.
Understanding Uber’s Insurance
To understand your rights as an injured passenger in an Uber ride, you need to understand the company’s complicated insurance policy coverage. Typically, Uber divides its insurance policy into three main categories, which only take effect under specific circumstances. Our Uber accident lawyers discuss each of them below.
Insurance Coverage While the Driver is Logged Out of the Uber App
If an Uber driver is not logged into their driver application, it means they are using their vehicle as anybody else would. Essentially, this means the driver is off the clock, meaning they are not available to take any passengers. If an Uber driver gets involved in a car accident, bus accident, truck accident, or any other vehicular crash, Uber will not cover them. However, insurance coverage can change if the driver is logged into his or her app.
Insurance Coverage While the Driver is Logged On, But Without a Passenger
If an Uber driver is logged into their driver app, it means they are on the clock and available to pick up passengers. Under these circumstances, if a driver gets involved in a crash, their insurance will still be in effect, but Uber will offer contingency coverage. This contingency coverage may cover liability and property damage, depending on the extent of the injuries and resulting expenses.
Insurance Coverage While the Driver is Logged On, and Has a Passenger
Uber offers up to $1 million of insurance coverage if a passenger gets involved in an accident when traveling from point A to point B via Uber. In other words, as soon as you step into an Uber vehicle for your trip, you may be covered by the company’s insurance.
Knowing these facts gives you the opportunity to understand whether you can file a claim after an Uber accident – and against who. Our experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyers can help you explore your options.
Can I Sue an Uber Driver for My Injuries After an Accident?
The first thing you need to know is that Uber drivers are not direct Uber employees. Instead, they are classified as independent contractors. Independent contractors are people who offer service to a company, but not as direct employees.
If you were riding in an Uber, and the negligent actions of the driver caused your injuries, then he or she may be responsible for covering your expenses. Under such circumstances, you may not be able to sue Uber directly. This happens because the company does not take responsibility for the negligent actions of their independent contractors. To obtain compensation for losses such as medical expenses or pain and suffering, you will need to file a claim against the negligent Uber driver and other liable parties who might have been involved in your car accident.
However, filing a personal injury claim is not automatic. Keep in mind you will need to prove various elements in court to file a successful lawsuit. Our car accident injury lawyers can assist you with every step and detail of this process.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim Against an Uber Driver
To file a personal injury claim against an Uber driver, you will need to show that their negligent actions lead to your injuries. These are the elements you will need to prove in court to obtain certain types of compensation from the liable parties:
- The defendant owed you a duty of care.
- The defendant breached their duty of care.
- Their breach of duty caused you harm.
- You suffered damages.
Proving these elements in court can allow you to obtain compensation for various types of losses you suffered. Remember that you have a limited time to file your personal injury lawsuit. You generally have up to two years to file your claim, or you can lose your chance of obtaining compensation. A skilled lawyer can help you navigate through the entire process.
Uber Car Accident Attorneys Handling Personal Injury Claims in Pennsylvania
Dealing with an injury after an Uber accident can be overwhelming, especially when you have no idea about what to do next. Your situation can worsen knowing your medical bills keep piling up for injuries caused by the negligent actions of another person. However, you do not have to go through this moment alone. The Reiff Law Firm can help you hold the liable parties accountable for your injuries.
Let our skill, knowledge, and dedication work for you during this difficult time. To learn more about your case in a free, confidential consultation with one of our Uber injury attorneys, call the law offices of The Reiff Law Firm today at (215) 709-6940, or contact us online.
