Uber's services have revolutionized modern travel. With just a tap on your phone, a ride is available at your fingertips, simplifying the way we move around. However, with convenience comes risks. Accidents can happen, and when they do, passengers may suffer injuries.
In this article, the most common injuries in Uber-related accidents, the process of determining fault, as well as the legal process for compensation.
Typical Injuries in Uber Accidents
Passengers in an Uber may suffer a variety of injuries, particularly when the vehicle is in an accident. Among the most common injuries are:
Whiplash: This neck injury is common in rear-end collisions, which can lead to significant discomfort. It can take time to develop symptoms, making it hard to immediately detect.
Fractures: High-impact accidents can lead to broken arms, legs, and ribs. They may need surgery or prolonged recovery time.
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: Back and spine injuries are common in high-impact crashes. These injuries may require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care.
Muscle Tears and Ligament Damage: Muscle injuries, including sprains and tears, often occur. Though less visible, they can cause significant discomfort.
Severe Scratches and Lacerations: Broken glass and debris often cause lacerations. Lacerations can lead to stitches, scars, and even infection.
Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident?
Understanding who is liable in an Uber injury case is often complex. Multiple parties might share the blame for an accident. The responsible party could be the Uber driver, another vehicle, or someone else.
The Uber Driver: 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 motorist causes the crash, they could bear the blame.
Uber’s Liability: Uber itself could be liable if certain conditions are met under their insurance policy. For accidents during rides, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million.
Other Third Parties: Third parties, such as government entities or manufacturers, may be liable. In such cases, lawsuits may involve multiple parties to determine responsibility.
Insurance Coverage for Uber Accidents
Uber provides different levels of insurance depending on the status of the trip. The coverage changes whether the driver is waiting for a ride, en route, or carrying passengers.
Driver Not Using the App: When the driver is offline, their personal insurance is responsible.
Driver Awaiting Ride Requests: 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.
Driver Picking Up or Transporting Passengers: While en route to pick up passengers or during the ride, Uber’s $1 million policy applies. The $1 million policy covers both liability and uninsured drivers, along with collision insurance.
Steps in uber attorney vs corrupt lawsuits an Uber Injury Lawsuit
In severe injury cases, legal action might be the best option if insurance fails. Legal action may result in financial recovery for hospital bills, lost income, and more.