Getting into a car accident is always chaotic and confusing. When an accident involves an Uber vehicle, though, it’s even more so. If you are seriously injured, you could face thousands of dollars in medical costs. You may not know if insurance will cover a passenger after an accident, or even which insurance company to ask. If an Uber driver hit you while you were in another vehicle, there are still questions pertaining to which insurance company will provide you coverage.
While an attorney can advise fully on how to claim compensation after an Uber accident, below are some general guidelines to follow.
If You Were Injured as a Passenger
If you are in an Uber as a passenger and become injured in an accident, Uber carries $1 million in liability insurance to cover the cost of your injuries.
If the driver of the other car was at fault for the accident, you will go through their insurance company first. You are bound by the driver’s insurance policy limits, and most drivers in South Carolina purchase only the minimum insurance requirements. When this is the case, that coverage likely will not be enough to cover the full cost of serious injury. At that point, you can go through Uber’s insurance to collect the balance of compensation needed.
There are certain injuries that bar you from claiming compensation through Uber’s insurance. This is when an Uber driver intentionally hurts you, such as during an assault. Uber classifies their drivers as independent contractors and, as such, cannot be held liable for the driver’s intentional actions.
If You Were the Other Driver
If you’re another driver on the road and you get into an accident with a negligent Uber driver, there are two options for claiming insurance. The one you choose will depend on the circumstances surrounding the crash.
If the Uber driver was carrying a paying passenger at the time of the accident, you can claim compensation through Uber’s $1 million liability insurance. On the other hand, if the Uber driver was not working at the time or was even in between fares, you will likely have to go through the driver’s insurance company to claim compensation.
Speak to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Rock Hill
All car accident cases present their own challenges. Accidents that involve Uber drivers, however, are particularly unique and incredibly complicated. Regardless of if you were a passenger or another driver, you will likely have to deal with multiple insurance companies. They will all try to blame each other, while your claim gets held up in the process. Don’t let this happen. Call an experienced Rock Hill car accident attorney who can help make things right.
If you’ve been in an accident involving an Uber, you’re likely very confused. At the Elrod Pope Law Firm, P.A., we will help you understand the full amount of compensation you are entitled to, and where to turn to get it. We’ll speak to the insurance companies on your behalf and fight for your right to get a fair settlement as quickly as possible. Call us today at (803) 599-3080 for your free consultation to learn about the many ways we can help you with your claim.
