Uber is one of the most widely used methods of modern transportation, allowing individuals to catch a ride nearly anywhere and at any time of day. But as the popularity of this rideshare program has increased, so too have the number of serious accidents. Although Uber crashes are in many ways like any other automobile wreck, there are some important differences.
Navigating those differences and working through the claims process can be challenging, and you are sure to expect pushback from Uber and its insurance company if you get hurt. You need a trusted legal advocate ready to stand up for your rights and seek the compensation you need to move forward. Count on the Garden City attorneys of the Saul Law Firm, LLP.
The Most Common Types of Uber Accidents
Uber accidents can leave victims with serious and irreversible injuries. These are common types of crashes:
- Driving under the influence: New York law makes it illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications. The driver may consume drugs or alcohol before or even during the trip, endangering the lives of passengers and others.
- Distracted driving: Drivers use and update the Uber app to do their work. But cell phones, along with other distractions like talking to passengers or listening to music, can take the driver’s focus away from the road.
- Intersection wrecks: Many Uber accidents occur at or near intersections because of unsafe lane changes, failure to yield, and running stop signs and red lights. Violating a traffic law is strong evidence of negligence.
- Rear-end accidents: If the driver gets in a hurry or doesn’t focus, they could cause a rear-end accident with another vehicle. These wrecks often happen at stop signs and stop lights, and in heavy traffic.
- Weather-related crashes: Garden City weather can be brutal, and accidents are even more likely when Uber drivers are negligent. All drivers should adjust to weather conditions by slowing down and using more caution.
Who May Be Found Liable for an Uber Accident?
Claiming compensation for your Uber accident begins with identifying the parties who may be held responsible. These are some possible examples:
- The Uber driver: The most obvious place to begin is with the Uber driver. Your attorney will review the evidence to see if it points to unsafe driving behaviors.
- Uber: Uber (or more specifically, its insurer) may be liable for your injuries. There are various considerations such as whether the driver had passengers at the time of the wreck.
- Other Garden City drivers: The crash may not be the fault of the Uber driver. Other negligent motorists may have played a role in the accident.
- Passengers: Passengers in the Uber driver’s vehicle or another automobile could share blame. For instance, one of these individuals may have interfered with the driver’s safe operation of the vehicle.
- Automobile manufacturers: A design or manufacturing defect with one of the involved vehicles could also be responsible. Your attorney will conduct an investigation to determine if a manufacturer is liable.
- Other third parties: There are numerous other potentially liable third parties like mechanics, parts distributors, construction companies, and even bars that serve drunk drivers too much alcohol.
Damages You May Receive in Your Garden City Uber Accident Case
Every Uber crash is different in terms of the nature and amount of available damages. In most cases, however, victims can ask for:
- Medical bills, including for reasonably projected future medical needs
- Lost wages due to time missed recovering from the accident
- Decreased earning capacity if the victim is unable to work the same job as before the wreck
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages
- Coverage for the vehicle and personal property
- If extreme negligence or malicious conduct were involved, punitive damages may be available
Understanding Insurance Coverage After an Uber Accident
There are three general categories of accidents, all of which have important implications for whose insurance will cover the victim’s losses:
- If the driver was offline: In this scenario, the driver’s personal insurance policy will usually be liable. The driver must have coverage that meets New York’s minimum insurance requirements.
- If the driver was online and waiting for passengers: Uber covers its at-fault drivers who fall into this category for bodily injuries of up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- If the driver was en route to or actively driving passengers: The coverage limit increases to $1 million for bodily injuries and property damage, plus comprehensive and collision coverage for the Uber driver’s vehicle.
Contact Our Garden City, NY Uber Accident Attorney
No matter whose insurance is ultimately responsible for your injuries and property damage, you can expect resistance. Let our dedicated and compassionate legal team handle your claim so you can focus on recovering. Contact the Saul Law Firm, LLP to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions About New York Uber Accidents
Is it possible to sue Uber directly?
It is usually not possible to sue Uber because their drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees. Nonetheless, the company’s robust insurance is available to help victims pay for their injuries and other losses. We will work hard to get the highest possible insurance payout for you.
Is there a time limit to file an Uber accident lawsuit in Garden City?
Victims only have a limited amount of time to file an Uber accident claim, thanks to a deadline known as the statute of limitations. It is three years from the date of the accident. Filing after this deadline may completely foreclose the possibility of recovering compensation.
How can an Uber accident lawyer help me?
In addition to understanding the laws and rules involved in Uber accident lawsuits, an experienced attorney will be familiar with the intricacies of Uber’s insurance coverage. Your lawyer will also investigate the facts to determine liability, negotiate for a fair and reasonable settlement, and take your case to court if necessary to win the compensation you deserve.