Ridesharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are quickly becoming popular forms of transportation. These services make it easy to get around or have a night out without worrying about driving yourself.
When you step into an Uber, the last thing you are probably thinking about is a wreck. Unfortunately, accidents can happen anytime you are on the road. But if you are a passenger, what does this mean for you? Are you covered by the driver’s insurance or by the rideshare company’s policy?
What if you are the driver? Are you covered by the company?
Since ridesharing is still relatively new, it can be tricky to navigate these questions. In this post, we discuss how both drivers and passengers should handle an Uber accident.
Rideshare Drivers are Regulated
It is important to know that rideshare drivers are regulated. There are a set of requirements they (and their cars) must meet in order to become a driver.
While regulations might vary between states, in Tennessee, an Uber must be a 4-door vehicle in good condition that is 15 years old or newer.
Drivers don’t have to get any special training to work for Uber or Lyft. But, they must carry a valid driver’s license, have at least 1-year of driving experience, and pass a background screening.
Rideshare drivers are required to have a personal insurance policy. Uber specifically states that “All partners must maintain their own insurance policy in accordance with state and local laws. In addition, Uber maintains automobile liability insurance on behalf of all U.S. partners.”
3 Types of Rideshare Insurance Policies
Uber and other rideshare services specify three types of driving situations. A different level of insurance kicks in for an accident that occurs during each situation.
- Scenario 1: An Uber driver is not logged on to the app or driving to pick up/drop off passengers. If a wreck occurs during this scenario, coverage will not be provided by the rideshare company. The driver’s personal insurance will cover the damages.
- Scenario 2: An Uber driver turns on the app and is in the process of driving to pick up a passenger. If an accident happens during this scenario, the rideshare’s insurance policy kicks in. This policy covers $50,000 for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for damaged property.
- Scenario 3: An Uber driver has the app on, picks up a passenger, and is in the process of dropping them off. If a wreck takes place during this scenario, the rideshare company’s insurance policy covers $1,000,000 per accident and $1,000,000 for uninsured and underinsured motorists.
Are Riders Covered in an Uber Accident?
In short, yes! The good news for passengers is that you are covered either by the driver’s insurance policy or by the rideshare company’s policy.
Unfortunately, the insurance claim can get tricky. As a passenger, you are not at fault for the accident. But, it can be complicated to prove who exactly was at fault. You might have to deal with a few insurance companies (both drivers and the rideshare company) when making your claim.
What to Do if You are a Passenger in an Uber Accident
Don’t worry, even though it can be complicated to file an insurance claim as a passenger in an Uber accident, it is possible. As a passenger, you are not at fault in the accident and you will be covered by either the driver’s or the rideshare company’s insurance policy.
But, you need to make sure you take the right steps following an accident.
Most importantly, make sure you are safe. If you are injured in an accident, the first step is to seek medical attention.
In addition to seeking medical attention, you should call the police to report the accident.
If you are not leaving the scene to get medical attention, follow these steps:
Step 1: Call the police to report the accident.
Step 2: After calling the police, get information from the drivers involved in the accident. Get their names, phone numbers, and insurance information.
Step 3: Seek legal help. As a passenger, you will be covered, but it can be challenging to file an insurance claim following a rideshare accident. An experienced auto accident attorney can help answer your questions and get you the payout you deserve.
We know that navigating a rideshare insurance claim can get complicated. We are here to help! Contact Perry H (Chip). Windle III today to discuss your specific case and the benefits you are entitled to.
The post What Happens if My Uber Gets in a Wreck? appeared first on Law Office of Perry H. Windle III.
