Passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists who suffer injuries in rideshare accidents can file Uber accident claims to recover up to $1 million in compensation for their losses. Although the rideshare companies provide liability coverage for injuries and deaths that are caused by these accidents, however, recovering compensation is not automatic. When Uber accidents result in injuries, understanding how to submit a claim for damages can ensure victims are able to pay for their medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.
Uber Accident Claims
Rideshare accidents that cause injuries and deaths are on the rise. In 2018, Uber’s U.S. Safety Report showed more than 36,000 fatal rideshare accidents across the country. According to a University of Chicago School of Business study, rideshare accidents have increased traffic deaths by 2-3% since 2011, contributing to 1,100 fatalities per year. In busy, congested cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, rideshare accident rates are even higher.
The University of Chicago researchers gathered data from the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) and compared it with launch dates for Uber and Lyft in specific cities. They quickly noticed a pattern – most cities had an increase in fatal car accidents after rideshare companies launched. Uber, based in San Francisco, launched its mobile application in 2011.
With more people using rideshare services to escape the stress of navigating traffic, Uber passengers, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists, are involved in more accidents each year.
Reporting an Uber Accident
Uber passengers, as well as non-passengers like drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists who are involved in Uber accidents, should report the accident directly to Uber by filling out an accident form found on Uber’s website. This may be handled by phone, online, or by using the Uber help app on a cell phone. Once the accident is reported, Uber, as well as Uber’s insurance company, will contact the person who submitted the report. The Uber accident form should be filled out and submitted as soon as possible following the accident. Waiting can cause complications and delays in Uber accident claims.
If injuries occur because of a rideshare accident, the victim should seek medical attention right away. Uber accident claims are paid through Uber’s insurance company. When Uber accident claims are filed, the insurer will require proof of the victim’s injuries, a medical diagnosis, and medical treatments. The rideshare accident should also be reported to the police, so the insurer will have an official accident report on file. If the insurance company denies an Uber accident claim, a Chicago rideshare accident attorney will need documented proof of accident details and injuries to pursue a legal claim for damages.
Although Uber provides insurance coverage to pay for victim injuries and deaths, the insurer may be hesitant to admit that the Uber driver is at fault for the accident. The company may attempt to place blame on other motorists, pedestrians, malfunctioning traffic signals, or other parties who were involved in the crash. In some cases, insurance companies will even try to minimize the victims’ injuries to reduce their payout to the accident victim.
If the insurance company is reluctant to settle your accident claim or offer you a fair amount for your losses, it may be necessary to hire a rideshare accident lawyer. An Uber accident attorney can gather evidence to help prove liability for the crash and the severity of your injuries when negotiating with the insurance company. If negotiations are unsuccessful, your lawyer will take your personal injury case to court to ensure you receive compensation for your losses.
