With Uber providing over 6 billion trips globally in 2021, unfortunately, not all rides conclude with a safe passenger drop-off. Data from Uber's safety report for 2019-2020 reveals a significant number of Uber-related fatalities and injuries, making it crucial for Texas drivers and passengers to understand the process of Uber accident claims and settlements.
If you have sustained injuries or tragically lost a loved one in an Uber-related accident, understanding the complexities of claiming compensation from Uber is paramount. This guide will shed light on the legal pathways you can explore to ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.
Whether or not you can claim compensation from Uber largely depends on factors such as the cause of the accident and the Uber driver's status during the incident.
Uber typically doesn't bear any responsibility for an accident involving an off-duty Uber driver. If the driver isn't active on the Uber app during the time of the accident, it's unlikely that you'll be able to recover compensation from Uber.
The extent of Uber's liability often depends on the driver's status on the app. If the driver is available but hasn't received a ride request, Uber provides limited coverage, including bodily injury liability and property damage coverage per accident.
However, if an Uber driver is in transit to pick up a passenger or actively transporting one at the time of the accident, Uber's coverage increases significantly, providing up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage. If you can demonstrate that the Uber driver was at fault for the accident, you should be able to recover compensation from Uber up to these policy limits.
If the accident wasn't caused by the Uber driver, you'll typically need to claim against the at-fault driver. Still, Uber's uninsured motorist coverage could potentially cover your losses if the other driver lacks adequate insurance.
In case of injuries due to an Uber driver, you can either settle your case or take it to court. Settling your claim means accepting a predetermined compensation amount for your accident-related losses, in return for relinquishing any further claims. The advantages of settling include faster compensation and reduced uncertainty. However, if the offered settlement seems unfair, proceeding with a lawsuit could be your best bet. Consulting a Texas car accident attorney can provide clarity on the most beneficial course of action.
The compensation you can expect largely depends on your specific losses, despite Uber's substantial third-party liability coverage. Compensation typically covers medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. The larger insurance policy from Uber ensures that there is ample coverage in the event of serious injuries or fatalities, exceeding the limits of what an individual's auto insurance would typically cover.
The intricacies of Uber car accident claims, particularly due to the involvement of third-party insurance coverage, necessitate legal assistance from an experienced car accident attorney. If you're a Texas resident involved in a rideshare accident, seeking advice from a Texan legal expert can provide invaluable guidance to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.
