If you are one of the many people who are using rideshare services rather than taxis these days, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Uber and Lyft vehicles can be involved in accidents as well. But, what you may not know is how the process works if you are struck by a rideshare driver.
If you’ve been involved in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, it’s important to speak with an expert Louisville car accident attorney. We can help with the process of filing an Uber accident claim.
The process for an Uber accident will vary slightly than other claims due to coverage. Whether Uber pays or not will depend on whether the driver was on the clock at the time of the accident and who was responsible for the crash.
Figuring Out Liability and Coverage After an Uber Accident
With an Uber accident, there are several insurance policies at play, so that is why coverage can be a little more complex. If you were in the Uber as a passenger and another driver is the one who struck the Uber vehicle, then that driver’s insurance policy should be the one who steps up to cover all the damages and compensate you for your injuries.
In the event the accident was the fault of the Uber driver, it becomes more complex. This is why you should have a Louisville Uber accident attorney on your side. If the Uber was on the clock and struck your vehicle, then Uber’s commercial policy should step up to be responsible for the damages. If the Uber driver had no passengers, then his or her own personal auto insurance should be primary.
Making a Claim with Uber
Even in situations where liability is clear, don’t expect the process to go smoothly. Rideshare companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, so they are even less willing to pay out a claim under their policy. They typically push to have the driver’s own policy cover damages, which is not necessarily right depending on the facts of the accident.
Uber’s insurance carrier won’t make the process easy, and may even offer you a ridiculously low settlement offer just to get you to settle, if they offer anything at all. This small amount may be enough to cover your medical treatment, any lost income, and property damage if you were in another vehicle. It won’t compensate you for your pain and suffering, future medical treatment, and lost wages, etc.
With any personal injury claim, you should never settle until you are sure of your medical condition and whether there will be future treatment involved. Settling for a low amount could mean you are on the hook for
future treatment if your injuries haven’t resolved.
Contact a Kentucky Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an Uber driver,contact Harville Law Offices, PLLC at 502-272-9051 to set up an initial consultation. Let one of our skilled Kentucky personal injury attorneys help with filing an Uber accident claim and get you the compensation you deserve.