Because of the business model of ride-share companies like Uber, securing compensation in accidents caused by their drivers can be complicated. Uber drivers are independent contractors, so their employment status at the time of the accident is a relevant consideration in any claim.
An Uber driver may be at fault for an accident under various circumstances, such as:
The Driver was Logged Off of the App – If the driver was not working for Uber at the time of the crash, then the company will disavow all responsibility. In cases such as this, you can seek damages from the driver’s personal insurance provider, as well as your own.
The Driver was Logged in Without an Assigned Ride – In cases when the at-fault Uber driver is logged into the app, they are driving in their capacity as an Uber employee. This is true even if they have not been assigned a passenger.
If this is the case, you may be able to seek financial recovery from Uber’s limited insurance policy. Their limited policy covers bodily injury at a limit of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident. It also covers vehicular and property damage at $25,000 per accident.
The Driver Had an Assigned Ride – If the Uber driver has an assigned ride or a passenger at the time of the crash, the company’s $1,000,000 dollar insurance policy is active to cover bodily injuries, property damage, and deaths. While your first course of action will be to seek financial recovery from the driver’s personal insurance provider, you can seek all additional damages from Uber.
Unsurprisingly, Uber will fight hard to deny any fault or responsibility for your accident or injuries. The company will claim that because their drivers are independent contractors, they are not liable for any accidents, injuries, or damage caused by their employees.
That is why it is so important to contact a leading Uber accident attorney to guarantee that your claim boasts the best representation possible.
At Shaevitz & Shaevitz Law Offices in Queens, New York, we have over 65 years of legal experience. Our dependable attorneys have a long history of winning ride-share accident cases and securing the maximum possible compensation. Call us today at 718-291-3400 or 718-LAW-SUIT to schedule your free consultation and discover what our premier legal team can do for you.