After a car accident, you likely have many questions about your next steps. Of course, there are the obvious immediate steps at the accident scene. But knowing how to navigate the aftermath of an Uber accident presents unique challenges. From understanding your rights to seeking professional legal assistance, Munley Law will equip you with the knowledge to manage the situation effectively.
If you are involved in an accident and need an Uber accident lawyer in Wilkes-Barre, call Munley Law.
What To Do After an Uber Car Accident
Whether you are a passenger, driver, or another vulnerable road user, knowing the steps to take to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and prepare for any necessary legal action after an Uber accident is crucial.
Call 911 and Ensure Safety
Immediately following the crash, check yourself and others involved for injuries. Call 911 for medical attention. Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, get checked out, as some injuries do not appear quickly. Keep a record of all treatment received.
You also need to report the accident to the police, as this will provide an official account, which will later be needed for insurance and legal purposes.
Document the Scene and Exchange Information
Once you’ve assessed the situation, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damages, street signs, and any contributing factors like road conditions. Include the accident’s time, date, and exact location.
At this time, you’ll also want to collect the names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration information from all parties involved.
If you were a passenger, ensure you get details from the Uber driver and any other drivers involved.
Get Witness Information
Like any car accident, an Uber accident is one driver’s word against another. Because of this, you’ll want to get the contact information of any witnesses. Their unbiased account can make a significant difference in your claim.
Contact the Insurance Company But Do Not Admit the Fault
You will need to inform your insurance that the accident occurred. Uber drivers will need not only Uber insurance but also auto insurance.
However, when informing your insurance company, do not admit fault. Admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as such can affect your insurance claims and legal standing.
Get an Uber Accident Attorney
Depending on the accident’s complexity and the extent of your injuries, connecting with a lawyer experienced in Uber-related accidents can be crucial. They can guide you through insurance claims and potential legal proceedings, protecting your rights.
What happens directly following an Uber accident is critical for ensuring your safety and setting the stage for future legal filings or insurance actions.
Understanding Insurance Coverage From Uber Driver Accident
One of the biggest challenges after a rideshare accident is navigating the various forms of insurance coverage that come into play. While medical bills are piling up, you are likely wondering: Who will cover this?
You have a right to fair compensation through your insurance or another party. Figuring out how to recover maximum compensation will ultimately come down to liability and the Uber or Lyft driver app status during the collision.
- Driver’s App Off – Personal Insurance Applies: If the Uber driver involved in the accident was not logged into the Uber app, their auto insurance is the primary coverage. Because they were not acting as an independent contractor for Uber at the time of the wreck, Uber will have no stake in liability.
- App On, Waiting for a Ride Request – Limited Liability Coverage: Uber provides limited liability coverage when the driver is logged in to the app but hasn’t accepted a ride request yet. This typically includes specific bodily injury amounts per person and accident and property damage coverage. However, this coverage does have limitations. Pennsylvania Uber accident attorneys can guide you through the nuances of limited liability coverage and what it means for your case.
- En Route to Pick Up Passengers or During Trips – Comprehensive Coverage: The most extensive coverage applies when the driver is en route to pick up passengers or during trips. This includes liability coverage, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage.
- Passenger’s Perspective – Secondary Coverage: Uber’s insurance is secondary passenger coverage. This means it comes into play after exhausting personal insurance options. Uber’s policy may cover medical expenses and lost earnings in case of injury, subject to limits.
Third-Party Claims
If you’re a third party affected by an Uber driver’s accident, like another motorist, pedestrian, or property owner, you can file a claim against Uber’s liability insurance. The coverage depends on the driver’s status during the accident.
Reporting and Claims Process
After an accident, it’s essential to report the incident to Uber immediately. Uber’s insurance provider typically handles claims, but understanding the coverage limits and stipulations is vital to ensure you are given the compensation you deserve.
Further, you must know that insurance requirements and coverage may vary by state. In Pennsylvania, for instance, specific minimum coverage limits are mandated by law.
If you feel your legal rights are questioned after a ridesharing accident, an Uber accident attorney from Munley Law can help.
Involved in an Uber Accident In Wilkes-Barre and Unsure of the Next Steps? Call Munley Law.
The aftermath of an Uber accident in Wilkes-Barre involves a series of crucial steps: ensuring immediate safety, documenting the accident, understanding insurance coverages, and considering legal counsel, especially in complex situations. This comprehensive approach ensures that your rights are protected and that you are adequately prepared for any insurance or legal challenges that may arise.
If you or a loved one were involved in an accident with a rideshare driver, contact Munley Law for a free consultation.
Our experienced team is well-versed in Pennsylvania’s laws and Uber’s policies, offering the support and advocacy you need to navigate this challenging time. Contact Munley Law today for a consultation and take the first step towards securing your rights and interests after an Uber accident.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
1170 PA-315
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
(570) 399-0406
