Last updated on May 12, 2022
You need a ride across town or home from your local bar. You pull out your smart phone and tap on the Uber icon. Within a few minutes, a car shows up and whisks you off to your destination. The price? Well, that depends on how many miles the trip is, how long it takes, and how many ride requests Uber is getting when you call. But what happens if your driver is in an accident along the way? The price of your ride may have just grown exponentially. Depending on the situation, you may even be forced to legal action against the responsible party to recoup the damages you suffered.
If you have recently been involved in an accident with a designated Uber vehicle, you probably have a number of questions concerning your rights and options, such as:
- Are Uber driver’s insured?
- Will I be covered under their insurance?
- How much will I be able to collect?
- Should I contact an attorney?
For answers to these and many other questions concerning legal issues with ride-sharing services, contact the Seattle rideshare accident attorneys at Pendergast Law. Our knowledgeable team is well-versed in emerging technologies such as Uber, and how they may impact your life. Call 888-539-9211 to schedule a consultation today.
How Safe Is Uber?
That’s a complicated question. Uber drivers must pass a background check and a vehicle safety inspection. This, however, does not ensure the driver is a good driver. While Uber does not accept drivers with DUIs or bad driving records, there is little in the way of driver training. While Uber is a popular and convenient service, accidents involving the vehicles are complicated. Call a Seattle car accident lawyer at 888-539-9211 for help.
What Happens If My Uber Driver Is In An Accident?
This is where things get tricky. Uber drivers are independent contractors driving their own vehicles. When a driver has the Uber application (app) turned on, but does not have a ride request, he is insured on his own personal auto insurance plan. Once he gets a ride request and accepts it, he is covered by Uber’s $1 million liability plan. Uber’s coverage extends through to when the rider is dropped off and the driver terminates the ride. The potential conflict is that while the driver has the app turned on but doesn’t yet have a ride request they are essentially working for Uber. If the driver’s personal insurance company found out they were in an accident while using the app, both they and Uber could deny coverage.
Should I Contact An Attorney For My Uber Car Accident?
Since laws concerning Uber, Lyft, Sidecar and other Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) vary by city and state, it would be wise to contact the Seattle passenger injury attorneys at Pendergast Law if you are ever involved in an accident while riding in or with an Uber vehicle. Call 888-539-9211 to find out the particular laws for the Seattle area and what your rights and options are.