Whether you take Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare, anyone you hire to drive you from point A to point B is just as susceptible to getting in a car accident as any other motorist. If you’re the passenger in an Uber at the time of an accident, understanding the insurance coverage you have and the compensation to which you are entitled is tricky.
The Driver Screening Process for Rideshares Like Uber
Rideshare companies contract with freelance drivers-for-hire who use their personal vehicles to transport passengers. This isn’t your typical taxi service and, for many people, Uber is far more convenient to their transportation needs and time constraints.
Because Uber is a business that relies on its contractors to safely move passengers, they’re putting a lot of trust in their drivers. Not just anyone can be an Uber driver, and the screening process to become a driver includes background checks to review driving records, identify sex offender status, screen for serious criminal charges, and scan public records databases. Every driver must have a valid driver’s license, registered vehicle, auto insurance, and a completed vehicle inspection.
What Is Uber’s Accident Policy?
If you’re a passenger in an Uber and are injured in an auto accident – whether your Uber driver is at-fault or another driver – you need to know who will be responsible for your medical bills and any damages.
Uber has an accident policy that covers the Uber driver up to $1 million in liability, most notably if the other motorist is uninsured or underinsured, or if there is a hit-and-run. However, this insurance only applies in certain scenarios outline in Uber’s car insurance policy. For example, the insurance policy covers far less in liability costs if the Uber driver is not logged into their Uber app, or if they are on the app but have not yet connected with a rider.
Get Compensation as a Passenger in an Uber Car Accident
If your Uber driver has the appropriate car insurance coverage in Michigan, you will need assistance in dealing with his or her insurance company, Uber’s insurance policy, the at-fault driver’s insurance, as well as your own car accident insurance. These are a lot of details to parse, and a Michigan auto accident lawyer is your best resource to help you determine where the fairest compensation will originate.
Insurance companies look out for themselves in all circumstances, even if you are a policy holder or clearly deserve compensation. And Uber can deny liability if one of their drivers crashes because the drivers are technically not employees but contractors.
Nevertheless, a car accident is a car accident – authorities must be called to the scene, police reports must be filed, and involved parties should receive medical attention. There will also be other evidence that you are entitled to, like the video footage from your Uber driver’s dash cam.
Were you injured in an accident while riding with an Uber driver, whether the Uber driver was at fault or another party was at fault? Find out where to go from here in this confusing situation. Contact the car accident lawyers at Thurswell Law for your free consultation to discuss your circumstances. We do not charge any fees unless you collect. Call (248) 354-2222 today.
