Who pays for an Uber accident?

If you are injured in an Uber accident, this is what you need to know:

Uber, Lyft and other ride sharing apps are growing in popularity in Philadelphia, South New Jersey and elsewhere. These apps allow passengers to conveniently and cheaply get where they need to go.

What happens when you are injured in an Uber accident?

In 2013, Uber instituted a one million dollar insurance policy covering all drivers and passengers. This policy was extended to all Uber X drivers recently. Uber drivers are required to maintain their own car insurance, and Uber’s policy acts as an umbrella policy in case the driver’s personal insurance does not cover all injuries/damage. Coverage under Uber’s policy depends on a few specifics.

Scenario 1: The driver is driving his vehicle for personal reasons and is not available to pick up passengers when the accident occurs. In this scenario, the driver’s personal auto policy will apply and Uber’s policy does not come into effect.

Scenario 2: The driver does not have an Uber passenger, but was available to pick up passengers when the accident occurred. In this scenario, the driver’s personal auto policy will be the primary insurance that will cover injuries and damage. Uber’s contingent insurance policy (up to $100,000 and $25,000 for property damage) will act as a secondary insurance if the driver’s personal auto policy does not cover all the injuries/damage stemming from the accident.

Scenario 3: The driver is transporting an Uber passenger when the accident occurs. In this scenario, Uber’s one million dollar insurance policy will apply.

One thing to keep in mind is that Uber drivers are not Uber employees. They are independent contractors who are connected to users through Uber. Because of this, Uber claims the company is independent of the driver’s actions and seeks to avoid liability. If you are injured in an Uber accident, no matter who was at fault, it is important to be represented by a qualified attorney who knows how to go after all insurance policies available.

Philadelphia Uber accident lawyer Michael F. Niznik handles personal injury matters on a contingent basis. That means that you do not pay any money for our firm to work for you. We obtain our fee out of the money that we recover from the insurance company on your behalf.

If you have been injured in a Philadelphia Uber accident, contact the Law Office of Michael F. Niznik today at 267-589-0601 for a free consultation.