What Happens if You Are Injured by an Uber Driver?
Ridesharing apps have become a major part of everyday life, including in Alabama. However, accidents can happen even when you’re using a service like Uber to get around. If you end up injured by an Uber driver—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or occupant of another vehicle—you may face medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other burdens.
Understanding how Alabama’s laws and Uber’s insurance policies work can be key to getting the compensation you deserve.
Alabama Is a Fault-Based State
Alabama is a fault-based state when it comes to car accident claims. This means that the driver (or another party) who caused the accident typically pays for the damages. If you were injured by an Uber driver, you’d likely file a claim against the driver’s insurance or possibly Uber’s insurance if certain conditions apply.
At the same time, Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule. Under this harsh doctrine, if you share even 1% of the blame for the collision, you could be barred from receiving any compensation at all. That makes it especially crucial to show that the Uber driver (and not you) caused the accident. A skilled lawyer can help gather evidence to prove someone else’s liability.
When Does Uber’s Insurance Apply?
Uber provides various levels of insurance coverage, but which applies often depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash:
- App off: If the driver wasn’t logged into the Uber app when they caused the accident, the driver’s personal auto insurance is usually your main source of compensation. Uber’s policy typically doesn’t cover anything in these circumstances.
- App on, waiting for a ride request: If the driver was active on the app but hadn’t picked up a passenger or accepted a ride yet, a lower level of insurance coverage may apply. In many cases, Uber offers some coverage for injuries and property damage if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t fully cover your losses.
- App on, en route to pick up a passenger or during a trip: If the driver was on the way to pick someone up or had a passenger in the car, Uber usually provides a higher level of coverage. This can reach up to $1 million or more, depending on the incident’s details. This coverage often applies in addition to the driver’s own policy.
It’s important to note that insurance companies, including those tied to Uber, may look for ways to reduce or deny claims. They might argue about the driver’s status at the time of the crash or dispute who was at fault.
Steps To Take After an Accident With an Uber Driver
If you’ve been hurt by an Uber driver, consider the following actions:
- Call the police: A police report can be vital evidence.
- Seek medical care: Some injuries might not show symptoms right away, so it’s wise to get checked.
- Gather information: Exchange contact and insurance details with the Uber driver. If you can, take photos of the scene and talk to any witnesses.
- Avoid admitting fault: Even an offhand apology might be used against you under Alabama’s contributory negligence rule.
- Speak with a lawyer: An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of claims involving both Uber’s and the driver’s insurance.
Taking these steps can help you protect your legal rights and interests.
Contact an Uber Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you face serious injuries and high medical bills, consulting a lawyer is usually a smart move. A personal injury attorney can handle the paperwork, deal with insurance adjusters, and protect your rights under Alabama law. They can also argue against any attempt to blame you for the accident so you aren’t barred from recovery.
Get in touch with an experienced attorney today for a free consultation.
Contact the Alabama Car Accident Attorneys at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers. Call us at (205) 206-5088
Contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We serve Shelby County, Madison County, Montgomery County in Alabama, and its surrounding areas.
We are located in Birmingham, Huntsville & Montgomery.
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Birmingham Office
880 Montclair Road, Ste 300,
Birmingham, AL 35213
(205) 206-5088
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Huntsville Office
116 Jefferson St. Suite 207
Hunstville, AL, 35801
(256) 666-4660
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Montgomery Office
7 Clayton St, Suite 200,
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 513-2110