Have you been hurt in an accident that involves Uber? Learn how you can change your awful situation into a manageable one if the unfortunate happens.
Imagine one day riding in an Uber, and then an unexpected crash happens. This is the reality on the roads today, but knowing what to do after the incident can make all the difference.
While some accidents might appear minor, others may have catastrophic consequences. Despite Uber drivers exercising extreme caution when driving, mistakes do happen. Whether as a result of negligence or from auto issues, car collisions are possible.
Let’s explore all that you’re required to do following an Uber accident. From calling for help to gathering evidence, this guide will leave you well-equipped to handle the aftermath of an Uber collision.
Ensure Safety First
Accidents often happen, and when they involve Uber, it can be a real blow to the system. But you don’t need to panic. Your first priority after the crash should be to check yourself out. Take a quick look at your body and if you notice any signs of pain or weird sensations, don’t ignore them.
Inspect your surroundings and carefully move to a safe distance away if you can. Stay inside your vehicle if the road isn’t clear. Wear your seatbelt as you patiently wait for help to arrive. If the accident resulted in severe injuries, call the police and explain the circumstances of the incident.
Document the Incident
Many things can happen before the police arrive at the scene. Use your smartphone to capture photos of everything, including:
- The details of the other car
- The accident scene itself
- The Driver details
- Witness information
- Road and weather conditions
Although the police report will collect and record the relevant information, it’s often not enough to build an ironclad case. In a car crash claim, strong evidence determines who’s responsible in an Uber accident.
Seek Medical Attention
After moving to safety and documenting the scene, you need to focus on getting things back on track. Even if you believe you’re okay, it’s always better to consider getting checked by a medical professional after the collision. Adrenaline can hide severe injuries, that’s why having a thorough assessment is key to ruling out anything serious.
In addition, keep receipts of all bills related to the incident. This will be valuable, especially for insurance purposes and any legal issues that might show up later.
Contact Uber
After the crash, report the incident via Uber’s website or app. You’ll need to share all the necessary details about the crash, including location and the time. This information will help to create an official account of the collision within Uber’s system.
The company can then opt to initiate investigations against the driver. Also, the report forms a paper trail that can be used when civil litigation becomes necessary. Get a copy of their insurance policy to help you in the legal process.
Contact Your Insurance
Even if Uber’s coverage is primary, it’s necessary to inform your personal car insurer about the accident. They’ll guide you on how to move ahead with filing a potential claim later.
When reporting the incident to Uber, share the following details:
- The location and time of the accident
- The number of your insurance policy
- A detailed account of the accident
- The other driver’s contact information
If the other driver was responsible for the crash and their insurance doesn’t cover everything, you might be required to sue Uber’s insurance. They tend to have high coverage limits, but it’s advisable to know your respective policy details.
Consult an Attorney
Uber accidents often raise unique legal matters. In many cases, ordinary car accident lawyers are unable to handle such issues. If you’ve been seriously hurt, it’s wise to pursue legal remedies using competent lawyers. Here’s what an auto accident attorney can do:
Handle Insurance Claims
Uber car crashes can be complex, unlike other traditional auto accidents. Uber has different levels of coverage, based on the accident type and the driver’s state. Establishing which policy is applicable to you can be frustrating. Uber accident lawyers are well-equipped to handle this challenging legal system to ensure unclear terms or undetected loopholes don’t harm you.
Fight For Your Rights
Uber is a hugely profitable company with a team of highly skilled lawyers. Facing them on your own can be scary. Fortunately, Uber’s legal team will defend your rights and ensure the company doesn’t take unfair advantage of you.
Handle Third Party Claims
Sometimes, the accident may occur from other factors away from the Uber driver. If the vehicle breaks down or if it’s owned by third parties, an Uber accident lawyer can have an in-depth look into the incident to help optimize your compensation.
Ease Your Legal Burden
In its wake, an accident can cause physical and mental strain. Handling paperwork and negotiations involved in Uber court cases can be extremely exhausting. An Uber accident attorney can navigate all legal matters linked to your case, lifting this load off your shoulders and letting you focus on your recovery.
Passenger Safety
Before hopping on a ride, cross-check the drivers’ details in your app. That’s a simple way of confirming you’ve requested the right car. Plus, as a no-brainer, always fasten your seatbelt. Should a car crash happen, it will serve as your initial line of defense. Refrain from making phone calls while driving because any distraction can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Conclusion
Uber has emerged as a fast and convenient way of transporting passengers. While the company helps people to travel easily, it also adds to the number of car crashes. Every Uber accident claim is unique, and there isn’t any sure formula for establishing the accident’s claim value. The best way to do that is to seek an Uber accident attorney with exemplary reputation. You can count on Husain Law + Associates — Houston Car Accident, Personal Injury and Truck Accident Lawyers, P.C. to help you pursue justice for your case. Contact our dedicated team for a free consultation, and get a realistic view of what your claim is likely to be worth.
