As of 2022, over 90 million Americans use the ridesharing app, Uber as a convenient means of transportation. The app is most widely used in big cities and has been particularly useful for decreasing accidents caused by drunk driving.
The unfortunate trade-off for this convenience is that you’ll be putting your safety in the hands of a stranger. Uber drivers are not required to do any specialized training and can begin driving after satisfying a few basic requirements:
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Be legally allowed to drive
- Watch a short training video
Research shows that rideshare apps have caused a 3% increase in traffic accidents since 2011. Uber vehicles were involved in 97 fatal crashes between 2017 and 2018. If you were injured or lost a loved one due to an Uber accident, an Oklahoma uber accident attorney can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can I Get Compensation After an Uber Accident?
If you were injured in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical treatment, expenses, and lost wages. An experienced auto accident attorney can determine your chances of success and provide an estimate of the damages you may be entitled to.
How Does Insurance Work for Uber Drivers?
Uber promises that every trip is insured. The company maintains commercial auto insurance on behalf of each of its drivers. This provides coverage to both drivers and passengers in the event of accidents in specified circumstances.
As long as the driver’s Uber app is active, they are protected by Uber’s commercial auto insurance policy. If the accident happened while the driver was awaiting a ride request, Uber’s insurance will cover up to $100,000 in damages. If the accident happened while the driver was en route to pick up a passenger or during a trip, Uber’s insurance will cover up to $1,000,000 in damages.
If the driver is offline or the Uber app is off, Uber’s insurance will not cover the accident. In these circumstances, a victim is only able to claim under the driver’s personal insurance policy.
Are Uber Drivers Employees of Uber?
Drivers are not employees of Uber. Ridesharing drivers (and other workers in the gig economy) are considered independent contractors. This is an important distinction to make in the context of a personal injury claim. The usual principles of vicarious liability do not apply to independent contractors. This means that Uber Technologies, Inc. cannot be held liable for any injuries sustained in Uber accidents.
Can I Claim Against the Uber Driver?
In addition to Uber’s commercial auto insurance, drivers are still required to maintain their personal insurance policies. If the accident is not covered by Uber’s insurance, you will be able to claim against the driver’s personal policy If the accident is covered by Uber’s insurance, your personal injury attorney will attempt to recover from both policies.
Hire an Oklahoma Auto Accident Lawyer to Claim Damages After an Uber Accident
Due to the recency of ridesharing services, there is some confusion regarding the legal implications of an Uber accident. A knowledgeable Oklahoma auto accident attorney can offer guidance and support in seeking compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact us to get started.