After an Uber accident, multiple parties can be liable for damages. Uber drivers are required to have personal car insurance, as well as Uber insurance. Determining who is responsible for damages depends on the status of the Uber driver on the app at the time of the crash.
Uber App is Turned Off
If the Uber app is turned off at the time of the crash and the driver is off duty or driving for personal reasons, they are treated like any other driver on the road. In this case, Uber’s insurance policy would not apply as the driver was not working at the time of the accident. You would need to go through the driver’s personal insurance.
Uber App is Turned on and Driver Can Receive Ride Requests
When a driver is logged into the Uber App, they are available to accept passengers, meaning Uber insurance policy does apply in the event of an accident. Since the driver has not accepted a ride, limited coverage is available in the event of an accident:
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person
- $100,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident
- $25,000 in property damage coverage per accident
In the event of an Uber accident when the driver has not accepted a ride request, their personal insurance will be the main source of compensation. If your damages exceed this amount, you can recover additional compensation from Uber’s insurance policy.
Uber App is Turned on and Driver has Accepted a Ride or Ride is in Progress
When an Uber driver has accepted a ride or has a passenger in the car, the full $1 million Uber insurance policy can be made available to you under varying circumstances. This policy covers injuries or damages to all drivers and passengers that are injured in the accident whether the Uber Driver or another driver caused the accident. It also provides coverage if an uninsured motorist causes the accident. You will still use the driver and their insurance policy as your main source of compensation, but Uber’s insurance policy will be available if your damages exceed this amount or in the event an uninsured driver caused the collision.
Uber accident claims can be complicated. The knowledgeable New York City Uber accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm are available to answer any questions you have regarding your Uber accident, who is responsible, and what damages can be recovered for your injuries.