Before getting in that Uber, you will want to know what happens if you are in an accident and who is at fault. Our Hartford Uber accident lawyer will fight to get the compensation you deserve.
How Does Uber Work?
Uber is a driver-for-hire service where you can order a ride directly through the app.
You enter your current address or location, as well as your destination’s address. You will have to enter your payment details electronically, where you will pay the ride fee and tip. Once you order your ride, you will see the fee, the driver’s details (name, photo, etc.), and the make, model, and color of the driver’s car. After the ride, you can rate the driver.
Since everything is done centrally on one app, ordering an Uber and paying the driver is simple. But there are other crucial details to remember. Uber freelances their drivers who use their vehicles. This means the drivers are not company employees, and Uber does not own the vehicles. If you are in an Uber accident, it can be difficult to put fault on the right person.
Uber Accident Statistics and Facts
If you have not taken an Uber yet, you may wonder if this convenient rideshare service is safe. Here are some important statistics to note:
- Since Uber was developed, there has been a 3% rise in car accident fatalities
- Between 2017 and 2018, there were 97 fatal Uber crashes (though the driver was the victim 21% of the time)
- 90% of Uber accidents happen in cities (though many also happen in rural areas)
- Between 2019 and 2020, 101 people were killed in Uber accidents
Keep in mind that these statistics are not for the Hartford area.
Are Ubers Safe?
Uber reports that 99.9% of rides were safe in 2019 and 2020, making Uber generally safe. But there are many aspects to consider, such as if Uber properly screens its drivers.
On their website, Uber screens its drivers before they start driving passengers, and they conduct yearly screenings. All passengers have their identities confirmed, and a background check will show any driving violations, impaired driving, and past violent crime.
But there are some details that Uber is not confirming, such as how far back they search for driving violations and other crimes. And even if your driver has a clean record, they could still drive recklessly and get in an accident.
What to Do After an Uber Accident
While Ubers are generally safe, it is essential to know what to do in an Uber accident and when to hire an accident law firm.
Call for Emergency Services
The first step is always to call 911. If you or the driver were injured, dispatchers will send an ambulance your way.
Even if there are no major injuries, you should also call 911 and have police arrive on the scene. The police will file a report for you, noting the details of the accident and collecting the Uber driver’s information. If you cannot contact the police on the scene, you can always fill out a report later.
Seek Medical Help
Safety is key, so always seek medical help even if your injuries are not severe. Some injuries do not arise immediately, so it is essential to visit your doctor or go to a clinic as soon as you can. You should also urge your Uber driver to do the same.
Even if there are no injuries, you should keep all your medical bills and deliver them to an Uber accident lawyer in Hartford. Your attorney will document these bills as evidence and will add them to your claim.
Report the Accident
If the police were not on the scene, you can still report the accident. All car accidents in Connecticut must be reported within a specific time frame. You must report minor car accidents within ten business days, though you must report serious car accidents within five days.
You should also report the accident to Uber. Uber has a claims form located on their website. You should also fill out this form with the help of your Hartford Uber accident attorney.
Gather Evidence
Once you have the police report and medical bills, you and your Hartford Uber accident lawyer can gather any other crucial evidence. This can include pictures, videos, and witness statements. This evidence will be helpful since your Uber accident lawyer in Hartford will use this proof in your claim.
Hire an Uber Accident Lawyer
A Hartford Uber accident attorney knows car and Uber accident laws in Connecticut. They also possess the skills and experience to negotiate with insurance companies. This means a skilled lawyer will get you the compensation you deserve.
Who is Liable for Your Injuries in an Uber Accident?
Compared to public transportation and taxis, Uber does not have strict regulations. As stated previously, Uber drivers are self-employed and use their vehicles. All Uber drivers also need an auto insurance policy (though Uber does provide commercial auto insurance when drivers are logged into the app).
Understand that if you were an Uber passenger and your driver was in an accident, Uber is liable. Uber’s insurance will cover you if their driver was at fault. If another driver caused your accident and they have minimal insurance coverage, Uber’s auto insurance will cover you.
Because of this, filing an Uber accident is similar to filing any other car accident–your Hartford Uber accident lawyer will file a claim with Uber’s insurance. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you get a fair settlement.
Why You Need a Hartford Uber Accident Lawyer
Even though Uber is liable for your injuries, you may not know what to do after an Uber accident. This is when you want to seek help from an Uber accident law firm. A skilled attorney will assist you every step of the way and will represent you from day one.
Communicate With Uber and Their Insurance
Negotiating with insurance companies can be stressful. Do not worry–your Uber accident lawyer in Hartford will handle all communication between the driver, Uber, and the insurance company. Your attorney is experienced in these negotiations, ensuring you can get your compensation in a timely manner without going to court.
Recover Damages
After negotiating with insurance companies, your Hartford Uber accident attorney will help you recover your damages. These damages include economic and non-economic costs, maximizing your settlement.
Protects Your Rights
As an Uber passenger, you have rights. If you try to negotiate with Uber and their insurance company alone, you may not receive the settlement you deserve. Your Hartford Uber accident lawyer will inform you of your rights and help you file your case while seeking maximum compensation.
Damages You Can Recover
Uber passengers in a car accident can receive two types of damages: economic and non-economic. The type and amount you receive depend on the accident and any injuries.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are any monetary losses. These often include medical expenses, lost wages, and damaged property.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages are not monetary losses but are still vital to your recovery. Common examples include mental anguish, reduced quality of life, and missed opportunities.
Representing Hartford Uber Passengers
Were you a passenger in an Uber and were in an accident? Do not handle Uber and insurance companies alone.
Our Hartford Uber accident lawyer will ensure you receive the maximum compensation. We have experience negotiating with all insurance companies, specifically Uber’s commercial auto insurance. We will always inform you of your rights and will walk you through all of the steps of the claims process.
If you’re looking for a Hartford Uber accident attorney, contact us anytime for a free consultation.
