Every time you get behind the wheel of a car, you’re at risk for an accident, but Uber drivers are even more at risk, because they drive more often than others, and because they spend a lot of time driving to unfamiliar places. You also might work very long hours, late night and early morning, with tight deadlines while trying to make customers happy.
All of this can combine to lead to an increased risk of accidents on the road. Unfortunately, even when those accidents aren’t your fault, Uber drivers can have troubles getting compensation. Learn about what happens with Uber accidents in California, what happens when a driver gets into an incident like this, and why you need a lawyer.
Uber Accidents and Compensation
Did you know that your personal auto insurance technically doesn’t cover you while you drive for Uber? Since you’re using your car for business purposes, you are technically required to carry business car insurance. In addition, many drivers are under the mistaken idea that Uber will cover them in the event of an accident.
The truth is, while Uber does have a fund to pay out for driver accidents, they consider drivers to be independent contractors. This means they don’t carry state worker’s compensation insurance, and they require you to maintain insurance against your own liability.
Rideshare Insurance
When you drive for a ridesharing service like Uber, you technically need to be covered by a special kind of insurance called rideshare insurance. Unfortunately, it can be very complicated navigating the system to get this kind of insurance—it’s not the same as personal auto insurance. This can leave you out in the cold if you have an accident.
Property Damage and Injuries
When you’re in an accident involving just property damage, your insurance company is there to cover you. You’ll have to pay your deductible, and if you’re not at fault this will likely (though not always) be reimbursed. Make sure that both your insurance company and the other party’s insurance company are made aware.
If there are injuries involved in the accident, the very first thing you need to do is contact an attorney. Good personal injury lawyers work on contingency, meaning they’ll never charge you for a consultation and they won’t charge you a fee if you don’t win the case. As your medical bills mount, an attorney can help you to arrange to take care of them.
In addition, your case will proceed differently whether you are waiting for a request, you’re en route to pick up a passenger, and after you’ve picked up the passenger. While waiting for a request, Uber isn’t responsible. While driving to pick up a passenger, Uber might try to deny responsibility. When you have a passenger, Uber’s insurance can kick in.
If you need more advice or help filing a suit against Uber for an accident you’ve suffered, call the auto accident attorneys at Gruber Law Group for help today.