Getting into a car accident is bad enough, but when you’re driving for a rideshare company, like Uber, there’s a special process you need to follow to file a claim. Still, it never hurts to talk with an attorney to find out your best course of action. Uber may tell you one thing, while an attorney may know differently.
Depending on your circumstances at the time of the accident, you could be required to use your own insurance coverage. This guide will help you navigate the complexities and resolve your situation quickly.
Get the other driver’s information
Ask the other driver involved in the accident for their information, but don’t just take their word. Request to see their actual driver’s license and document their full name, license number, and even address. If you have to go through Uber’s insurance policy for compensation, it might be a little harder if the other driver gives you false information.
Along with their driver’s license, ask to see their insurance card and copy the information down, including the policy holder’s name, policy number, and date of expiration.
Seek medical attention
No matter what, make sure you see a doctor as quickly as possible, even if you believe your injuries are minor. You’ll want to get a healthcare professional’s opinion regardless. Since insurance companies will look for reasons to deny your claim, not getting medical attention will be a huge red flag. It will give the impression that you aren’t truly injured, and therefore don’t need to be financially compensated.
There are several reasons to see a doctor. First, if you skip medical care, there won’t be any reason to compensate you. Later on, your injury could worsen, and you’ll be on the hook for your medical bills. The second reason is that some injuries don’t show up right away, and you could have internal bleeding or a delayed feeling response because your body went into shock.
Document the scene thoroughly
Immediately take photos of the scene to use as evidence. If you’re too injured, ask a bystander to take photos for you. Never skip this part, thinking you can just take pictures of your car later. While that might be sufficient in some cases, you can’t predict how it will work for you.
Get witness contact information
If there are any witnesses, get their name and number. You might need to call a witness to make a statement on your behalf.
Get a police report
You’ll need a police report, whether the accident gets handled by your insurance or Uber’s policy. Sometimes police don’t come out unless there’s an injury, but if there’s extensive damage, stand firm on your request for a report – you’ll need it for your claim.
Report the accident to Uber
When you’ve seen a doctor and have gathered your documentation, it’s time to report the accident to Uber. Use the support system within the Uber app to make your report. You’ll need to include a lot of details, including the time of the accident, so be as specific as possible. Uber’s insurance will only cover you if the app was active at the time of the accident.
Know the limitations of Uber’s insurance policy
Car accidents are handled differently depending on the situation:
· When you’re driving a passenger, Uber’s insurance typically takes over for liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
· When you’re on the way to pick up a passenger, Uber’s insurance should cover your accident.
· When you’re waiting for a gig, it depends on your state’s laws, but usually, you’ll need to use your own insurance policy.
· When you are off the Uber app, you’ll need to rely on your perso` nal insurance coverage.
Consider getting extra injury protection through Uber
Additionally, Uber offers injury protection (optional) in 42 states that can be purchased separately to increase your coverage while driving for the company. While you may not think it’s necessary, you can’t predict the future. While it can provide coverage for injured passengers, it can also cover your own injuries.
Even if you think of yourself as a careful driver, it’s worth considering. Sometimes Uber drivers are injured without being involved in an accident, like the driver who was pepper sprayed by a passenger for no apparent reason.
Consult an attorney for advice
Dealing with an accident claim while driving for Uber can be difficult – don’t leave anything to chance. Consulting an attorney will give you the answers you need to make the right moves.