Ridesharing services like Uber have transformed how people move around Tampa. While they offer convenience and accessibility, accidents involving Uber vehicles are not uncommon. If you’re injured as an Uber passenger, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your health, legal rights, and any potential claims for compensation.
Although Uber doesn’t release specific accident data for Tampa, the general trend shows an increase in rideshare accidents as the service becomes more popular. According to a study from the University of Chicago, ridesharing services have contributed to a 2-3% increase in traffic fatalities in cities across the United States.
Whether the accident is a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, what you do immediately afterward can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if you’re hurt in an Uber accident and why consulting a Tampa Uber accident attorney can make all the difference.
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The first step after any accident is to ensure your safety and well-being. Check yourself and others involved for injuries. If anyone appears to need urgent medical help, call 911 immediately. Even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort right away, it’s still wise to seek medical evaluation as some injuries—such as concussions or internal injuries—may not show symptoms until hours or even days later.
Prompt medical attention serves not only to protect your health but also to document your injuries. These medical records will be a critical piece of evidence when pursuing a claim. Without this documentation, insurance companies may question the legitimacy or severity of your injuries. Make sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations and keep all medical records for your case.
2. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
Florida Statute § 316.066 mandates that accidents involving injuries or significant property damage must be reported to the police. Don’t let the Uber driver or other parties involved convince you otherwise. Filing a police report establishes an official record of the accident and includes essential details such as the identities of those involved, witness statements, and a preliminary determination of fault. While you can legally report an accident up to 10 days after an accident, in the case of Uber-related crashes it is essential to call the police and have them arrive at the scene.
When the police arrive, provide accurate and factual information about the accident. Avoid speculating or making statements that could be used against you later. Be sure to get the responding officer’s name, badge number, and the report number so you can request a copy later. Your Tampa Uber accident attorney will rely on this report to build your case.
3. Gather Information and Document the Scene
Collecting as much information as possible at the scene is vital. If you’re able, gather the following details:
- The Uber driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details.
- License plate number and vehicle information.
- Names and contact details of any other drivers involved.
- Contact information for any witnesses.
In addition to collecting information, take photos of the scene. Capture images of the vehicles, visible injuries, and any property damage. Photos of road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks can also be helpful. This documentation helps create a comprehensive picture of the incident, strengthening your case when reviewed by a Tampa Uber accident attorney.
4. Report the Accident to Uber
After an accident, you’ll need to report it to Uber. You can do this through the app by going to Safety > I was in an accident. If you forget in the moment of the crash, you can also do this later through the company’s website. This step initiates Uber’s internal accident review process and ensures that the company and its insurers are aware of the incident.
When reporting the accident, stick to the facts. Do not make any statements about fault or speculate on what caused the accident. If you’re unsure about how to present your case to Uber, consider consulting a Tampa Uber accident attorney before submitting your report. An attorney can guide you on what to say and what not to say to avoid inadvertently harming your case.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance can cover you even if you weren’t driving at the time of the accident. Although Uber’s insurance policies provide coverage for passengers, it’s still wise to notify your own insurance company. Doing so is typically required under your policy’s terms and ensures you have access to any additional benefits your PIP insurance might offer, such as medical payments. These extra benefits can be especially useful if there are any complications or delays with Uber’s insurance coverage.
When you report the accident to your insurer, be brief and factual. Avoid giving detailed statements until you speak with a Tampa Uber accident attorney. Insurers sometimes try to minimize payouts by getting claimants to make statements that could weaken their cases.
6. Consult a Tampa Uber Accident Attorney Before Settling
You may receive a settlement offer from Uber’s insurance company soon after the accident. While a quick payout may seem appealing, it’s often much lower than what you’re entitled to receive. Accepting a settlement prematurely can prevent you from pursuing additional compensation if you discover further medical issues or other damages later.
Always consult with a Tampa Uber accident attorney before accepting any settlement. An experienced lawyer will evaluate the offer and negotiate for a fair settlement that covers your current and future medical needs, lost wages, and other expenses. Having legal representation ensures you don’t settle for less than your case is worth.
How to Use Uber’s Insurance Policies After an Accident
If you were riding in an Uber and got into a crash, the amount of coverage for your injuries depends on the specific circumstances of the accident and Uber’s insurance policy at the time. Generally, Uber provides different levels of coverage based on the status of the ride and the driver’s involvement in the accident.
Uber’s Insurance Coverage for Passenger Injuries
When you’re a passenger in an Uber ride that’s involved in an accident, Uber’s commercial insurance policy usually applies. Here’s a breakdown of how much of your injuries might be covered:
- If the Driver Has Accepted a Ride or You’re Onboard:
If the Uber driver has accepted a ride or you’re already in the vehicle, Uber provides up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs. The coverage also includes:- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: This can provide coverage if the at-fault driver has no insurance or inadequate insurance. This is crucial if the other driver doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your injuries.
- Contingent Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Uber’s insurance may cover vehicle damage if the driver’s personal auto insurance doesn’t apply.
- If the Driver is Logged Into the App but Hasn’t Accepted a Ride:
In this scenario, the insurance coverage is lower. Uber’s contingent liability policy offers up to:- $50,000 per person for bodily injury,
- $100,000 total injury liability per accident,
- $25,000 for property damage.
- This insurance only kicks in if the driver’s personal auto insurance does not cover the accident.
- If the Driver is Not Logged Into the Uber App:
When the driver is not logged into the Uber app at the time of the crash, Uber’s insurance does not provide any coverage. In this case, only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
How Much Will They Cover?
As an injured passenger, you can seek compensation up to the policy limits, which means:
- Up to $1 million for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses if the ride was active.
- UM/UIM coverage also provides up to $1 million in cases involving uninsured or underinsured drivers.
While these amounts may seem substantial, they may not always be sufficient if your injuries are severe or if there are multiple passengers involved, as the total coverage has to be divided among all parties.
What to Do If Coverage is Inadequate?
If Uber’s insurance policy limits are reached or if your claim is denied, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation. Consulting with a Tampa Uber accident attorney can help determine the best course of action based on the circumstances of your case.
Why Expert Guidance from an Attorney Matters
Navigating an Uber accident claim on your own can be daunting. Uber and its insurers have experienced legal teams that will scrutinize your claim, making it difficult to negotiate without professional support. A skilled Tampa Uber accident attorney can level the playing field.
An attorney will handle all communications with Uber and their insurance company, gather and preserve evidence, and build a compelling case. They understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and know how to counteract those strategies effectively. With an attorney’s help, you can focus on your recovery while knowing your case is in capable hands.
Reach Out to Our Firm for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured as an Uber passenger, Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers is here to support you. With a history of success and decades of combined experience, our team understands the complexities of personal injury law and rideshare accident claims.
Our reputation for excellence is built on aggressive advocacy and personalized service. We know how to handle complex cases and are ready to put our expertise to work for you. From the moment you contact us, we’ll provide dedicated support and guidance every step of the way.
Don’t let an accident derail your life. Reach out to us for a free consultation. Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your appointment. Let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Justice to Injury Victims In Tampa Bay
Insurance companies can be ruthless. But, we are tougher. If you or a loved one sustained injuries in an accident because of another party’s negligence, let us help you. At Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers, we prioritize our clients and listen to their needs. The moment we start working on your case, we will provide relentless effort until we get the outcome you deserve.
For more information please contact us at Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with an attorney today.
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