If you were injured in an Uber vehicle accident in Lansing, Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other losses. Call Christopher Trainor & Associates today for a free consultation to learn more.
Rideshare travel has exploded in popularity in recent years, both in Lansing and nationwide. This increase inevitably leads to more motor vehicle accidents.
Following an Uber accident, you may be unsure of what action you can or should take to protect your legal rights and ensure an optimal recovery from your injuries. By working with an experienced Lansing Uber accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates, you can make a personal injury claim for damages against the person who caused the accident so you can be fairly compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Uber Insurance for Passengers
Uber passengers are generally covered by insurance in the event of an accident. Uber provides commercial insurance coverage for its drivers and passengers while they are engaged in providing rideshare services. The specifics of this coverage depend on the circumstances of the accident and the driver's status at the time, which are as follows:
During the Ride (Driver's App is On and a Ride is in Progress):
Liability Coverage: Uber provides liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage caused by the driver to third parties, which includes passengers in the Uber vehicle. This coverage typically includes up to $1 million per accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If an accident occurs and the at-fault party does not have sufficient insurance, Uber provides UM/UIM coverage to protect passengers. This coverage also includes up to $1 million per accident.
Contingent Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: If the Uber driver has both comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal auto insurance policy, Uber's insurance can provide additional coverage for physical damage to the driver's vehicle. This coverage is subject to a deductible (typically $2,500).
Driver is Available or Waiting for a Ride Request (Driver's App is On but No Ride is in Progress):
Third-Party Liability Coverage: If the driver is logged into the Uber app and available to accept ride requests but not currently transporting a passenger, Uber provides third-party liability coverage with limits of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
Driver is Offline (Driver's App is Off):
When the Uber driver is offline and not using the app, their personal auto insurance is the primary coverage. Uber's insurance does not apply in this scenario.
Steps to Take if You Are an Uber Passenger Involved in an Accident
After being involved in an Uber accident, you should:
Seek Medical Attention: Ensure that you and anyone else involved receive necessary medical treatment.
Report the Accident: Use the Uber app to report the accident. This initiates Uber's process for handling the incident. Call 911 to report the accident to authorities and request emergency responders.
Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
Collect Information: Gather contact and insurance information from all parties involved, including the Uber driver and any other drivers.
Consult a Lawyer: Consider consulting with a Lansing Uber accident lawyer who is experienced in handling rideshare accidents and can explain your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages.
By following these steps and understanding the coverage provided by Uber's insurance policy, passengers can better navigate the aftermath of an accident and seek appropriate compensation.
Common Reasons for Uber Accidents in Lansing
Uber accidents can occur for various reasons, often similar to the causes of other car accidents. However, the nature of rideshare services introduces some unique factors that can contribute to these incidents. Some of the leading causes of Lansing Uber accidents are:
Distracted Driving:
App Use: Uber drivers may frequently use their smartphones to navigate, accept rides, and communicate with passengers, which can divert their attention from the road.
Passenger Interaction: Engaging in conversations or responding to passenger requests can also distract drivers.
Fatigue:
Long Hours: Many Uber drivers work long hours or drive during late-night shifts to maximize earnings, leading to driver fatigue.
Multiple Jobs: Some drivers juggle multiple jobs, increasing the likelihood of fatigue and impaired driving performance.
Speeding:
Tight Schedules: To maximize the number of rides, some drivers may speed to reach their next passenger more quickly or complete more trips.
Passenger Pressure: Passengers in a hurry might pressure drivers to exceed speed limits.
Inexperience:
New Drivers: Newer Uber drivers may lack experience with the app, local roads, or handling the responsibilities of transporting passengers.
Route Familiarity: Inexperienced drivers might not be familiar with the best routes, leading to sudden stops or unsafe maneuvers.
Traffic Violations:
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Some drivers may commit traffic violations in their hurry to pick up or drop off passengers.
Improper Lane Changes: Frequent lane changes to reach destinations quickly can result in accidents.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance:
Neglecting Maintenance: Independent contractors are responsible for their vehicle's upkeep, and some may neglect regular maintenance, leading to mechanical failures.
Older Vehicles: Some drivers use older vehicles that may be more prone to breakdowns or malfunctions.
Adverse Weather Conditions:
Rain, Snow, Ice: Michigan's weather can be unpredictable, and wet or icy roads can increase the likelihood of accidents.
Reduced Visibility: Fog, snow, or heavy rain can reduce visibility, making it harder to drive safely.
Intoxicated Driving:
Driver Impairment: Although rare, there may be instances where Uber drivers operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Passenger Influence: Intoxicated passengers can also be a distraction or cause disturbances that impair the driver's ability to focus on the road.
Aggressive Driving:
Road Rage: Stress from traffic or dealing with difficult passengers can lead some drivers to engage in aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, honking excessively, or making unsafe maneuvers.
Preventative Measures Against Uber Accidents
Steps that can be taken to prevent Lansing Uber accidents include:
Safe Driving Practices: Encouraging safe driving practices and regular driver training can help mitigate some of these risks.
Vehicle Maintenance: Ensuring vehicles are regularly maintained and inspected for safety can prevent mechanical failures.
Monitoring and Reporting: Uber has systems in place for passengers to report unsafe driving behaviors, which can lead to corrective actions or the removal of drivers who consistently pose risks.
By understanding these common causes, both Uber drivers and passengers in Lansing can take steps to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure safer rides.
How to Report an Uber Accident to the Rideshare Company
Reporting an Uber accident to the rideshare company is an important step to ensure that the incident is documented and that you receive the necessary support and assistance. Here are the steps you should follow to report an Uber accident:
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention:
First and foremost, check for any injuries and seek medical attention if needed. Safety is the top priority.
Move to a safe location if possible to avoid further accidents.
Call Emergency Services:
Dial 911 to report the accident and request police and medical assistance if there are injuries or significant property damage.
Obtain a police report, as it can be a crucial piece of evidence for insurance and legal purposes.
Document the Accident Scene:
Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damages, and relevant road conditions.
Collect contact information from all parties involved, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
Exchange insurance information with the other drivers.
Report the Accident via the Uber App:
Open the Uber app on your smartphone.
Go to the "Help" section from the menu.
Select "Trip Issues and Refunds" and then choose the trip associated with the accident.
Select "I was in an accident" or a similar option.
Follow the prompts to provide details about the accident, including the time, location, and any injuries or damages.
Provide Detailed Information:
Be as detailed as possible when describing the accident. Include information such as the sequence of events, any visible damages, and whether any injuries were sustained.
Upload any photos you took at the scene if the app allows you to do so.
Contact Uber Support Directly (if necessary):
If you have trouble reporting the accident through the app or need immediate assistance, contact Uber’s support team directly.
Look for a customer service phone number or email address on the Uber website or the app.
Follow Up:
Keep a record of all communications with Uber and any responses you receive.
Follow up with Uber if you do not receive a timely response or if you need further assistance.
Consult with a Lawyer:
If you sustained injuries or significant damages, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced in rideshare accidents.
A skilled Lansing Uber accident lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation.
What to Expect After Reporting a Lansing Uber Accident
After you report your accident to the rideshare company, you will have to deal with:
Insurance Investigation: Uber’s insurance company may contact you to gather more information and investigate the accident.
Claims Process: You may need to file a claim with Uber’s insurance or the at-fault driver’s insurance, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Medical and Repair Costs: Keep track of all medical expenses, repair bills, and any other costs related to the accident for potential reimbursement.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the accident is properly reported to Uber and that you receive the support and assistance you need.
Need Help with a Lansing Uber Accident? Reach Out Now
The Lansing Uber accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates have the experience, skill, and resources you need to obtain maximum financial compensation for your losses. Give us a call at (248) 886-8650 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
