Rideshare services like Uber have transformed the way we travel around town. With a quick tap on your smartphone, you can have a reliable ride waiting for you within minutes. Yet, accidents can still happen, and when they do, the legal situation can become much more complex than a typical car accident due to the unique nature of rideshare services.
Once you begin navigating between multiple insurance policies, corporate involvement, and South Carolina law, it’s easy to feel lost or unsure of where to turn after an Uber accident. You may be left wondering: Was the driver logged into the app? Were they on their way to pick someone up, or in the middle of a trip? The answers to those questions affect everything about your potential recovery, especially who is responsible for covering your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
At David R. Price, Jr., P.A., we know how complicated these cases can be. We’re here to help you answer those important questions and handle the complicated process of insurance claims, legal paperwork, and negotiating settlements.
Why Uber Accidents Are Different
Uber accidents can be more complicated than regular car crashes because there’s often more than one insurance policy involved. What’s more, whose insurance policy is responsible depends on what the Uber driver was doing at the time of the accident.
All of this can make it confusing to figure out who, if anyone, is going to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. You may have to deal with Uber’s insurance company, the driver’s insurance company, or both. And unfortunately, none of them are likely to be quick to offer fair compensation without a fight.
That’s why it’s important to have a lawyer who understands how Uber accident claims work. At David R. Price, Jr., P.A., we know how to untangle these complicated cases and make sure the right parties are held responsible.
Who Is Liable for a Greenville Uber Accident?
Uber drivers are required to have personal auto insurance, just like any other driver. However, personal auto insurance policies may have exclusions for accidents that occur when a driver is logged into a transportation network like Uber. In such instances, transportation networks like Uber and Lyft are also required to carry their own liability insurance policies that cover accidents that occur when a driver is logged into their network. Because of all of these variables, determining which insurance policy applies after an accident can be complex.
Uber provides liability coverage for drivers involved in accidents while in “driving mode.” This mode refers to when the driver has the rideshare app activated, and is available to accept ride requests, but is not engaged in a prearranged ride.
Coverage for “driving mode” includes:
- A minimum of $50,000 per person for death or bodily injury;
- A minimum of $100,000 per accident for death or bodily injury;
- A minimum of $50,000 for property damage.
In cases where the Uber driver is transporting passengers or on their way to pick up passengers, the law requires that Uber’s coverage limit increase to $1 million for death, bodily injury, and property damage.
If you are an Uber passenger and another driver causes an accident, that driver’s private automobile insurance will be responsible for compensating you for any injuries sustained. In the event that the non-Uber driver is not insured, then transportation networks are required to provide uninsured motorist coverage that may apply if you’re involved in an accident caused by an uninsured third party while using an Uber.
At-Fault System and Uber Accidents in Greenville, SC
Since South Carolina follows the fault system, things can get fairly complicated if the car accident involves an Uber driver. In case the Uber driver gets in a collision with another driver, and if the Uber driver is at fault, then it will be either Uber or the driver’s insurance company that will be held liable.
However, in South Carolina, there is also a system of comparative negligence. This means that in case of an accident where more than one party may be responsible, the liability for damages is shared among those involved according to their level of fault. That means if the Uber driver is 40% at fault, he is only responsible for that much damage.
However, if the Uber driver is 100% at fault, then it will be Uber’s responsibility to pay for damages to the injured party.
How an Uber Accident Lawyer in Greenville Can Help
After an Uber accident, you’re probably dealing with more questions than answers. Who’s going to pay for your medical bills? What happens if Uber denies responsibility? Should you talk to the insurance company?
That’s where the expertise of an Uber accident lawyer like the lawyers at David R. Price, Jr., P.A. can be invaluable. Here’s how we can assist you through this tough time:
Investigate the Accident Thoroughly
We start by digging into the facts. That means gathering the police report, speaking to witnesses, reviewing dashcam and rideshare app data, and working with accident reconstruction experts if needed. The more we know, the stronger your case becomes.
Identify All Sources of Insurance Coverage
Uber has insurance but when it applies and how much coverage it provides depends on the driver’s status during the ride. We figure out whether you’re covered by Uber’s commercial policy or the driver’s personal insurance. We also look into any uninsured or underinsured coverage that may apply.
Deal With Insurance Companies for You
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line. We handle all communication with insurers, so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing or being pressured into a low settlement.
Calculating the Full Value of Your Claim
An injury can impact your life in more ways than just hospital bills. We work with medical experts and financial professionals to understand the long-term effects of your injuries, so we can demand compensation that covers everything you’ve lost – and everything you still need.
Negotiating or Litigating
Most cases settle – but if we need to go to court to get you compensation, we’re ready. At David R. Price, Jr., we have experienced trial attorneys with a strong track record of standing up for injured people in and out of the courtroom.
Compensation You Can Receive After an Uber Crash
If you were hurt in an Uber accident, you may be able to get money to help with your injuries and losses. Here are some types of compensation you might receive:
- Medical Bills: This includes hospital visits, doctor appointments, medicine, and any therapy you need to recover.
- Lost Wages: If you had to miss work because of the accident, you can be paid for the money you didn’t earn. If your injury keeps you from working the same job or hours in the future, you may be able to get money for that, too.
- Pain and Suffering: This means the physical pain and emotional stress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: If your car or belongings were damaged in the crash, you may be able to get those costs covered.
- Long-Term Disability: If the accident caused a permanent injury, you may receive extra compensation for the ways your injuries affect your life going forward.
- Emotional Distress: Serious accidents can cause anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues. You may also be entitled to compensation for these types of mental anguish.
Contact Our Uber Accident Attorneys in Greenville Today
If you’re feeling uncertain about what to do after an Uber accident, the team at David R. Price, Jr., P.A. is just a phone call away.
When you reach out to us, you take an important step toward protecting your rights and ensuring your voice is heard. Contact our Uber accident attorneys at 864-271-2636 for a free consultation. We are ready to discuss your case, explain your options, and provide clear advice on the best path forward.
