Why You Need a Lawyer After an Uber Accident in Kentucky
In the United States, Uber provides 40 million rides each month. While the number of Uber users continues to grow, the ride-sharing company has been involved in a number of accidents that occurred while users were inside the vehicles of Uber drivers.
Between 2019 and 2020, the company’s US platform registered 101 victims who died in car crashes.
Figuring out what to do in the aftermath of an accident can be hard. It can be even more confusing if it happens in an Uber because the legal steps or claim processes are more ambiguous.
In this post, we discuss the steps you need to take to protect yourself, the rights you have, and the settlements you may be entitled to. Let’s start with the primary question a person is faced with in the event of an Uber accident:
What Should I Do After an Uber Accident?
If you were involved in an accident while riding an Uber, it can be traumatic and unsettling. However, it’s important to remain as calm as possible and take the right steps.
1. Prioritize Safety
Immediately after an accident, prioritize safety. Check if everyone involved is okay. Don’t scramble out of the vehicle immediately but check for oncoming traffic before stepping out. If anyone was hurt, call 911 for emergency medical care. Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s still best to call for help because they may be more serious than they initially appear.
2. Collect Proof, the Contact Information of Witnesses, and Driver Information
If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details so you can reach out to them later when filing your case. In addition, it’s a good idea to document the damage and your injuries. Take photos, collect documentation that proves the details of the accident, and keep copies of your medical records, bills, and receipts. This will help your lawyer create a case for you later on.
If the damages are worth $500 and more, you need to call the Kentucky State Police so you can file a Civilian Collision Report.
You’ll also need to undertake the same steps that you would after any car accident. Exchange insurance information, write down the license plates of all the vehicles, and get the contact information of all drivers involved.
3. Hire a State-licensed Uber Accident Lawyer
Once you’ve tended to any medical injuries and have as much relevant documentation as possible, look into hiring an Uber accident lawyer who is licensed to practice in Kentucky.
Do not talk to any insurance personnel before consulting an Uber accident lawyer. This will prevent you from settling for a lower claim than what you deserve. Insurance claims agents will try to get the best deal possible from their end, but it’s important that you know your rights before accepting any offers.
An Uber accident lawyer will have encountered previous Uber-related cases like yours, giving him or her valuable experience in how to handle your case and get you the best results possible. An Uber accident lawyer can help you:
- Negotiate a fair settlement that covers your medical bills and other expenses like replacing or repairing your vehicle
- Establish a strong case
- Navigate legal protocols
- Handle communication with the courts and insurance company
At the end of the day, an Uber accident lawyer ensures that you have adequate legal representation so you are properly compensated for any losses, injuries, or suffering caused by the accident.
What You Need To Know if You Were Involved in an Uber Accident
As a company, Uber has considerable insurance coverage that’s worth $1 million. This encompasses liability and underinsured/uninsured drivers. Because of this, accident victims may receive higher compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, as well as pain and suffering due to the accident.
If your accident entails any of the following, you may be entitled to substantial compensation:
- You are a motorist or passenger who was injured in a collision caused by the ridesharing driver.
- You are a ridesharing driver and you sustained injuries because of another motorist.
- You were injured while riding an Uber. It doesn’t matter which driver was at fault.
If you were involved in an Uber accident, you need to file a case without delay. Postponement can make it harder to establish your case and get a favorable outcome.
Can Uber Sue Drivers?
Yes, Uber can sue the driver depending on the circumstances.
In the state of Kentucky, Uber is considered a TNC or a Transportation Network Company. Hence, Uber is required to have liability insurance for their drivers. This means that if the driver is at fault, Uber can pursue a lawsuit against the driver to recover damages.
However, it's important to note that the driver can also file a counter-lawsuit if they believe that the company contributed to the accident. Navigating these legal matters can be complex, so it's essential to work with an experienced Uber accident lawyer in Kentucky to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Is Uber Liable For Their Drivers' Actions?
Figuring out the answer to this question can be tricky. Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors — meaning they aren't technically considered Uber employees. This can make it challenging to determine who is responsible for road accidents.
Uber has liability insurance coverage for their drivers to protect passengers and other drivers in the unfortunate event of an accident. In Kentucky, Uber is required by law to have at least $50,000 in liability coverage for bodily injury or death per person, not less than $60,000 in total liability coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage.
There are also circumstances where Uber may be held liable for a driver's actions. For example, if Uber was aware or should have been aware that a driver was not fit to operate a vehicle, they could be held responsible for any accidents that occur as a result of negligence.
How To Claim Compensation
Kentucky is recognized as a no-fault state. Drivers in the state are required by law to initiate a claim with their insurance company. This enables them to receive compensation for medical expenses and other financial damages resulting from accidents in accordance with their individual insurance policies.
In addition to hiring a lawyer, you must also promptly report the accident to Uber. You can do this through the Uber app or by contacting their customer support team. Uber has insurance coverage for passengers and drivers involved in accidents, and reporting the accident to Uber will start the claims process.
Once you've reported the accident to Uber, they will begin an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and who was at fault. Based on the outcome of the investigation, Uber's insurance will cover the damages and injuries suffered by the passengers and drivers involved.
Conclusion
Find Uber accident lawyers at Bahe Cook Cantley & Nefzger. As personal injury lawyers, we have the experience, knowledge, and skills necessary to provide you with professional legal representation and the best outcome possible.
We can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf while ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Accidents are unpleasant and unplanned but with our assistance, the experience can be less overwhelming, confusing, and stressful. Consultations are free so send us a message and let’s talk.
