If you were hurt in a rideshare service accident with Uber in Decatur, Georgia, you have legal options. You can seek maximum compensation from the responsible party and/or their insurance policy company.
However, filing a claim is complicated and time-consuming. It's important to consult with an experienced rideshare accident lawyer. An Uber accident attorney can explain your rights, options, and the claims process.
At Marks Law Group, we have extensive experience representing clients who have been injured in Uber crashes. An Uber accident lawyer from our law firm will take on the insurance company and make sure that you, our client, get the compensation you deserve. Let us handle your case and protect your legal rights. Call us today at (678) 251-9309 or chat with us online for a free case review.
Common Causes of Uber Accidents
Uber accidents can happen for many reasons, often involving negligence by the rideshare driver, other motorists, or external factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving by Uber Drivers: Uber drivers often rely on their phones for navigation, ride requests, and communication with passengers. This distraction can lead to delayed reactions, missed signals, and dangerous driving behaviors.
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: To complete more trips and increase earnings, some Uber drivers may speed or drive aggressively. This increases the risk of losing control, failing to stop in time, or causing serious collisions.
- Failure to Follow Traffic Laws: Ignoring traffic signals, failing to yield, or making unsafe lane changes can lead to accidents. Whether due to inexperience, impatience, or distractions, these violations put passengers and other drivers at risk.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Uber requires vehicles to meet certain safety standards, but drivers are responsible for maintaining their cars. Worn brakes, faulty lights, or tire issues can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
- Third-Party Driver Negligence: Not all Uber accidents are caused by the rideshare driver. Other motorists who drive recklessly, run red lights, or fail to yield can be responsible for crashes involving Uber vehicles.
When an Uber accident occurs, determining the cause is crucial for identifying liability. If you were injured due to an Uber driver’s negligence or another party’s reckless actions, you may have grounds for a legal claim.
Steps to Take After an Uber Accident in Decatur
It’s essential to take the right steps after an Uber accident to protect your health and legal rights. Here's what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. Prompt medical care also helps document the extent of your injuries for your claim.
- Report the Accident to Uber and Law Enforcement: Contact Uber to report the accident through the app or their customer support line. Additionally, file a police report so there is an official record of the incident. This is important for both insurance purposes and any legal action that may follow.
- Gather Evidence, Including Photos and Witness Statements: Take detailed photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles. If possible, obtain witness statements and contact information. Collecting this evidence early strengthens your case and helps establish liability.
- Contact an Uber Accident Lawyer to Evaluate Your Claim: An experienced Uber accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex insurance process and ensure you’re not taken advantage of by insurance companies. They’ll evaluate your case, gather additional evidence if necessary, and guide you through the legal process.
By following these steps, you can protect your health and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries after an Uber accident in Decatur.
Can You File a Claim After an Uber Accident in Decatur?
Uber accidents can be more complicated than standard car crashes due to multiple parties and insurance policies involved. If you were injured in an Uber-related accident, you may have the right to seek compensation, but determining who is liable can be challenging.
How Uber Accidents Differ from Regular Car Accidents
Unlike traditional car accidents where liability falls on the at-fault driver, Uber accidents involve an additional factor—the rideshare company’s insurance coverage. Uber provides different levels of insurance based on the driver’s status at the time of the crash, which can affect how claims are handled.
Several parties may be liable for injuries in an Uber accident, including:
- The Uber Driver – If the driver’s negligence caused the crash, their personal insurance or Uber’s coverage may apply.
- Uber’s Insurance – Uber offers up to $1 million in liability coverage, depending on whether the driver was active on the app or transporting a passenger.
- Another Driver – If another motorist caused the accident, their insurance policy would be responsible for damages.
- Other Liable Parties – In some cases, vehicle manufacturers, government entities, or rideshare companies may share liability.
If you were injured in an Uber accident in Decatur, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance or Uber’s coverage. Because these cases often involve multiple insurers and complex liability issues, consulting a lawyer can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Uber Accident?
Determining liability in an Uber accident depends on who caused the crash and whether the Uber driver was actively working at the time. Multiple parties may share responsibility, and insurance coverage varies based on the driver’s status.
If an Uber driver causes an accident due to speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior, they may be held liable for damages. Depending on whether they were logged into the Uber app, their personal insurance or Uber’s coverage may apply.
If another motorist causes the accident, their insurance policy should cover the damages. However, if they are uninsured or underinsured, Uber’s insurance may provide some coverage if the Uber driver was active on the app.
Uber’s Insurance Coverage vs. the Driver’s Personal Insurance
Uber provides insurance coverage for drivers, but the level of protection depends on their status at the time of the accident:
- App Off/Off-Duty: The driver’s personal insurance applies. Uber provides no coverage.
- Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber provides limited liability coverage if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the accident.
- En Route to a Ride or Transporting a Passenger: Uber’s $1 million liability policy applies, covering injuries and damages.
How Liability Changes Based on the Uber Driver’s Status
Uber’s insurance only applies when the driver is logged into the app and actively working. If they are off-duty, their personal insurance is solely responsible. If they are in between rides, Uber’s limited coverage may apply. For passengers, Uber’s $1 million policy offers protection in most cases.
Because liability in Uber accidents can be complex, injured parties may need legal assistance to determine who is responsible and pursue compensation.
What Compensation Can You Get From an Uber Accident Claim in Decatur?
Victims of Uber accidents may be entitled to compensation for the financial and personal impact of their injuries. The amount and type of compensation depend on the severity of the accident, liability, and available insurance coverage.
- Medical Bills and Rehabilitation Costs: Injuries from Uber accidents can require extensive medical treatment, including emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation. A claim can help recover these expenses, ensuring you are not left with the financial burden of medical bills.
- Lost Wages Due to Injury Recovery: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover lost income. This includes wages lost during recovery and potential future earnings if your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
- Pain and Suffering Damages: Beyond financial losses, accident victims can seek compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. These damages account for the lasting impact of the accident on your daily activities and mental well-being.
- Property Damage Claims: If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may be eligible for compensation to repair or replace them. This includes damage to your car, phone, or other valuable items affected in the crash.
Because Uber accidents involve multiple insurance policies and complex liability issues, consulting an attorney can help ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
How a Decatur Uber Accident Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer can guide you through a complicated Uber accident claim and help you seek the compensation you deserve by:
- Investigating the Accident and Determining Liability: A skilled attorney will gather key evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage, to determine who is responsible. Establishing liability is crucial in holding the right party accountable, whether it’s the Uber driver, another motorist, or Uber itself.
- Negotiating with Uber’s Insurance Company: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney will handle negotiations, ensuring you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement. They will fight for financial compensation that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Filing a Lawsuit if a Settlement Is Not Reached: If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf. This legal action increases the pressure on insurers to offer a reasonable amount.
- Representing You in Court if Necessary: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer will advocate for you in court, presenting evidence and arguments to support your claim. Their experience in handling Uber accident cases can be key to achieving a favorable outcome.
Working with an Uber accident lawyer can improve your chances of recovering full compensation while reducing the stress of handling legal and insurance matters on your own.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After an Uber Accident in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after an Uber accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you must file your claim within two years or risk losing your right to seek compensation.
However, the timing can vary based on the circumstances of the case. If you’re seeking compensation for property damage, the same two-year limitation applies. It’s important to act sooner rather than later to ensure all evidence is collected and the claim is filed within the required timeframe.
If the Uber driver’s negligence caused the accident or if another driver is at fault, having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side can help ensure you meet all deadlines and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
How Does Uber’s Insurance Work in a Georgia Injury Claim?
Uber’s insurance coverage in Georgia can be complex, and it varies depending on the status of the Uber driver at the time of the accident. Here's a breakdown of how Uber’s insurance works in an injury claim:
When the Uber Driver is Available for a Ride or on a Ride
If the Uber driver is actively driving a passenger or on the way to pick up a passenger, Uber’s primary liability insurance applies. This coverage provides the following:
- $1 million in liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in case the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate insurance.
This means that if you’re injured in an accident while the Uber driver is en route to a passenger or driving a passenger, Uber’s insurance will likely cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
When the Uber Driver is Available for a Ride but Not on One
If the Uber driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request but has not yet accepted a ride, Uber’s insurance coverage is more limited. At this stage, Uber provides:
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person and $100,000 per accident.
- $25,000 in property damage coverage.
This coverage applies only if the Uber driver is involved in an accident and is deemed to be at fault. It can be more challenging to recover full compensation for severe injuries under this level of coverage.
When the Uber Driver is Off-Duty or Not Logged into the App
If the Uber driver is not logged into the app and is not accepting or driving any passengers, Uber’s insurance does not apply. In this situation, you would need to pursue a claim through the driver’s personal insurance or possibly seek compensation from other at-fault parties involved in the accident.
Liability in Uber accidents depends on whether the driver was at fault, the status of the driver at the time of the accident, and other factors. If the Uber driver is at fault, Uber’s insurance will generally cover your claim up to the limits outlined above. However, if another driver is at fault, you may need to pursue their insurance or Uber’s uninsured/underinsured coverage.
Uber’s insurance process can be complicated, and insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. An experienced Uber accident lawyer can help navigate the complexities, negotiate with Uber’s insurance, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
What Should I Do if Uber Denies My Claim?
If Uber’s insurance denies your claim, it can feel frustrating, but there are steps you can take to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
- Review the Denial Reason: First, carefully review the denial letter to understand why your claim was rejected. Common reasons for denial include insufficient evidence, disputes over liability, or claims not meeting policy requirements. Understanding the reason for the denial is the first step in addressing it.
- Gather Additional Evidence: If the insurance company denies your claim due to a lack of evidence, you may need to gather more supporting documentation. This could include additional witness statements, medical records, accident reports, or traffic camera footage.
- Appeal the Decision: Most insurance companies allow you to appeal a denial. This process typically involves submitting additional information or clarifying existing details that may have been overlooked. A rideshare accident attorney can help you prepare a strong appeal by presenting your case in the best light.
- Consult an Experienced Uber Accident Lawyer: If your claim is denied and an appeal does not resolve the issue, consulting with an experienced Uber accident lawyer is crucial. A lawyer can help investigate why your claim was denied, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and explore legal options, such as filing a lawsuit if necessary.
- Consider Legal Action: If all else fails, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit to recover damages. A lawsuit may prompt the insurance company to offer a fair settlement or allow a judge to rule in your favor.
An Uber accident lawyer can guide you through the denial process and help you determine the best course of action to ensure you receive compensation.
What Is the Average Uber Accident Settlement Amount?
The average Uber accident settlement payout is under $15,000. That’s because most Uber car accidents don’t result in severe injuries. A minor injury results in a small Uber car accident settlement.
Luckily, most car crashes result in either no injuries or minor injuries that heal quickly. Either of these personal injury claims isn’t worth much.
However, if you’re severely injured, your auto accident claim may be worth well over Uber’s insurance limit. That’s the case, especially if the Uber driver was available or was waiting for a ride request. Here, the bodily injury limit is $50,000 per person. Further, if the Uber driver was at fault and you had surgery because of your injuries, your case will be worth over $50,000.
However, it's difficult to exceed Uber’s insurance limit, especially if the Uber driver was en route to pick up passengers or during trips. That’s because only a few personal injury claims are worth over Uber’s $1 million insurance limit, in this case. For Uber to pay you the $1 million limit, you’ll need to have had a serious injury, like a brain injury, or several surgeries. However, wrongful death cases are often worth more than Uber’s $1 million liability limit.
Uber accident settlements are often confidential, so you should hire an experienced car accident attorney who can value your case properly.
How Often Do Uber Drivers Get in Accidents?
Rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, have made 11 billion trips in the United States since their launch in 2009. Uber made over 2.3 billion trips in the U.S. between 2017 and 2018.
According to research, the rate of traffic deaths increased by 2-3% since the introduction of Uber and similar rideshare services. Sadly, that’s over 1,100 deaths. In 2017, there were 49 Uber fatalities and in 2018, there were 58 Uber-related fatalities.
Contact Our Experienced Decatur Uber Accident Lawyers for Legal Advice!
If you have been involved in a Decatur Uber accident, you may seek compensation for your injuries. The experienced personal injury attorneys at The Marks Law Group will fight to help you recover the compensation you deserve to cover your Uber accident-related expenses, such as lost wages, medical and rehabilitative costs, and property damage.
Also, our dedicated and experienced car accident lawyers will seek financial compensation for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, and probable permanent disfigurement, disability, or loss of enjoyment of life. If your Uber driver was extremely negligent, for instance, if he or she was driving under the influence of alcohol or driving while texting, we will also be able to recover you punitive damages.
Further, if your family goes through the tragic loss of a loved one in an Uber crash, the skilled legal team at Marks Law Group is ready to fight to win you the financial settlement you deserve for your mental trauma, and final medical costs, funeral expenses, and lost wages. We know no amount of money can replace a lost family member, but we believe the fight for justice is worth it.
To schedule a free initial consultation, call us today at (678) 251-9309, or chat with us online to learn how we can help.