Whether you’re a passenger or a driver, enduring an car accident is a devastating experience, and you may not know where to turn for help. If your accident involved an Uber driver, you’ll want to speak with an experienced Uber accident attorney right away. We can help you learn more about the company’s complex insurance coverage policies that may provide up to $1 million in compensation for accident victims.
Understanding Uber’s insurance coverage is essential for accident victims in Colorado Springs. You may be entitled to compensation from the company or the driver’s private insurance policy. Uber’s insurance policies are structured into distinct phases, each with specific coverage parameters based on whether the driver is logged into the app, has accepted a ride, or has passengers on board.
Phase 1—App On; No Ride Accepted
During Phase 1, when an Uber driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, the insurance coverage offered is limited. Uber drivers are required to maintain their own personal insurance policy, which can fill the gaps not covered by Uber during this phase. Uber provides contingent liability coverage during this period, but it’s only activated if the driver’s personal insurance does not apply.
The coverage limits during Phase 1 are typically $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. But this contingent coverage does not include collision or comprehensive coverage.
The driver’s personal insurance plays an essential role during Phase 1. Uber drivers must rely on their personal auto insurance, which acts as the primary line of defense. Personal insurance ensures that drivers are protected in scenarios where Uber’s contingent coverage may not apply, such as minor accidents or incidents involving non-commercial claims.
Phase 2—Ride Accepted; En Route to Pickup
Phase 2 of Uber’s insurance coverage begins when a driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up the passenger. During this phase, the coverage becomes more substantial compared to Phase 1. Uber provides liability coverage up to $1 million, which includes bodily injury and property damage.
In Phase 2, Uber also offers contingent collision and comprehensive coverage, but these benefits only apply if the driver has personal collision and comprehensive coverage. The deductible for this contingent coverage is typically $1,000. Both the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s insurance might cover a third party.
Phase 3—Passenger in the Vehicle
Phase 3 provides the most extensive insurance coverage as it begins when an Uber passenger is on board. During this phase, Uber maintains a $1 million liability insurance policy to cover bodily injury and property damage for passengers and third parties involved in an accident.
Under phase 3, Uber offers uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage to protect the driver and passengers in the event of an accident caused by a driver who lacks adequate insurance. This ensures that all parties are financially protected, regardless of the circumstances. Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage is available, as long as the driver has it on their personal policy, with a $1,000 deductible. This aspect of Uber’s insurance ensures that passengers and drivers can still receive compensation for injuries and damages when the at-fault party is inadequately insured.
Uber’s Liability Insurance Explained
Uber’s liability insurance has serious implications for all parties involved in an accident.
What Uber’s Liability Insurance Covers
Uber’s liability insurance is designed to cover third-party bodily injury and property damage resulting from an accident involving an Uber driver. The limits and application of Uber’s liability insurance vary significantly across the three phases. In Phase 1, the contingent liability coverage is capped at $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance does not cover the incident.
In Phases 2 and 3, the liability coverage limit increases to $1 million, providing more substantial protection. This higher limit applies when the driver accepts a ride request while transporting passengers. It covers third-party bodily injuries and property damage that result from an accident caused by the Uber driver.
Limits of Uber’s Liability Insurance
- Phase 1: Coverage limits are typically $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Phase 2: The driver, passengers, and other parties may be covered up to $1 million in costs.
- Phase 3: The driver, passengers, and other parties may be covered up to $1 million in costs, even if the accident was caused by an uninsured/underinsured motorist.
Consider Legal Assistance
An experienced Uber accident lawyer can help clarify the intricacies of Uber’s insurance coverage, identify applicable phases, and evaluate the extent of coverage available. Your attorney will clarify the viability of a lawsuit, the potential for success, and the strategies required to achieve favorable outcomes. They will also assess the situation, gather necessary evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
If a settlement cannot be reached, your Uber lawyer can provide representation in court, advocating for your interests. Legal action should be considered in Uber accident claims when insurance negotiations stall, or compensation is insufficient to cover the victim’s expenses and losses. Instances where liability is disputed or multiple parties are involved can further complicate the claims process, making legal intervention necessary.
Speak With an Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney in Colorado Springs Today
If you were injured in an accident involving an Uber driver, it’s important to find a lawyer with the skills and resources to stand up to a big corporation. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., our attorneys won’t back down from anybody. We also take cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.
Call (719) 475-2555 to schedule a FREE consultation with our Colorado Springs rideshare accident lawyer today.