Let’s Talk Uber Crashes and Next Steps
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that Ridesharing has become an essential mode of transportation in New York City, and Uber is one of the most popular options for people. However, with increased use comes an increased risk of car accidents. If you’re involved in an Uber crash as a passenger, it can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. Who is responsible for the compensation? Who is responsbile for your injuries? Let’s talk about what you can do if your Uber crashes in NYC, covering your rights, responsibilities, and the laws in place to protect you.
1. Check for Injuries and Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After any accident, the first step should always be to check for injuries. Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, some injuries can take time to manifest. Call 911 if anyone is seriously injured, and let medical professionals evaluate you at the scene. Your health and safety are paramount.
Pro Tip: Keeping a medical record from the moment of the accident strengthens your case if you need to claim compensation later.
2. Report the Accident
In New York, accidents involving injuries or significant property damage must be reported to the police. Ensure that a police report is filed, as it will serve as an official record of the incident. The police report will include essential details about the accident, which can be useful when making a claim.
Afterward, you should also report the accident to Uber. You can do this through the app by navigating to “Help” > “Trip Issues and Refunds” > “I was in an accident.” Uber will document the incident and may initiate an investigation.
External Resource: For more details on accident reporting requirements in NYC, visit the New York DMV Accident Reporting Page.
3. Gather Important Information
Documenting the details of the accident is crucial. Gather the following information:
- Driver’s Information: Name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
- Vehicle Information: License plate number, make, model, and color of the car.
- Accident Details: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Witnesses: If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief statement of what they saw.
These details will be essential for your personal injury claim, and they can help establish liability in the event of a dispute.
4. Understand Uber’s Insurance Coverage
In New York City, Uber drivers are covered by a unique insurance structure that can provide compensation for injured passengers. Understanding how Uber’s insurance works is vital:
- Uber’s $1 Million Liability Coverage: If the driver was actively transporting you or was en route to pick up a passenger when the accident occurred, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million. This insurance applies regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: If the Uber driver or another driver involved in the accident has insufficient insurance, Uber’s policy also includes $1 million in uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which protects you as a passenger.
- Driver’s Personal Insurance Coverage: If the driver was not logged into the Uber app when the accident occurred, then Uber’s insurance does not apply, and the driver’s personal insurance will cover the damages.
External Resource: You can read more about Uber’s insurance coverage for passengers on the Uber Insurance Policy Page.
5. Filing a Personal Injury Claim
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Under New York personal injury laws, you can file a claim to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Notify Uber’s Insurance Provider
Uber’s insurance policies are managed by large insurers, like James River Insurance Company. To begin the claims process, you or your attorney will need to notify Uber’s insurance provider of the accident and provide supporting documentation.
Step 2: Gather Medical Records and Proof of Expenses
Your attorney can help you compile all necessary documents, such as medical records, receipts for medical expenses, and proof of lost income.
Step 3: Negotiate or File a Lawsuit
Most personal injury claims are settled out of court. However, if the insurance company offers an unsatisfactory settlement, your attorney can negotiate further or file a lawsuit on your behalf.
External Resource: To understand your rights under New York personal injury law, visit the New York State Unified Court System’s Personal Injury Laws Page.
6. Know the Statute of Limitations
New York has a strict statute of limitations for personal injury claims. You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, acting sooner is better, as evidence can degrade, and witnesses may be harder to locate over time.
If the claim involves a city-owned vehicle, such as an MTA bus or a city vehicle that caused or was part of the accident, you only have 90 days to file a notice of claim against the city and one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit. Speak to an attorney promptly to ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.
External Resource: For more details on the statute of limitations, you can check the New York Consolidated Laws, Civil Practice Law & Rules – CVP §214.
7. Consult with a NYC Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating a personal injury claim after an Uber accident can be complex. A skilled attorney like Michael J. Redenburg can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Working with a personal injury lawyer increases your chances of a favorable outcome and ensures that you don’t miss any steps in the legal process.
Michael J. Redenburg has extensive experience representing Uber accident victims in NYC, and his team is prepared to handle the nuances of rideshare-related claims.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Rights After an Uber Accident
Uber crashes can be traumatic experiences, but understanding the steps to take afterward can help protect your health and legal rights. Remember to seek medical attention, gather as much information as possible, and consult with a qualified attorney who can guide you through the claims process.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident in New York City, don’t hesitate to reach out to Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. for a consultation. With the right support, you can work towards securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For assistance with your specific case, please contact Michael J. Redenburg, Esq., PC. or call 646-760-3534.