Uber has become a popular alternative to more traditional means of transportation in Philadelphia. However, as more passengers use Uber, there is an increasing likelihood of more accidents and injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured while traveling as an Uber passenger, Cooper Schall & Levy will fight for rights.
Our Uber passengers rights attorneys have a proven track record of holding Uber and other rideshare companies accountable for accidents that result in passenger injuries. When you become our client, you will get the dedicated and aggressive legal representation you need and deserve. Please contact our office today for a free consultation. You will not pay any attorney’s fees until we win compensation for you.
Possible Injuries Uber Passengers May Suffer
Getting into an automobile accident as an Uber passenger can cause serious injuries, including:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Bone fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Loss of hearing or vision
- Amputations
- Internal organ damage
- Paralysis
These and other injuries may be caused by a third party driver, or may be due to the negligence of your Uber driver. And the potential injuries don’t end with an Uber accident, passengers also face the possibility that they will be attacked or assaulted by their drivers. That could include physical or sexual violence.
The Rights Of Uber Passengers
If you’re an Uber rider, you should expect the following:
A reliable, safe, and sober driver. Potential Uber drivers are required to undergo a screening process. That includes background checks as well as a review of the potential driver’s motor vehicle record. The intent of this screening is to catch any driving violations, drug- or alcohol-related offenses, and convictions for violent crimes. When you’re an Uber passenger, you have the right to expect your driver will abide by traffic laws and operate their vehicle with your safety in mind.
Drivers are also expected to maintain their vehicles and keep them in proper working condition. That means the brakes, seat belts, and tires should meet all applicable safety standards. Any state or local regulations concerning the vehicle must also be followed.
Coverage by Uber’s insurance policy. The company provides insurance that covers drivers in the event of an accident. It applies whenever a trip is in progress – that is, when an Uber driver is transporting a passenger in response to a ride request. The nature of the coverage depends largely on who is at fault for the accident. For example, if the Uber driver is responsible, the passenger is eligible for $1,000,000 in total liability coverage. The company also has a $1,000,000 uninsured/underinsured policy for anyone in the vehicle injured by a third party driver. This applies where the driver has inadequate insurance.
The right to pursue legal remedies. A passenger may be able to pursue legal action against the Uber driver, a third party driver, or Uber itself, depending on the circumstances.
Generally, if an accident happens during a trip, the passenger can access Uber’s insurance coverage as described above. However, there are cases in which the company has attempted to evade responsibility by claiming the driver was not working for Uber when the accident happened. Or Uber may not offer an adequate amount to cover your damages. This may require you to take legal action to force Uber and its insurer to pay for your accident.
Additionally, Uber itself can be held responsible in cases not directly involving its insurance. These are cases in which Uber failed to properly screen its drivers or their vehicles. The company may have failed to complete a background check, thereby allowing a driver with a history of DWIs to pick a passenger up and get into a drunk driving accident. Or perhaps Uber failed to adequately screen for past violent behavior and the Uber driver physically assaulted the passenger. Failure to follow its own background procedures could expose Uber to liability for your injuries.
Taking Legal Action After an Uber Accident in Philadelphia
If you were involved in an Uber accident, either Uber’s insurance policy, the driver’s personal policy, or the third party driver’s policy should come into play. As explained above, the responsible policy will depend on the circumstances surrounding the accident. After a wreck, get the medical assistance you need. Then, speak with an experienced Philadelphia Uber accident lawyer.
Insurance companies often fight over which one is responsible for covering the victim’s damages. Your attorney will handle communications with the insurance companies and make sure the right one is held accountable. Your lawyer will also be responsible for the necessary paperwork and filing any legal documents in an efficient and timely manner.
Ideally, your case will never need to reach a courtroom because the responsible insurance carrier will pay for your losses. But if necessary, we will take your case before a judge and demand the insurance company makes a fair payout. Our firm also makes sure that the compensation provided is adequate. Insurance companies are known for making absurdly low settlement offers or refusing to cover legitimate losses. We understand Pennsylvania automobile accident law and will demand the liable party covers your reasonable expenses.
What Will The Insurance Company Have To Pay?
Depending on the facts in your case, the responsible insurance carrier may have to cover such damages as:
- Medical bills, including for hospital stays and follow up treatments
- Prescription medication costs
- Lost wages due to time missed from work
- Decreased earning capacity due to inability to work at the same level as before the accident
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Contact Our Philadelphia Uber Passengers’ Rights Attorney
Taking on Uber and the insurance companies is difficult and demands the experience Cooper Schall & Levy brings to the table. When you become our client, we will explore all legal options and go to work immediately for you. Reach out to us today to get started on your case.
Cooper Schall & Levy personal injury lawyers serve Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as well as neighboring counties such as Montgomery County and Delaware County and cover neighborhoods such as Norristown and Drexel Hill.
