Wilkes-Barre Uber Accidents Lawyer
The ride-sharing service Uber has become extremely popular throughout Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, these vehicles are just like any other vehicles on the road and are not immune from getting into a car accident. The aftermath of these accidents however, are unique. Insurance issues are some of the most complicated after an Uber accident. There are essentially three different policies that could be relevant to the crash and many people don’t understand what policy will apply to them. Accident victims should never take on a car accident claim on their own, but this is particularly true when an Uber was involved. A Wilkes-Barre Uber accident lawyer can help sort these issues out so those hurt can claim the compensation they need.
Liability in Uber Accidents
Liability in Uber accidents works very similarly to liability in other car crashes. All drivers in Pennsylvania are required to carry proper auto insurance. This insurance provides coverage in the event of an accident.
When it’s determined that another driver was negligent and therefore liable for the crash, those hurt can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company, just as in any other type of car accident. If the Uber driver was negligent and liable for the accident, there are different types of insurance that may apply. The insurance coverage that will provide compensation will depend on the Uber driver’s activity and when the accident occurred.
The Three Time Periods in Uber Accidents
When an Uber driver is involved in an accident that was their own fault, there are two different insurance policies that may apply. The policy that covers the injuries will depend on what the driver was doing, and the time period the accident fell into.
The first time period is when the Uber driver did not have the Uber app turned on and was not available to pick up passengers. In this case, the driver’s own personal insurance policy would provide compensation to hurt individuals.
The second time period kicks in once the Uber driver turns on the app, but does not have a passenger in the vehicle and has not yet accepted a passenger. In this case, Uber’s insurance policy will provide coverage for losses that are not covered by the driver’s own personal insurance policy. This is known as contingent coverage. This type of insurance will provide up to $50,000 per person.
Uber’s insurance policy will continue to provide coverage throughout the third time period, as well. This insurance coverage applies when the Uber driver does have their app turned on and is also carrying a passenger, or is on the way to pick up a passenger. From the moment the driver accepts the passenger to the time they drop the passenger off, Uber will provide up to $1 million in insurance coverage if the Uber driver is at fault for a crash.
After the passenger is dropped off, coverage will then return to Uber’s contingent coverage, or the driver’s own personal insurance policy. The policy that will cover accidents during this time will depend on whether the driver turns the app off.
Were You Hurt in an Uber? Call Our Pennsylvania Uber Accident Attorneys
The aftermath of any car accident is scary and confusing, but this is especially true in an accident that involves an Uber. With so many different insurance policies, it’s often very difficult for accident victims to understand where to turn for compensation. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, call our Wilkes-Barre Uber accident attorneys at O’Donnell Law Offices. We’ve helped many people after these crashes and we want to help you, too. Call us today at (570) 821-5717 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation so we can review your case.
