- Uber Accidents
Whether you’re driving into or out of Lawrenceville, GA, using an Uber is pretty efficient. You can let someone else drive, worry about the road, and enjoy your company or some alone time. But Uber drivers, just like anyone else, can get into a wreck. Uber often vets its staff and drivers before hiring them. But still, even a very safe driver can get into an accident in an Uber.
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, call an experienced Uber wreck attorney in Atlanta.
How Does Uber Decide Who is a Safe Driver?
Uber does background checks its drivers. Unlike other jobs, Uber does not just look at their criminal history. Uber reviews its drivers for past violent convictions within the criminal court system and their driving history.
While it’s not exactly clear what Uber will and will not allow, it is apparent that a multitude of accidents means you can’t drive for them. Uber uses the state’s license point system to identify your risk as a driver. They also go through your driving record to survey for DUIs or reckless driving charges that could put riders at risk.
Ultimately, Uber does a pretty good job of trying to weed out applicants that might pose a risk to their passenger.
Should You Explore Legal Options After Getting in an Accident in an Uber?
Absolutely you should open a legal claim after an Uber wreck. Regardless of whose fault it was, you know as the passenger that it definitely wasn’t your fault. That means that someone should pay for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and more. Usually, in cases with a ridesharing company that “someone” is Uber. But, there are times when you could need to take your claim to the other driver, or through the Uber driver’s private insurance.
Now that these ridesharing apps have been around for a few years, most Lawrenceville auto accident attorneys understand how to proceed with these cases. During a consultation, the Lawrenceville attorney will go through your account to identify if this is a case against Uber or someone else.
They will also look at any cursory evidence you have and attempt to sort out whether they think Uber will payout or not.
Does it Matter Who Was At-Fault?
As a passenger, it doesn’t matter at all. However, if you’re the driver, or if you were the other driver, then the fault does matter. Georgia’s fault system allows the person who is less at fault to pursue a claim against the at-fault party through the involved insurance companies.
For example, if you were the Uber driver and the other vehicle hit you, you would file a claim through Uber. But ultimately, you would probably receive compensation from the other involved insurance company.
Now, if you were the other driver and the Uber driver was at-fault, then it would likely be the Uber policy that paid out if they were on an active ride. If the driver was not active on an Uber ride, then it would go through that person’s personal coverage policy.
Making your Claim Through Uber as a Passenger
As a passenger, you’ll start by making a claim through Uber directly. They have an emergency line or a non-emergency line available, and both will allow you to notify them of the crash. However, you’ll need to go through and gather up the evidence for your Uber wreck. That evidence will include a police report, pictures from the wreck, and proof that you were in that car.
If you don’t have any of this, then you can start by informing them of your user information, and the ride you took Uber can often identify the past rides with little effort. However, the other information you’ll be on your own with, and it may be best for the Uber claim to contact a local Lawrenceville attorney.
A Lawrenceville, GA Car Accident Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been in an Accident in an Uber
When you’re at a loss for what to do, you should reach out to a local Lawrenceville auto accident law firm. Not only will these attorneys serve to help you assemble your claim, but they should negotiate for as much compensation as possible. In Lawrenceville, GA, you can contact the law offices of John B Jackson and initiate your claim, send a demand, and fight for fair compensation.
We understand, at John B Jackson, that there’s a lot riding on your claim. If the Uber driver was at fault, it might seem like your options are limited. Fortunately, you can have a wide variety of coverage options. Uber’s insurance policy is in place to protect its riders and drivers, and that means you should be covered no matter what.