Rideshare companies like Uber consider their drivers as independent contractors and not employees. This means that there are situations where the company may deny liability for an accident caused by an Uber driver. Even when liability clearly falls on them, they may decide to reduce the settlement amount they have to pay the victim. This could leave you facing the costs and bills on your own.
If you have been injured in an Uber accident, you will need the help of an experienced Guttenberg Uber Accident Lawyer to get the compensation you deserve.
Causes of Uber Accidents
Rideshare services offer a convenience unmatched by other modes of transportation. Not only can you request a ride with a few taps on your phone, but you can also be at your destination fast, with half the cost of a traditional taxi. But like any form of transport, Uber vehicles are also at risk of car accidents, most of which are caused by the same factors that plague other drivers.
Indeed, driver behaviors like intoxication, distracted driving, and road rage plays a significant role in Uber accidents. However, other factors that put Uber drivers at a higher risk of collisions include:
- Being distracted by GPS systems and the Uber apps, which are used when working.
- Pressure from navigating unfamiliar roads.
- Driving long hours, sometimes covering hundreds of miles every day.
- Minimal breaks due to the on-the-clock system of reimbursement.
Uber drivers are paid depending on the number of hours or miles they drive, they are often looking for passengers and taking minimal or no breaks between trips. This could cause them to engage in distracted driving activities, such as eating or answering emails while driving.
Uber Liability Insurance
Following the implementation of insurance laws regulating rideshare companies, Uber has adopted an insurance policy to cover liability in the event of an accident. The coverage only applies in some situations, with amounts varying depending on your work status at the time of the accident. Here is the breakdown:
- An Uber driver is not covered if, at the time of the accident, the app was off, they were not available to accept passenger requests, or they were using the vehicle to run personal errands.
- If the app was on and the driver was available for requests, Uber maintains coverage of $50,000 in bodily injury per person, $100,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
- If the driver was on their way to pick up a passenger or was driving them to their destination, Uber provides third-party liability coverage of $1,000,000.
Contact a Guttenberg Uber Accident Lawyer Today
Uber accident regulations in New Jersey are relatively new and developing. Attorney Carbone is always up to date with any legal developments and how they may affect liability in a collision. Besides this, he is dedicated to helping accident victims get back on their feet.
If you have been injured in an Uber accident, it is never too soon to speak to an experienced Guttenberg Uber Accident Lawyer. Attorney Anthony Carbone has been representing accident victims in New Jersey for over 30 years. Contact him online today or at 201-733-2230 to schedule an initial consultation.
