Being involved in an Uber accident can be a stressful and confusing experience. Adding to the challenge, rideshare companies have unique policies and insurance systems that can complicate the situation.

An experienced Queens Uber accident attorney can offer the guidance and support you may need. From handling insurance claims to advocating for fair compensation, working with a knowledgeable legal professional may help you focus on healing while protecting your rights.

Immediate Steps After an Uber Accident in New York

Taking the right actions immediately after an Uber accident can be important for your safety and to protect your legal rights. Following these steps may help establish a strong foundation for any potential claims and ensure compliance with local laws.

Prioritize Your Safety and Call Emergency Services

• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others in the vehicle for visible injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, they could worsen over time.
• Move to a Safe Location: If the accident occurred in an active roadway, move to a safer location if possible. However, avoid moving vehicles unless necessary for safety.
• Call 911: Contact emergency services immediately to report the accident. Notifying authorities is often crucial, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. Calling for emergency assistance also creates an official record of the incident, which might be useful for any future claims.

Gather Evidence at the Scene of the Accident

• Exchange Information: Obtain the name, contact details, and insurance information of all drivers and any witnesses involved, including the Uber driver.
• Take Photos and Videos: Document the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, weather, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Clear visuals can serve as helpful evidence.
• Keep Track of Uber Details: Note the rideshare trip information, such as the driver’s name, license plate number, and the time and location of the accident. This information is often available in the Uber app.

Notify the Police and File an Accident Report

Under New York law, you are generally required to report any motor vehicle accident involving injuries or property damage exceeding $1,000.

• Wait for the Police to Arrive: Once notified, the police will typically come to the scene to assess the situation. Cooperate and provide accurate information about what occurred. It’s advisable to avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
• File a Report: Ensure the officer files an official accident report and verifies all details are correct, including the fact that you are a passenger.
• Request a Copy: Obtain a copy of the police report for your records. You can request this through the local precinct or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

By taking these steps, you can help comply with the law and potentially strengthen any legal or insurance claims you may need to file following the accident.

Reporting the Uber Accident and Dealing with Insurance

After an Uber accident, reporting the incident correctly and addressing insurance matters can be important steps. Understanding how to handle these processes may help protect your rights and pursue compensation.

How to Report the Accident to Uber

If you were involved in an accident during an Uber ride, it’s recommended to notify the company as soon as possible.

• Use the Uber App: The fastest way to report the accident is through the Uber app. Navigate to the “Help” section, select “Trip Issues and Refunds,” and then choose “Report an Accident” for the specific trip.
• Provide Accurate Details: Include all relevant information, such as the time, location, and a brief description of what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault.
• Respond to Follow-Up Requests: Uber may reach out to gather additional details or connect you with their claims department. Cooperating with these requests could help facilitate the process.

Timely reporting to Uber is often important because their insurance coverage typically applies only when the ride is active, and delays might complicate your claim.

Uber’s Insurance Coverage in New York

Uber provides insurance coverage that depends on the driver’s activity within the app:

• Offline or Not Using the App: The driver’s personal auto insurance is the only coverage available.
• Available and Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber provides limited liability coverage of $75,000 per person for bodily injury, $150,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
• En Route or During an Active Ride: Uber’s $1.25 million liability coverage applies, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent collision/comprehensive coverage (if the driver has personal collision coverage).

This tiered structure is unique to rideshare companies and can influence how claims are handled and who might be responsible for compensation.

When to Notify Your Personal Auto Insurance Provider

If you are a passenger or an Uber driver involved in an accident, notifying your personal auto insurance provider is often necessary.

• Passengers: If you were injured during the ride, your personal auto insurance might provide coverage for medical expenses through New York’s no-fault insurance system, regardless of fault.
• Drivers: If you were driving for Uber at the time of the accident, your personal auto insurance likely won’t cover the damages, as most personal policies exclude rideshare activity. However, you should still notify them to comply with your policy terms.
• Timeframe for Reporting: Notify your insurer promptly, as delays could lead to complications or denial of coverage.

Involving your personal insurance provider can help fulfill your obligations under the law and your policy, even if Uber’s insurance is the primary coverage for the accident.

Why Working with a Seasoned Queens Uber Accident Attorney Can Be Beneficial

After an Uber accident, focusing on your recovery should ideally be your top priority. Having the right support can make a significant difference in helping you move forward. A Queens Uber accident attorney can offer guidance and support you may need to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Disclaimer: The content in this article is provided for general knowledge. It does not constitute legal advice, and readers should seek advice from qualified legal professionals regarding particular cases or situations.

Published by Joseph T.