Ride-sharing services, like Uber, are meant to simplify your life. You don't have to worry about driving. Instead, you can quickly use the app to hire an Uber driver to get you where you need to go. Most of the time, the convenience outweighs the risk. Unfortunately, not every Uber ride ends safely.
Uber accidents occur throughout Kansas and Missouri. If you're hurt in an Uber crash, it's essential to understand the claims process. Here, our Kansas City car accident lawyers share a detailed overview of how the Uber claims process works, including steps to take if you are hurt in an accident, what Uber should do to assist you, the compensation you may recover, and how a car accident attorney can help you navigate the process.
What to Do Immediately After an Uber Accident
The steps you take after an Uber accident are similar to the steps you would take after any Kansas or Missouri motor vehicle crash. For example, you can:
Get Medical Help
It's essential to get medical help as soon as possible. A health care professional can diagnose your injuries, treat your pain, and help prevent your injuries from worsening.
Report the Accident
An Uber accident should be reported to the police and Uber. You can begin by calling 911 to ensure the police come and complete an accident report. Additionally, you can go on the Uber app to report the accident.
Gather Evidence
If possible, you should take pictures, get the name, license number, and insurance information of all the drivers involved in the crash, and note the name and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident.
How to Start the Uber Claims Process
You began the Uber claims process when you contacted Uber to inform them of an accident. Uber maintains insurance that covers accidents that occur when their contracted rideshare drivers are working. If you were hurt while you were an Uber passenger, that insurance coverage applies.
Uber has a claims support team that is supposed to guide you through the claims process and let you know how to report the crash to the right insurance company in Kansas or Missouri. While getting the relevant information from the claims support team is important, you should not trust the claims support team to look out for your best interests. The claims support team does not take the place of an experienced Kansas City car accident lawyer who is committed to protecting your recovery.
How a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Navigating the Uber claims process can be complex and overwhelming if you do it alone. However, a Kansas City car accident lawyer with experience representing passengers injured in Uber crashes can significantly improve your recovery. A car accident attorney:
Has Legal Expertise
Not all car accident lawyers have experience representing people hurt in Uber accidents. Kansas City Uber accident lawyers understand the unique challenges of rideshare accidents and can apply that knowledge to your case. For example, a lawyer who has represented rideshare accident victims can:
- Identify liable parties. Your lawyer will consider all of the circumstances to determine liability and name the right defendants in your case.
- Develop legal strategies. Your attorney will determine the most suitable legal strategies to pursue in your case and provide the guidance you need.
Investigates and Gather Evidence
Your car accident lawyer will conduct a thorough accident investigation to build a strong case on your behalf. Some of the types of evidence your lawyer may look for and consider include:
- Accident reports
- Witness statements
- Photographs
- Video footage
- Medical records to establish the extent of your injuries
- Medical expert witness testimony to understand how your injuries impact your life
- Accident reconstructionist evaluations
Negotiates Settlements
If possible, your car accident lawyer will negotiate with the appropriate insurance companies to get you a fair settlement for your Uber accident injuries. Insurance companies may attempt to pay you less than you deserve. However, your lawyer will protect your interests by:
- Valuing your case so that you can identify a fair settlement
- Presenting evidence and making counter-offers
- Advising you on the pros and cons of accepting an offer
Represents You in Court
When a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your car accident lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. During the litigation process, your lawyer will use their experience and legal expertise to:
- Prepare strong legal arguments
- Examine and cross-examine witnesses
- Present evidence
- Clearly establish the value of your case
- Present a compelling case to the judge and jury
What You May Recover in a Successful Uber Accident Case
It is only worth pursuing an Uber accident case if your potential compensation makes it worth it to pursue legal action. Your Uber accident lawyer will fight for your full and fair recovery during insurance negotiations or in court. Your recovery may include the following:
Medical Costs
After an accident, you may incur various health care costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications. Both past and future medical expenses can be included in your compensation claim. Maintaining detailed records, such as receipts and invoices, is essential to serve as evidence of your health care expenses. Additionally, your lawyer may suggest hiring a medical expert witness to testify about your future medical needs.
Lost Income
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be eligible for compensation for your lost income. Lost income includes your regular wages and any overtime, bonuses, or self-employment income you would have earned. Additionally, future income that you may lose due to your injuries can be factored into your claim.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
Accidents come with various unforeseen expenses. You have the right to seek compensation for out-of-pocket costs, such as transportation expenses, home care, and other accident-related expenditures.
Pain and Suffering
Physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident can be challenging. You may be entitled to receive damages for your pain and suffering, aiming to compensate you for the non-economic losses you've endured. Calculating the value of pain and suffering can be subjective and varies from person to person. An experienced Uber accident lawyer can help estimate the value and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Punitive Damages
In rare cases involving highly reckless or intentional conduct, you may be eligible for punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter others from engaging in similar misconduct. However, punitive damages are typically awarded only in extreme cases.
