Ridesharing services like Uber have revolutionized the way people travel around Brooklyn and throughout New York. With the demand for Uber growing daily and so many people using the service, some accidents will inevitably happen. Who is responsible for an accident when you are on an Uber ride? Can you sue Uber for damages? When is Uber responsible for driver negligence?
Who Can Be Responsible for Driver Negligence?
Driver negligence is failure to exercise reasonable care while driving, resulting in an accident. A driver’s negligent actions or omissions can cause an accident, but there are also situations where a passenger’s actions contribute to an accident. Passengers who contribute to an accident can be held at least partly responsible.
Drivers and rideshare companies like Uber can be held responsible for a passenger’s injuries in an accident. The driver will be liable if their negligence causes an accident. Uber can also be held accountable if the driver is engaged in ridesharing services during the accident.
How Does Uber Address a Driver’s Negligence?
Uber has stringent safety guidelines for its drivers. The rideshare company requires drivers to pass a background check, have a clean driving record, and maintain proper insurance. If a driver violates any of these guidelines and causes an accident, Uber may suspend or terminate the driver’s contract.
In addition, Uber offers insurance coverage to drivers and passengers involved in an accident while taking an Uber ride. This insurance can compensate passengers for their medical expenses, lost income, and other damages caused by an accident.
Does Uber Have Liability in Cases of Driver Negligence?
Uber is liable for accidents caused by their drivers if they provided rideshare services under contract when the accident happened. According to Uber’s insurance policies, the company is responsible for damages up to a specific limit. The driver’s insurance may cover the rest if the damages exceed the limit. In some cases, Uber may refuse to cover the damages, primarily if the driver was not engaged in Uber ridesharing services at the time of the accident.
Uber may not be responsible for an accident if the driver was not engaged in contracted ridesharing services. If the driver was not working for Uber and was driving their own car, then Uber is not responsible for damages caused by the driver. However, Uber may still be liable in some cases if they were aware of the driver’s poor driving record or failed to terminate a driver’s contract despite numerous complaints of unsafe driving.
Tips for Protecting Yourself Against Driver Negligence with Uber
Although Uber drivers undergo a screening process before getting hired, there are still negligent drivers. To protect yourself while using Uber, here are several tips you can follow:
- Check the driver’s rating and reviews before getting into the car.
- Check that the driver’s car matches the vehicle information provided by Uber.
- Avoid getting into a car with a driver who appears intoxicated or distracted.
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Report any incidents of reckless driving or safety concerns to Uber immediately.
Following these tips may reduce your risk of getting into an accident or suffering injuries if an accident does occur.
Uber Rideshare Lawsuits in Brooklyn, NY
You may be entitled to compensation if you are injured in an auto accident while using Uber. However, determining who is liable for your injuries can be complicated. In some cases, the driver may be found responsible, but Uber could be held accountable in other cases.
If Uber is found responsible, you may have the option to file a lawsuit against the company. Pursuing a lawsuit against Uber may result in a higher settlement; plus, you can hold the company accountable for its negligence. However, lawsuits against large companies like Uber can be lengthy and expensive. You can be sure that Uber has a battery of lawyers to protect their interests.
If you have suffered injuries in an Uber accident in Brooklyn, NY, you need an experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have years of experience helping clients recover damages in motor vehicle accident cases. Our team of lawyers will guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.