After an auto accident, certain actions need to be taken. With a complicating factor, such as a rideshare service like Uber, it becomes even more important to take the following actions right away:
- Contact local law enforcement so they can file a report that will serve to document the incident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Gather all the evidence you can.
Dealing with Rideshare Services After Accidents
In addition to the standard issues involved in dealing with a typical car accident, additional factors come into play when dealing with a ridesharing company such as Uber or Lyft.
Even though Uber promises “specially-trained incident response teams” that are supposed to be available day ang night, victims of Uber accidents have often found themselves frustrated and confused following a crash.
Uber drivers do not have any professional education, training, or special licenses. They themselves may not be aware of the legalities regarding these accidents, and will often offer little help or guide in the case of one.
There’s also trouble to deal with after the accident. Uber is infamous for being tough to contact. TIME has reported that there does exist an Uber emergency number riders can call. But the company seems to keep that number under wraps. Getting the number is so difficult that Uber riders tend to report the accident through alternative means, such as email or their electronic receipt.
Victims of Uber accidents in New Jersey have reported the company’s insurer calling them and pressuring them to give a statement. This appears to be part of how Uber deals with accidents on a regular basis.
It’s important to realize that as a passenger, you are not obligated to give such a statement. You should refuse.
The rideshare service insurance agent isn’t asking for a statement to help you. The insurer is trying to get information that will allow them to offer you a smaller settlement or deny your claim outright.
Insurance Coverage for Auto Accidents Involving Rideshares
Uber insures the vehicles operated by their drivers. They have something they call “end-to-end insurance”, claiming, “From pickup to drop-off, every trip around the world is insured – protecting riders, drivers, and everyone else on the road”.
As of March 2016, Uber has had an insurance policy on its drivers that includes $1,000,000 of liability coverage, and just as much for uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage.
In New Jersey, that policy goes even higher – $1,500,000, according to NJ.com. The policy also offers personal injury protection benefits in no-fault states such as New Jersey.
While this all may sound like good news, it’s not the whole story.
Fortune has reported that Uber and Lyft tend to do all they can to avoid responsibility for accidents involving their drivers. They employ several tactics to this end, including telling drivers to file a claim with their own personal insurance, taking advantage of drivers who may be unaware of the company’s broader commercial policy.
Our New Jersey Uber accident attorneys have experience dealing with countless complicated accident claims. Call us today.