In any car accident, serious property damage and injuries can be sustained. It is important to understand the complexities of insurance coverage in an accident involving an Uber or rideshare driver. Depending on the circumstances of the accident various individuals or entities can be held responsible for an Uber accident. Speak with a San Mateo County, California Uber accident lawyer to understand your rights and discuss your legal options after an accident.
Is California a No-Fault State?
Many states are no-fault car accident states, meaning that regardless of who the negligent party was each driver will receive compensation through their own insurance companies. California does not abide by this system. Instead, CA operates under a tort system, meaning that the at-fault driver is responsible for covering the costs associated with the accident.
Whose Insurance is Responsible After an Uber Accident?
If the accident was the fault of a driver not affiliated with Uber, they will be responsible for providing compensation for damages and injuries. However, if the Uber driver was fully or partially responsible then any passengers or other drivers can be covered by either their insurance or Uber’s insurance.
If the Uber driver does not have the app open and is driving for either personal reasons or while using some other rideshare app, they are responsible for the costs associated with an accident. Only when the Uber app is open do they receive benefits from the company’s insurance.
Uber drivers are protected with the following insurance coverages.
- When active in the app: $50,000/person for bodily injury, $100,000/accident for bodily injury, and $25,000/accident for property damage.
- When en route to pick up a passenger: At least $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, PIP, MedPay, collision coverage, etc.
- When a ride is in progress: At least $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, PIP, MedPay, collision coverage, etc.
Uber drivers in California can also choose to opt into Optional Injury Protection. This insurance is designed to include additional protection for drivers. Through these benefits drivers can be covered for medical expenses up to $1,000,000 as well as disability payments of up to $500 per week. The driver’s spouse, children, and other dependents can also receive accidental death benefits and burial expenses up to $150,000 in the event of a fatal accident.
Insurance coverage in an accident with an Uber can be nuanced so acquire help from a skilled attorney who can review the company’s policies and help you navigate the aftermath of an accident.
