Can You Sue an Uber Driver After an Accident?
With the rise of ridesharing services like Uber, accidents involving Uber drivers have become more common. If you find yourself injured in an accident with an Uber driver, you might wonder whether you can sue the driver for damages. The answer is yes, you can. To pursue a lawsuit against an Uber driver, it is essential to first contact an attorney to ensure you have the legal protection you need and the guidance that will make the entire process more seamless. While there is no guarantee you will recover compensation, hiring a lawyer will grant you the most favorable chance to obtain what you may be entitled to.
Understanding Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Uber provides insurance coverage for accidents that occur during a ride. The coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Their personal insurance policy would apply if the driver is offline or not logged into the Uber app. However, Uber’s insurance coverage kicks in if the driver is actively working, has accepted a ride, or has a passenger in the car. This coverage typically includes liability insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and more.
Suing the Uber Driver
If you are injured in an accident caused by an Uber driver, you can potentially sue the driver for damages. However, whether you can successfully sue the driver directly or need to go through Uber’s insurance depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver were offline or not actively working for Uber, you would generally file a claim against their personal insurance policy. The process would be similar to any other car accident claim in this case.
On the other hand, if the driver were actively working for Uber at the time of the accident, you would typically file a claim with Uber’s insurance. Uber’s insurance provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage caused by their drivers. It is important to note that Uber drivers are considered independent contractors, so suing Uber directly might not be possible in most cases. Instead, you would generally pursue a claim against the driver’s insurance policy covered by Uber.
Proving Liability
To successfully sue an Uber driver, you would need to establish their liability for the accident. This typically involves proving that the driver was negligent or at fault in causing the accident. At this stage, hiring a lawyer and gathering evidence related to the accident will be vital in strengthening your case and chances of obtaining compensation. Remember that according to Illinois law, you have two years from the date you were injured to pursue a personal injury claim. Do not wait!
Contact a Cook County Uber Accident Attorney
For assistance navigating the aftermath of your injury, contact the skilled Schaumburg Uber accident lawyers with Vito & Dollenmaier Law. Call 224-539-8821 for a free consultation.