Protecting Your Rights after an Uber Accident

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Protecting Your Rights after an Uber Accident

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Ridesharing has become a huge industry – not only in Chicago, but also throughout the country. Uber and Lyft dominate this industry, and they have raised the possibility of your being involved in a motor vehicle collision, simply because of the number of vehicle miles traveled. Ridesharing car accidents are subject to different rules which vary greatly, depending upon the specific facts and circumstances surrounding each accident. 

Depending on what the Uber driver was doing at the time of the accident will determine what policy you will need to make a claim against. Due to the different types of insurance claims available in an Uber accident, it is important to speak with a Chicago Uber attorney immediately after you are involved in an accident. If you have been involved in an Uber accident, call Malman Law for a free consultation and case evaluation. 

Uber Insurance Requirements 

Uber drivers must have liability insurance of at least $50,000 for personal injury or death. Uber offers insurance coverage limits of $1,000,000 in accidents where the driver has a passenger in the car or when the driver is on the way to pick up a passenger. When the driver is waiting for the passenger, the coverage drops down to $100,000 per accident.

Due to the insurance nuances surrounding Uber accidents, it is recommended to seek legal advice early on and to speak with a seasoned Chicago Uber accident attorney immediately following an Uber accident. An attorney will help guide an accident victim throughout the process so that they can focus on what is most important:  their recovery. 

Illinois Ridesharing Laws

The City of Chicago limits the hours that an Uber driver can spend on all ridesharing apps to 10 hours within a 24-hour period. In addition to limiting the amount of time an Uber driver can drive daily, the City of Chicago ridesharing ordinance has many rules to safeguard the public. If an Uber driver violates the Chicago City transportation provider rules, Uber can be heavily fined and possibly sued.

What Happens as An Uber Passenger?

Passengers of an Uber vehicle driver who caused an accident are obviously not at fault for their accident and might be able to recover damages and file a lawsuit. If the accident is caused by a vehicle other than the Uber vehicle, then a claim could be filed against the at-fault vehicle driver. 

If the accident victim is involved in an accident with an off-duty Uber vehicle driver who causes an accident, then that driver would be responsible for the accident, and a claim would be made against the driver’s personal insurance policy. 

Call an Experienced Chicago Uber Attorney Today

If you have been injured in an Uber accident, you have a right to seek monetary compensation for your injuries and damages. Uber accident injuries can result in missed time from work, medical bills, and transportation expenses from traveling to and from your doctor appointments. At Malman Law, our experienced legal team can pursue monetary recovery on your behalf. To schedule a free consultation with a Chicago Uber accident lawyer, please call us at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online for more information.