Ridesharing services like Uber have become extremely popular in recent years. Uber offers convenient transportation through their smartphone app that connects riders with drivers. However, this also introduces some uncertainties when it comes to liability if you’re involved in an accident while riding with an Uber driver in Alabama. Here are some key factors to consider if you’re deciding whether or not to sue your Uber driver after an accident in Alabama. Our car accident attorney in Birmingham is ready to evaluate your case and explain your legal options in detail.
Is the Uber Driver Covered Under Their Own Insurance Policy?
When driving for Uber, drivers are required to carry their own auto insurance policies. So, the first step is to find out if the Uber driver has adequate insurance coverage. However, many personal auto policies contain exclusions that prevent coverage when the vehicle is being used for commercial purposes. So, you’ll want to check if the driver’s personal insurer will cover damages from the accident. If not, you may need to pursue compensation from the driver directly.
What Coverage is Provided Under Uber’s Insurance Policy?
In addition to requiring personal auto policies, Uber also provides supplemental commercial coverage for drivers. This insurance only applies while the Uber app is on and during specified periods.
If the Uber driver’s personal insurance denies the claim, then you may be able to file under Uber’s policy. This provides up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage for injuries to riders and pedestrians, and property damage. However, Uber’s insurance only applies if the driver’s policy doesn’t cover the accident first.
Is the Accident the Uber Driver’s Fault?
To successfully sue the Uber driver, you must be able to prove that they were at fault for causing the accident and your subsequent injuries and damages. Gather police reports, witness statements, photos and videos from the scene, and any other evidence that supports your claim that the Uber driver was negligent or reckless.
Alabama follows contributory negligence rules. This means you can’t recover damages if you were partially at fault.
What Are Your Damages from the Accident?
Calculate all the ways the accident impacted you financially, physically, and emotionally. This includes property damage, medical bills, lost income from missed work, pain and suffering, permanent disabilities or disfigurement, emotional distress, and loss of companionship if a loved one was killed. Document your damages with evidence like repair estimates, medical records and bills, pay stubs, and therapy expenses.
Suing the Uber driver allows you to recover compensation for all your accident-related damages. Without taking legal action, you could be left paying these costs out of pocket.
Should You Hire an Attorney?
An experienced personal injury attorney from Monge & Associates can handle all aspects of your claim from start to finish. They can conduct a thorough investigation, negotiate a fair settlement, and take the case to trial if needed. Our Birmingham-based personal injury attorney at Monge & Associates also helps determine all sources of insurance coverage available and who should be held responsible.
If your damages are significant, liability seems unclear, or the insurance company is giving you difficulties, get in touch with us. Uber drivers may be covered under multiple policies, so we can navigate the complex legal and insurance issues.
We have offices in 32 locations and 19 states, including Alabama, Maryland, and Tennessee.
Contact us online or call (888) 477-0597 to schedule a free consultation if you’ve been hurt in an Uber accident.