What Happens if your Uber gets in an Auto Accident in Illinois?

Ridesharing services have become a preferred means of transport for many people, due to the reliability convenience, and low costs they offer to customers. Uber is among the most established ride-sharing programs in the United States known for successfully completing thousands of rides daily. It has been found that Uber completed its 2 billionth ride in Christmas 2015, which was its sixth year in the ridesharing industry. Considering the large number rides it completes every day, there are high chances of Uber drivers to be involved in auto accidents, leading to property damage and injuries.

So, what happens if you are riding an Uber and it has met an accident? If you are injured in the accident, who will be liable to pay for your injuries? It is important that you know what to do when seeking compensation for your damages that you are entitled to receive in case of an Uber accident.

Uber’s Insurance Policy – How it Works

People driving under the banner of Uber are not considered as its employees – instead they are independent contractors. These drivers are required to have third party liability insurance before they can use the ridesharing program and its app to earn money. Apart from this, Uber also has a contingent liability insurance coverage that offers compensation to injured customers under specific circumstances, such as:

If a Driver is Waiting for a Passenger

If the Uber app is turned on but there is not a passenger assigned or riding with the driver, there is a chance that the contingent liability insurance coverage may come into effect and pay the damages to the customer. However, this policy will act as a secondary insurance coverage, and will only apply when the driver’s third party liability insurance has been expended. It may provide coverage of up to $100,000.

If a Driver is with a Passenger

When a driver is on its way to pick up a customer or the ride has already started, the Uber becomes a commercial vehicle. This means that if an accident occurs during the commute, the contingent policy will come into effect, and provide coverage of up to $1,000,000.

If a Driver is “Off the Clock”

When the app is turned off, this means that the driver is not taking any passengers or is off the clock, and is not working for Uber at that time. If an Uber is in accident in such a situation, only the driver’s third party insurance and other liability insurances will be applied to cover for the damages. This is because the car is not a commercial vehicle at the time of accident, and hence is not the responsibility of the company.

People involved in an accident while riding an Uber are generally confused as to whom they should hold liable to obtain compensation for their injuries. It is best that you work with experienced auto accident attorney who will help you understand your situation and provide you effective solutions. Contact the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. at (847) 395-2200 or online today to schedule your initial consultation.