It was recently announced that Uber's services will now extend across New York State, including Upstate New York and Long Island. Uber is a rideshare service that allows individuals to order a ride through his or her smartphone. An Uber driver will then pick up an individual at a determined location with his or her private vehicle and bring the rider to their destination. Uber drivers are employed under a "freelance" status, which may become problematic when trying to determine who is liable in the event an accident.

What should you do after an Uber accident?

The first thing to do if you are in an Uber accident is to notify the authorities and seek medical attention. You or a loved one should file an official police report and document who was at fault for the accident. If possible, take down the license plates of all of the vehicles involved in the accident. In addition, be sure to take pictures of the vehicles in order to document the damage. Next, if you or a loved one are injured, contact a personal injury attorney immediately in order to ensure that your rights are protected.

Does insurance cover an Uber accident?

Uber provides liability insurance coverage to all of its drivers in addition to certain insurance requirements that each driver must carry for himself or herself. Even though most Uber drivers carry personal insurance policies, some do not cover a driver who is engaged in a rideshare service, which is why Uber provides additional insurance for any claims that are denied through a driver's insurance. As a passenger in an Uber accident, you or a loved one would be entitled to receive compensation for injuries and expenses related to the incident under Uber's liability policy for drivers. Additionally, Uber's policy covers passengers hurt in a crash with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Uber has insurance coverage of $1,000,000.00 for each driver, as well as excess coverage.

Can compensation be recovered for an Uber accident?

If you or a loved one is hurt in an Uber accident, you are covered by the "freelance" driver's policy, Uber's liability policy, and excess coverage, regardless of whether the Uber driver or another individual was at fault. It is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can assist you or your loved one in order to get the compensation you are entitled to.