In the dynamic world of ridesharing, safety is paramount, and yet, accidents can happen. As an Uber driver, being well-prepared and informed about the steps to take in the unfortunate event of an accident is not just a responsibility but a crucial aspect of ensuring a secure journey for both drivers and passengers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the intricacies of what to do if you find yourself in an accident, the insurance processes involved, and how Uber supports its driver partners during challenging times. Let’s embark on this journey of understanding, empowering every Uber driver with the knowledge to confidently navigate the road to safety.
1. What Should I Do in Case of an Accident?
If you find yourself in an accident, you can follow these steps:
- Ensure the safety of everyone involved in the accident.
- Inform the police and emergency medical teams if necessary.
- Contact us through the Help section of the driver app. Navigate to the Issues and Adjustments section, then select I was in an accident.
- If you need to report the accident immediately, go to the Help section of your driver app and call the Support team to speak directly with a specially trained representative.
Q: Can I Get Immediate Assistance During an Accident?
Yes, you can directly contact a specialized representative through the Help section of your driver app to report the accident immediately.
2. Process for Commercially Licensed and Insured Driver Partners
For some Uber driver partners with commercial licenses and insurance for services like limousines, taxi rentals, luxury vehicles, or private car rentals, the process is as follows:
- Driver partners seeking insurance coverage for accidents during these trips should contact the insurance company with which they have commercial vehicle insurance.
Q: How Does the Process Work for Commercially Licensed and Insured Driver Partners?
Driver partners with commercial licenses and insurance should get in touch with their insurance provider for matters related to commercial vehicle insurance.
3. Coverage if the Other Party is at Fault in an Accident
- If the other party is at fault, and there is insufficient insurance coverage or a hit-and-run situation, Uber’s insurance can protect you.
Q: What Is Covered if the Other Party is at Fault?
If the other party is at fault and lacks sufficient insurance coverage or has fled the scene, Uber’s insurance provides bodily injury and property damage coverage.
4. If I am at Fault While Driving with Uber
Insurance coverage varies based on when the accident occurred.
Q: If I Am Online But Haven’t Accepted a Ride, What Coverage Applies if I’m at Fault?
If you are online but haven’t accepted a ride and you are at fault in an accident, you will be insured for third-party liability within the coverage.
Q: What Does the Coverage Include for an At-Fault Accident Before Accepting a Ride?
The coverage varies by state, but it includes bodily injury coverage of at least $50,000 per person, with a total of $100,000 per accident, and property damage coverage of $25,000 per accident.
Q: What Coverage Applies if I’m Involved in an At-Fault Accident After Accepting a Ride?
If you accept a ride and are involved in an at-fault accident that involves all parties covered by the insurance, you are insured for:
- Third-party liability (at least $1 million)
- Collision and comprehensive insurance
- If your personal insurance already covers this, Uber’s insurance acts as a secondary option (with a deductible of $2,500 as of March 1, 2021, and a $1,000 deductible for vehicles acquired through the vehicle marketplace).
5. Uber Insurance and Rental Car Expenses After an Accident
No, Uber insurance does not cover rental car expenses. However, if your personal car insurance includes collision and comprehensive coverage, Uber’s driver partners’ insurance kicks in. This insurance covers repair and replacement costs up to the actual cash value of your vehicle. A deductible of $2,500 is applied before this coverage takes effect, and for vehicles acquired through the vehicle marketplace, a $1,000 deductible is applied.
Q: Does Uber Insurance Cover Rental Car Expenses After an Accident?
No, it does not cover rental car expenses. However, if your personal car insurance includes coverage for this, Uber’s insurance can serve as a secondary option.
Q: Should I Expand My Personal Car Insurance?
Expanding your personal car insurance to include ridesharing or delivery can provide additional protection.
