What Happens if You’re in an Uber Accident In North Carolina

In recent years, North Carolina has experienced a surge in the popularity of ride-sharing services like Uber. While this technology has revolutionized the way people travel, it has also led to an increase in accidents involving ride-sharing vehicles, with passengers and other road users being injured in the process. The situation has become a cause for concern, especially for those who don’t know what to do in case of an Uber accident in North Carolina.

It is essential to remember that if you are involved in an Uber accident in North Carolina, you have legal rights and options. Your safety and well-being should come first, followed by the legal proceedings following the incident. In this article, we’ll discuss what to do if you’re in an Uber accident in North Carolina and what legal options you have to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Insurance Do Uber and Lyft Carry for Their Drivers?

As a driver for Uber or Lyft in North Carolina, their insurance coverage status varies depending on whether you are logged into the app, driving to pick up a ride, or actively transporting a passenger. It is important to understand the insurance coverage provided in each scenario to ensure that you are properly protected in the event of an accident.

Here is a breakdown of the insurance coverage for each driver status:

1. Driver logged into the app, but no ride request: In this scenario, Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for bodily injury liability up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident and property damage liability coverage up to $25,000. This coverage applies if your personal auto insurance does not apply. It is important to note that these limits may not be sufficient in certain situations, so it is recommended to carry additional insurance coverage.
2. Driver accepted ride request or is transporting a passenger: When you have accepted a ride request or are actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million of combined bodily injury and property damage liability coverage. This coverage extends to you, your passengers, and any other parties involved in the accident. In addition to this insurance coverage, Uber and Lyft also provide uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the other party involved in the accident is uninsured or underinsured.

It is important to understand the insurance coverage provided by Uber and Lyft to ensure that you are adequately protected while driving for these companies. In the event of an accident, a car accident lawyer in Charlotte, NC can help assist you in filing a claim with the appropriate insurance company.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered in an Uber Accident Lawsuit?

After a successful Uber accident lawsuit, victims may be eligible for compensation for various financial and non-financial losses.

The damages recovered may include the following:

• Vehicle repairs or replacement: Victims may receive reimbursement for the cost of repairing or replacing their vehicle that was damaged in the accident.
• Medical expenses: Victims may be entitled to reimbursement for costs associated with medical care after the accident. This includes hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, and prescriptions for medication.
• Long-term care costs: In some cases, victims may require long-term care for their injuries. Compensation may cover the cost of these services.
• Lost wages: Victims may lose income during their recovery. Compensation could include reimbursement for lost wages during this period.
• Loss of future earnings: In severe cases, victims may be unable to work in the same capacity they did before the accident. Compensation may cover the loss of earning capacity or future employment benefits.
• Physical pain and emotional distress: The physical pain and emotional anguish caused by the accident can result in damages for the victim.
• Loss of quality of life: If the victim’s ability to enjoy and participate in life activities changes, compensation may be available.

Hiring a lawyer is not mandatory but can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful compensation claim. Ultimately, the goal is to recover damages that provide fair compensation for all the losses suffered due to the accident.

How Long Do You Have to File an Uber Accident Lawsuit in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the statute of limitations on rideshare accidents is strict, requiring claimants to file their lawsuit within three years of the accident. It should be noted that filing beyond the statute of limitations can result in the court dismissing your lawsuit permanently, causing you to miss the opportunity to receive compensation for your losses.

This is why contacting a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible is highly recommended, especially after a crash involving Uber or Lyft.

Don’t Be Scared on the Roads, Protect Your Rights!

In the event of an Uber accident in North Carolina, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself and your rights. It’s important to note that navigating the legal and insurance aspects of an Uber accident can be complex, and seeking the advice and guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney is recommended. They can help you understand your rights and legal options, and work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.