Rideshare services like Uber have become a convenient way to get around Albuquerque. But what happens if your trip ends with an accident? Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or driver of another vehicle, being injured in an Uber accident can be confusing and overwhelming. Who pays for your medical bills? Can you sue Uber directly? How does insurance coverage work in these cases?
Let us help you understand what to do if you were injured in an Uber accident in Albuquerque. You’ll learn about your legal options, how insurance coverage applies, common pitfalls to avoid, and when it’s wise to contact an Albuquerque Uber accident lawyer. If you or a loved one is dealing with the aftermath of such an accident, understanding your rights can make all the difference in protecting your health, your finances, and your future.
Understanding Uber Accident Claims in Albuquerque
Uber accidents are more complex than standard car crashes. Rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees, which means that liability can depend on many factors, including whether the Uber driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or transporting a passenger at the time of the accident.
Here are the three key insurance scenarios that can happen in rideshare accidents:
- The Driver Was Not Logged Into the App
- If the Uber driver is off-duty and not logged into the app, Uber provides no coverage
- The driver’s personal auto insurance is responsible for damages
- The Driver Was Logged Into the App, but Does Not Have a Passenger Yet
- Uber provides contingent coverage:
- $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person
- $100,000 per accident $25,000 for property damage
- This applies only if the driver’s personal insurance denies or is insufficient
- Uber provides contingent coverage:
- The Driver Was Actively Transporting a Passenger
- Uber’s $1 million liability coverage applies, covering injuries to passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may also be available.
Every accident is different; working with an Uber accident attorney in Albuquerque ensures that you pursue the right insurance policy and don’t settle for less than you deserve.
What to Do After an Uber Accident in Albuquerque – A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call 911
Always prioritize safety first. If you are injured, seek medical help immediately. Call 911 to report the accident so law enforcement can create an official police report, which becomes valuable evidence later.
Step 2: Gather Information at the Scene
If possible, collect:
- The Uber driver’s name, license, and insurance details.
- Contact information for passengers, witnesses, and other drivers.
- Screenshots of your Uber trip receipt showing time and route.
- Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and accident location.
Anything that you can gather can help your rideshare accident lawyer build a strong case for you.
Step 3: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, some injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical record also connects your injuries directly to the accident, strengthening your claim.
Step 4: Report the Accident to Uber
You can report an accident directly in the Uber app under the “Trip and Fare Review” section. Uber’s insurance team may contact you, but be cautious; their goal is to minimize payouts. Never provide a recorded statement without legal advice.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Even if you weren’t driving, your auto or health insurance may still play a role. Reporting the incident protects your rights under your policy.
Step 6: Consult an Albuquerque Uber Accident Lawyer
Uber accidents involve multiple insurance companies, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. An experienced attorney can investigate liability, negotiate with insurers, and, if needed, file a lawsuit to pursue fair compensation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Accepting the First Settlement Offer: Insurers often make quick, low settlement offers before the full extent of your injuries or losses is known. Accepting too soon can result in receiving far less compensation than you actually deserve for ongoing medical bills and future damages.
- Failing to Seek Medical Care: Delaying or skipping medical treatment can make it seem like your injuries are not serious. Consistent medical documentation is essential for proving the extent and cause of your injuries in a claim.
- Providing Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may record your statements to find inconsistencies or comments that can be used to minimize your payout. It’s best to consult an attorney before speaking on record to protect your rights.
- Waiting Too Long: Personal injury claims have strict deadlines called statutes of limitations. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar you from recovering any compensation for your losses.
Avoiding these mistakes is much easier when you have the guidance of a dedicated Albuquerque Uber accident attorney who understands the complexities of rideshare claims. An experienced lawyer can handle communication with insurers, gather critical evidence, and ensure all deadlines are met. With the proper legal support, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the full compensation you deserve.
Justice and Compensation Are Within Reach
At Ruhmann Law Firm, we have helped clients across New Mexico pursue justice after Uber and rideshare accidents. Our attorneys are dedicated to guiding injured victims through the complex insurance process, from investigating liability to negotiating fair settlements. We focus on protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the pain caused by the accident.
Uber accidents in Albuquerque present unique challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. When you choose us, you can expect compassionate support, clear communication, and a strong legal strategy tailored to your case. If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, don’t navigate the system alone; let our team stand by your side.
Call us today at (505) 372-6017 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an Albuquerque Uber accident lawyer who is ready to help you move forward.