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If you’ve been injured while riding in an Uber in Maryland, it’s important to act quickly to protect your health and legal rights. Maryland law requires Uber to carry insurance for passengers, but the claims process can be complex. From documenting the accident to understanding insurance coverage and filing deadlines, knowing what to do next can make a significant difference in your recovery and compensation. This guide from our Maryland car accident attorneys at McGowan & Cecil, LLC outlines the essential steps to take after an Uber accident in Maryland.
What Should You Do Immediately After an Uber Accident?
1. Is Everyone Safe? Call 911 and Get Medical Attention
Your safety is the top priority. Call 911 if anyone is injured or there’s significant damage. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention right away. Injuries like concussions or soft tissue damage may not show symptoms immediately. Prompt treatment also creates a medical record that supports your injury claim.
2. How Do You Document the Accident Scene?
If you’re physically able, take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Get the Uber driver’s name, license plate number, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. These details can be critical when determining fault and insurance coverage.
3. Should You Report the Accident to Uber and the Police?
Yes. Use the Uber app to report the incident. Uber has a formal process for handling passenger accidents. Also, file a police report, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report provides an official account of the crash, which can strengthen your claim.
4. What Evidence Should You Keep?
Preserve all medical records, receipts, and any communication with Uber or insurance companies. Save screenshots of your ride details from the Uber app. These documents help establish a timeline and support your case if you pursue compensation.
How Does Uber’s Insurance Work in Maryland?
When Does Uber’s Insurance Apply?
Uber’s insurance coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- Driver not using the app: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
- Driver logged into the app but not on a trip: Limited liability coverage may apply.
- Driver en route to pick up a passenger or during a trip: Uber’s commercial insurance is the primary coverage.
What Are Maryland’s Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Drivers?
Maryland law requires rideshare drivers to carry specific insurance coverage. When the app is on but no passenger is present, drivers must have minimum liability coverage. Once a passenger is in the vehicle, higher coverage limits apply, typically through Uber’s commercial policy. This layered system is designed to protect passengers, but determining which policy applies can be difficult without legal guidance.
Why Is Insurance Coverage Often Complicated?
Rideshare accidents can involve multiple insurance policies, Uber’s insurance coverage, the driver’s personal policy, and possibly other drivers’ policies. The applicable coverage depends on the timing of the accident and the driver’s app status. A Maryland personal injury attorney can help identify the correct insurer and ensure your claim is properly handled.
What Are Common Misconceptions About Uber Injury Claims in Maryland?
Many passengers believe Uber’s insurance automatically covers all injuries, but that’s not always true. Coverage depends on whether the driver was actively on a trip. Maryland follows a fault-based system, meaning you must prove who caused the accident to receive compensation. You typically don’t need to sue Uber directly, as most claims are resolved through insurance. However, failing to report the accident or gather evidence can significantly weaken your case.
Were You Injured in an Uber Accident in Maryland?
If you were hurt in an Uber accident in Maryland, don’t try to handle the process alone. The attorneys at McGowan & Cecil, LLC understand the complexities of rideshare injury claims and are ready to help you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.