Ridesharing has become an everyday part of life for millions of people, with services like Uber and Lyft offering convenient, affordable transportation. However, like any form of travel, ridesharing comes with its own set of risks. Accidents can happen, and when they do, navigating the claims process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how things work. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or third party involved in a rideshare accident, understanding the claims process is crucial for securing the compensation you deserve.
In this blog, we’ll break down how to file a claim for an Uber accident and offer practical tips to help you through the process.
The moments immediately following an accident are critical, and taking the right steps can help your claims process later on.
One of the first things you’ll need to do after an accident is file an insurance claim. Uber has their own insurance policies that differ from traditional car insurance.
One of the most complex aspects of the claims process is determining liability. Depending on the circumstances, different parties may be responsible for the accident:
Once you’ve determined the appropriate insurance provider, it’s time to file for compensation. The damages you may be able to claim include:
There are strict deadlines for filing insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits. These are governed by state laws, and failing to file within the specified period can result in losing your right to compensation. In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim but it’s essential to start the process as soon as possible.
In some cases, you may encounter situations where the driver does not have adequate insurance. Fortunately, both Uber and Lyft provide uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. If you’re unable to recover sufficient compensation through the driver’s insurance, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may cover the gap.
There are a few hurdles that can make rideshare accident claims more complicated than traditional car accidents:
While some people may feel comfortable handling their own claims, the complexity of rideshare accident claims often makes it worthwhile to consult with a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed. They can also ensure that you’re pursuing all available avenues for compensation.
Attorney Scott Callahan is board-certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction earned by less than 10% of lawyers in Texas. He has over 25 years of experience in helping victims earn the money they need to heal and move on with their lives. Give the firm a call today for a free legal consultation at 713-888-9000.
Workplace injuries can happen to anyone, and when they do, it’s crucial to know the right steps to take—especially in Texas, where the rules and regulations can differ from other states. Your actions after the injury can make a big difference in your recovery and your ability to receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
The first thing you should do after any workplace injury is to report it to your employer. In Texas, the law requires that you report any work-related injury within 30 days. If you fail to report the injury within this timeframe, you could lose your right to workers’ compensation benefits.
Follow your company’s procedures for reporting injuries. This may involve filling out a formal accident report, notifying your supervisor, or telling the human resources department.
After reporting the injury, the next step is to seek medical care. Even if your injury seems minor, it’s always a good idea to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time.
In Texas, open communication with your employer is crucial. Notify them regularly about your recovery progress and keep them informed about any work restrictions or medical treatments.
If your employer does not carry workers’ compensation insurance, you may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against your employer.
Finally, remember that your health and recovery come first. Injuries can take time to heal, and pushing yourself too soon may lead to longer-term complications. Follow your doctor’s orders, attend physical therapy if necessary, and give yourself time to rest and heal.
Experiencing a workplace injury in Texas can be overwhelming, but understanding the right steps to take can help make the process smoother.
Attorney Scott Callahan is board-certified in personal injury law by the Texas Board of Specialization and has handled many work injury cases throughout his almost 30 years in practice. Give the firm a call today to discuss your potential work injury case at 713-888-9000.
Auto insurance is designed to protect you in the event of an accident or damage to your vehicle, but what happens when your claim is denied? If your insurer refuses to pay for repairs, medical bills, or damages after an accident, it can be frustrating and overwhelming. Understanding the common reasons why auto insurance claims are denied can help you avoid these pitfalls and ensure that you are prepared if the unexpected happens.
Here are the top 10 reasons your auto insurance claim might be denied:
One of the most straightforward reasons for a denied claim is failure to pay your premiums. If your insurance policy has lapsed due to missed payments, your insurer may refuse to cover any claims. Make sure to stay current on your payments and keep track of your policy renewal dates to avoid this issue.
If you were involved in an accident while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, your insurer may deny your claim. Most auto insurance policies contain a clause that excludes coverage for accidents caused by driving while intoxicated or impaired. Not only could this result in a claim denial, but it could also lead to higher premiums or even loss of coverage.
If you don’t provide the required documentation when filing a claim, such as a police report, photos of the accident scene, or medical records, your insurer may deny your claim. To avoid this, be sure to gather and submit all necessary information as soon as possible after an accident.
If someone who is not listed on your policy was driving your vehicle at the time of the accident, your insurer may deny the claim. Most auto insurance policies only cover claims for accidents involving drivers who are authorized to drive the vehicle. Ensure that anyone who drives your car is properly listed on your policy.
If the driver involved in the accident does not have a valid driver’s license, the insurance company may refuse to cover the claim. It’s essential that all drivers on your policy maintain a valid and up-to-date license.
Some auto insurance policies have exclusions, which are specific situations where the insurer will not cover a claim. For example, damage caused by natural disasters, vandalism, or specific types of accidents may not be covered under certain policies. Review your policy to understand what is and isn’t covered to avoid surprises later.
If the insurer suspects that the damage was intentionally caused—whether through arson, vandalism, or staged accidents—they may deny the claim. Insurance companies conduct thorough investigations, and intentional damage is grounds for both claim denial and potential legal action.
Most auto insurance policies require that you report an accident within a specific timeframe, often within 24 to 48 hours. If you fail to notify your insurer promptly, they may deny your claim. Be sure to report accidents as soon as possible to prevent this from happening.
If you don’t have enough coverage for the damages incurred, your claim may be denied or only partially paid out. For example, if you only have liability insurance and your car is damaged in a collision that is your fault, your insurance may not cover the cost of repairs. Be sure to review your coverage limits and consider adding comprehensive or collision coverage for greater protection.
Getting your auto insurance claim denied can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but knowing the common reasons for denial can help you avoid these pitfalls and protect yourself in the future. To ensure your claims are processed smoothly, always stay current on your premiums, provide all necessary documentation, and review your policy to make sure it aligns with your needs. If you feel your claim was unjustly denied, don’t hesitate to challenge the decision or seek legal advice. Attorney Scott Callahan has been in practice for over 25 years and has seen a wide array of reasons for claim denials and can advise on the best path forward. Give the office a call today at 713-888-9000.