How to File an Uber Accident Claim in South Carolina
Uber accidents can happen without warning and leave you with injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. If you were hurt in an Uber accident in South Carolina, you have rights and options. Filing an Uber accident claim can help you recover money for your injuries and losses. At McDougall Law Firm, we are here to explain the steps to take after an accident and how to make sure your claim is handled the right way.
In this blog, we explain how to file an Uber accident claim in South Carolina, the steps to take after an accident, and how working with an experienced Beaufort Uber accident attorney can help you recover fair compensation.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Uber Accident in South Carolina
When you are involved in an Uber accident in South Carolina, taking immediate and careful action can help protect your Uber accident claim. Below are the steps you should follow.
Ensure Safety and Call for Help
Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible to prevent further harm. Call 911 to report injuries and summon medical help if anyone is hurt. Under South Carolina law (S.C. Code § 56-5-1210), you must stop and remain at the accident scene.
Report the Accident to the Police
Tell the police about the accident so they can create an official accident report. This document will serve as vital evidence for your Uber accident claim. South Carolina requires drivers to report crashes with injuries or significant property damage (S.C. Code § 56-5-1260).
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
See a doctor, even if you feel fine. Some injuries can appear later. Keep records of your medical visits and expenses to strengthen your Uber accident claim.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Collect evidence before you leave the accident scene. Take clear photos of the accident location, the vehicles involved, and any injuries. Get contact details from witnesses and Uber drivers. Note the ride request details in the Uber app.
Contact an Uber Accident Lawyer
Consult an Uber accident lawyer in South Carolina as soon as possible. An attorney can explain your rights and handle your Uber accident claim. They can also help you understand what compensation you may be eligible for, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Reporting the Accident to Uber and Filing an Insurance Claim
After an Uber accident in South Carolina, it is important to notify Uber and start the insurance claim process promptly. Follow these steps to protect your Uber accident claim.
Report the Incident in the Uber App
Open the Uber app and use the Help section to report the accident. Provide details about the crash, injuries, and property damage. Uber’s app will guide you through submitting an incident report form. This report is essential for your Uber accident claim.
Understand Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Uber has different insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status. When the driver has the app on and is waiting for a ride request, South Carolina requires Uber to provide minimum liability coverage under S.C. Code § 58-23-1610. This includes up to $50,000 for injuries per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. If the driver has accepted a ride or is carrying passengers, Uber’s coverage increases to $1 million.
Identify Which Insurance Policy Applies
Determine if your claim will go through Uber’s insurance or the driver’s personal insurance. If the driver was off duty and not using the Uber app, the driver’s personal policy applies. If the driver was using the Uber app, Uber’s insurance covers the accident. An Uber accident lawyer can help you sort out which policy applies to your situation.
Provide Accurate and Complete Information
When you report the accident, be clear and honest about what happened. Provide accurate details about the accident, your injuries, and any property damage. This information will help support your Uber accident claim.
Key Considerations in Filing an Uber Accident Claim
When you start an Uber accident claim in South Carolina, you should keep several key points in mind to protect your rights and get fair compensation.
Determine Fault and Responsibility
South Carolina uses comparative negligence rules under S.C. Code § 15-38-15. This means you can recover damages even if you are partly at fault, as long as you are less than 51 percent responsible. Determining fault involves reviewing evidence, police reports, and witness statements. An Uber accident lawyer can help you gather this information.
Know What Compensation You Can Seek
You may be eligible to claim medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. You can also seek compensation for pain and suffering if you have injuries. Keep records of all your medical treatments, repairs, and lost income to support your Uber accident claim.
Keep Careful Records
Collect and organize documents that show how the accident affected you. Save medical bills, pay stubs, and receipts for repairs. These records show the insurance company and the court the true cost of your injuries and losses.
Understand Uber’s Insurance Limits
Uber’s insurance policy covers injuries and property damage when the driver is on duty. But these limits depend on whether the driver had the app on, was waiting for a ride, or was carrying passengers. Knowing these details will help you decide how much coverage applies to your Uber accident claim.
Work with an Experienced Uber Accident Lawyer
An Uber accident lawyer in South Carolina can explain these issues and help you file a claim that follows state law. They can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to court if needed. This helps you focus on your recovery while your claim moves forward.
How an Experienced Uber Accident Lawyer Can Help
When you have been hurt in an Uber accident in South Carolina, working with a skilled Uber accident lawyer can help you handle your claim and get fair compensation.
Provide Legal Guidance and Support
At McDougall Law Firm, we understand how confusing an Uber accident claim can be. Our Uber accident attorneys explain the insurance policies that apply, the laws that govern rideshare accidents in South Carolina, and what steps to take next. We work to ensure you get the answers and support you need at every step.
Investigate the Accident and Gather Evidence
We collect all the facts and details about your accident. This includes reviewing the police report, talking to witnesses, and looking at photos and medical records. Our team builds a strong case that shows who is at fault and what damages you suffered.
Deal with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible. Our Uber accident attorneys handle all communication with insurance adjusters. We negotiate for a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Represent You in Court if Needed
If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, we are ready to take your Uber accident claim to court. Our attorneys at McDougall Law Firm know how to present your case clearly and effectively to a judge or jury.
Keep You Informed and Involved
We believe in keeping our clients updated and involved in their cases. You will know what is happening with your Uber accident claim and what to expect next. We work for you so you can focus on healing from your injuries.
Contact an Experienced Beaufort Uber Accident Lawyer Today!
If you or someone you care about has been injured in an Uber accident in South Carolina, do not wait to get the help you need. Our team at McDougall Law Firm has the experience and knowledge to handle your Uber accident claim from start to finish.
Contact us at 843-438-4386 for a free claim review today!
