Uber has become a way of life in New York. But do you ever think what would happen if you were in an accident in an Uber, or with an Uber driver?
New York State requires that Uber drivers carry personal insurance policies in addition to the limited coverage that Uber provides to them. Sounds simple, but when and how much of an insurance policy applies depends on what the driver was doing and where they were at the time of the accident.
If the driver’s app is off, then their personal auto policy applies, and any claims would be handled through their insurance company directly.
If the app is on, but there are no passengers, drivers must be insured for a specific amount for bodily injury per person, bodily injury per accident and property damage per accident. The insurance requirements increase once the driver is en-route to pick up passengers and during trips.
New York City requirements for these drivers is even stricter. The City requires that Uber drivers have the same liability insurance as taxis, which means they must have a commercial liability policy under their own personal insurance.
The important thing to remember is whether you are in an accident with an Uber driver or are a passenger in the vehicle, the coverage is all dependent on whether the driver is “working” at the time of the accident.
If you are in an accident, whether it be an Uber or any other vehicle, call us. We will handle the insurance issues while you focus on your day-to-day activities.
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