How Do Uber Insurance Policies Work in Illinois?

Our Chicago lawyers know how to build strong Uber insurance claims

Uber accident insurance claims can get complicated fast, especially if you’re not sure which policy applies or who’s responsible for your crash. Illinois law has specific insurance rules for rideshare companies, and unless you know how those laws work, insurance companies may try to downplay your claim or deny it altogether.

That’s why the Chicago Uber accident lawyers at Keating Law Offices are here to help you make sense of it all and fight for every dollar you’re owed. If you were hurt in an Uber crash, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our legal team and get the legal advice you need to move forward.

“I had a great experience working with KLO- I was hit by a car on my bike and I didn’t think anyone would take my case. But they did and it was a great success! I got a very fair settlement in a reasonable amount of time. Plus they were all incredibly helpful! I send all my friends who need help to KLO.” – S.J., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Who is covered by Uber insurance?

In Illinois, Uber offers insurance coverage for drivers, passengers, and third parties. However, Uber could claim that the coverage depends on what the driver was doing in the app at the time of the collision. These cases are very fact-specific and it is important to investigate exhaustively to determine exactly what the driver was doing not just at the moment of a crash, but in the time leading up to the crash.

When the app is turned on

Once the driver turns the app on but hasn’t accepted a ride request yet (this is known as Period 1), Uber insurance coverage applies if the driver causes a crash and injures someone else or damages their property. During this phase, third parties such as other drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians can be covered by Uber’s insurance.

Does Uber cover accidents for drivers?

Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the vehicle (Periods 2 and 3), Uber’s full commercial insurance coverage activates. The Uber driver is now protected under the company’s liability policies. The passenger is also fully covered while they’re in the car. Third parties who might be injured or suffer property damage due to a crash are included as well.

In addition to liability, Uber provides uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This protects both the driver and passenger if another driver causes a crash and doesn’t have enough insurance or any at all.

Uber also offers comprehensive and collision coverage for damage to the driver’s own vehicle, up to its actual cash value and with a deductible. However, that part of the coverage only applies if the driver already carries comprehensive and collision coverage on their personal auto policy.

How do I get started on my Uber accident claim?

The best thing to do is act fast before the insurance companies get leverage over your claim. At the crash scene, get photos of injuries, vehicle damage, and other important details. You’ll also need to call the police and exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved.

After leaving the scene, you should see a doctor (even if you feel fine) and file your claim as soon as possible. Under Illinois law, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. But insurance claims should be reported much sooner, and you should contact a lawyer before evidence disappears and witnesses start to forget certain details.

The Chicago accident lawyers at Keating Law Offices know how Illinois’s rideshare laws work and how to help you cut through the confusion. During your free consultation, we’ll listen to what happened, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. There’s no pressure to hire us, but if you do, we can launch an immediate investigation and gather the facts to support your claim.

Plus, we handle all rideshare injury cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront and we only get paid if we win your case. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we’ll be ready to take your case to court. To find out how we can fight for you, contact us today to schedule your free consultation and let us start building your case.