Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, can be key in helping people – especially those in metropolitan areas – to get from one place to another. But while these two companies, founded in 2011 and 2012 respectively, have grown to become some of the most successful startups of all time, they are not perfect. In fact, sometimes accidents occur along the way. If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, you should consult with a dedicated car accident attorney to discuss your options for compensation.
Injured in an Uber Accident?
Although there is still much to be determined regarding the regulations and legality surrounding ridesharing companies, one of the biggest issues that some riders must currently contend with is what to do when your ridesharing vehicle has been involved in an accident and you are injured.
Usually, when it comes to accidents, the at-fault driver is the one who is responsible for damages. But in certain situations, the ridesharing company’s own car insurance coverage may apply.
In a situation involving an accident with your ridesharing vehicle, your driver’s car insurance would apply to your injuries. However, this is only the case if your driver has a commercial policy or a car insurance policy that has a clause providing for insurance should they be engaged as a ridesharing driver. Unfortunately for those injured, this is not usually the case.
Liability Insurance Coverage
When the at-fault ridesharing driver does not have this type of policy, the passenger will then look to the ridesharing company’s third-party liability insurance coverage. This coverage pays up to $1 million per accident for property damages and personal injuries. However, the only way that this policy would apply would be if the ridesharing driver’s insurance policy (should they have one) fails to adequately compensate you.
If your ridesharing driver is not at fault, but a third-party driver is, you would look to the latter’s car insurance policy or you would recover from a personal injury lawsuit.
UI/UIM Insurance
Should you find yourself in a situation where despite all of the above you are still not fully compensated, the ridesharing company’s uninsured/underinsured (UI/UIM) insurance coverage would take effect. This also usually provides for $1 million in coverage per accident.
Although many continue to contest the legality, Uber and Lyft hold their drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This often saves the ridesharing companies from liability for their drivers’ negligence, making it more difficult to go through them directly instead of through their liability of UIM coverage.
Since the issues surrounding ridesharing services are quite complex and somewhat confusing, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable personal injury attorney.
If You Were Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident, Consult Our Experienced Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been injured in a ridesharing car accident, it can have a big impact on your life – physically, emotionally, and especially financially. That is why you deserve an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the law and knows how it works. An attorney can help gather the requested police reports and medical records. It is important to have someone in your corner – especially to deal with insurance companies.
At Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC, we work with our clients to fight for what it is that they deserve. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!
Tagged with: personal injury
Posted in: Car Accident, Ridesharing Accident