Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft have become immensely popular in recent years. Affordable and convenient, many people are looking to rideshare drivers to get them from Point A to Point B. These services, however, can have significant liability issues. If you are injured as a passenger of a rideshare vehicle, you should be aware of who may be liable for your accident.
Rideshare Service Insurance Policies
Uber and Lyft both have extensive insurance policies that should cover those who are passengers with the service. If you are a passenger who is injured in an accident due to the fault of the rideshare service driver, you should be protected by the company’s insurance policy. If you are not a customer of the service, but are riding with an Uber or Lyft driver (as a friend, acquaintance, or other non-paying passenger), you are not covered by the Uber/Lyft company insurance policy.
It is possible that the rideshare service will deny your claim, based on the fact that a driver is not technically an employee of the company, but rather an independent contractor. In California, a judge has ruled that it is legal to sue the company, should this situation occur. If you are unable to sue Uber or Lyft directly, you also have the option to sue the driver. This option may not yield adequate compensation, however.
Third Party Passengers
If you are involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle as a third party passenger, and your driver is not at fault, you may be covered by Uber/Lyft insurance policies or the rideshare driver’s personal policy. Your coverage depends on the status of the driver at the time of the accident. If they were driving with the rideshare driver application open (waiting for a passenger, on their way to pick up a passenger, or driving with a passenger), you should be protected by their company insurance policy. If the driver was not currently working as a rideshare driver and the app was closed, their personal insurance is responsible for the liability.
What Can I Do If I Was Injured?
If you have been injured as a passenger in an accident involving a rideshare car, it can be difficult to recover damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Here are some tips to help your claim:
- Check to ensure that all involved parties are uninjured. Call for emergency medical service if needed.
- Contact to police to come and take an accident report.
- Obtain a copy of both drivers’ contact information and insurance information.
- Follow the steps of the rideshare app to report the accident, and work with the representative to complete an accident report with the company.
- Talk to witnesses and get their contact information.
- Take photographs of the scene, both general shots and close-ups. Show the damage and identifying information of the vehicles, such as license plates.
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible, to begin a record of your injuries resulting from the accident. Follow all instructions you doctor provides for your recovery.
- Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who is knowledgeable about the process of Uber or Lyft liability claims.
Get Help From Our Charleston Car Accident Attorneys – (843) 968-0886
If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC. Since 1999, out experienced and knowledgeable car accident lawyers have worked tirelessly to protect the rights of our injured clients. Discover how we can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. Contact our team by calling (843) 968-0886.