Most Common Rideshare Accident Questions

Uber or Lyft Rideshare Car Accident

Rideshare services are a convenience for many people. The biggest companies include Uber, which serves 91 million consumers in 63 countries1, and Lyft, one of many such companies in the U.S. Unfortunately, far too many Lyft and Uber accidents occur due to speeding, tailgating, running stop signs, tired driving, using a phone while driving, weather conditions, and even drunk driving. The question many people have in these instances is what they can get out of, for example, an Uber accident settlement.

Here are some common questions to consider if you are thinking about filing an Uber lawsuit:

What Types of Insurance Do Uber/Lyft Drivers Carry?

Both companies have liability coverage, while drivers can use their own insurance policies in some cases. Lyft and Uber insurance provides varying coverage depending on the stage of service at the time of an accident. The breakdown is as follows:

  • For drivers not working, and the app is off (No App Status): A driver’s regular insurance policy applies.
  • The app is on and the driver hasn’t accepted a ride (On Duty But Waiting for a Ride Status): Company coverage of up to $50,000 for bodily injury and $25,000 for damaged property. The insurance also provides coverage for $100,000 per accident.
  • Between ride matching and dropping the passenger off (Prearranged Ride Status): $1 million of primary liability coverage (injury/death/property damage) and $1 million for uninsured and underinsured motorists.

What Happens If My Driver Is Responsible for an Accident?

You are not considered at fault in most cases and the driver’s insurance through the company will likely cover the damages. Any negligent driver is liable for your injuries. That can change depending on the nature of the accident and whether a passenger can be found at fault to any degree.

What If Another Driver Is Responsible for My Uber/Lyft Driver’s Accident?

If the other driver is insured, their insurance should pay for any injuries and damages they caused. If your rideshare car accident was caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, Uber and Lyft have policies that can kick in. This situation can get complicated. In dealing with multiple insurance companies, they may band together and end up offering a lower rideshare settlement.

What Happens If My Rideshare Driver Causes an Accident Without A Passenger?

Their company’s primary liability coverage will cover any damages if the driver was on their way to pick someone up. If the accident occurred before the driver was matched, their personal insurance policies must provide coverage. However, if they don’t have enough coverage, Uber and Lyft have insurance to cover the damages to some extent. Getting fair accident compensation if you’ve been involved in a crash with a rideshare vehicle without a passenger can therefore be challenging.

Can I File a Lawsuit Against Uber or Lyft for Damages?

It is possible. The requirements for filing a rideshare lawsuit against these companies vary with the type of accident and facts of your individual case. Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors. Legally, this may not apply 100%, so drivers can be liable in a ridesharing lawsuit. Who you can sue all depends on the case.

Does Uber or Lyft Apply Coverage to Pedestrians?

If an Uber driver isn’t paying attention or is speeding, pedestrians can be put in danger. When a pedestrian is hit by an Uber driver, the driver can be held responsible; the company can as well. It’s rare for a pedestrian to be held accountable in a Lyft/Uber lawsuit, but you may have access to the company’s insurance coverage if the driver is found negligent.

What Are the Legal Options for Rideshare Drivers in an Accident?

Uber driver liability depends on the circumstances of the accident. The driver isn’t always the responsible party; they can be cut off, sideswiped, or hit from behind. If in an accident with another car, a driver can take legal action against the responsible party and get compensation for a rideshare accident from that party’s insurance company. If the other motorist was uninsured/underinsured, the driver can turn to Uber. The company’s policy can then pay for some of the costs of vehicle damage or medical bills.

Can I Receive Compensation from an Uber or Lyft Lawsuit?

You can receive compensation for pain and suffering, damages, medical bills, lost wages, and more. With the help of an attorney, a rideshare accident settlement can improve your odds of getting the payout you deserve. It can include things like loss of income earning potential, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. If your injuries are severe or permanent, your case could be worth $1 million or more.

What Should I Do After a Ridesharing Accident?

The best Lyft/Uber lawsuit tips we can provide is to be diligent after an accident. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911; seek medical care in any case as injuries may not be immediately obvious and medical reports can be used to back your claim. Get a police report, exchange contact and insurance information with other parties involved, and contact your insurance company. Hire a lawyer if you suffered an injury; they can negotiate out of cheap settlement offers, deal with insurance companies, and increase your lawsuit payout.

Contact The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani

Our legal team is familiar with California ridesharing law and can help in filing your Lyft or Uber lawsuit. If an Uber driver in California is responsible for your injuries or damages, contact us right away and we will help with every aspect of your case. Whether your accident occurred in Los Angeles or anywhere else in the state, we’ll provide the representation you deserve and fight for your rights—and a fair settlement! Call 888-952-2952 today for your free consultation.

Source:

https://www.uber.com/en-PK/newsroom/company-info/

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