With more and more riders taking to the ride-sharing companies over the last few years, there are now millions of workers who commute to and from their workplace each day via their service. While no one is debating the convenience and affordability of ride-sharing, then there are times that there are ride-sharing accidents, and everyone is then left wondering: what happens if you are injured in a ride-sharing accident? Can you sue Uber or Lyft legally? You’ll discover here in this article where we set aside rideshare accident statistics and liability facts.
1.What is Rideshare Liability?
Rideshare companies Uber and Lyft consider their drivers independent contractors, not employees. This status is crucial in determining fault in an accident. Recovery of damages on injury while riding Uber or Lyft hinges on the manner by which the accident occurred.
Driver’s Fault: When the accident was caused by the rideshare driver, his and his employer’s fault is questioned.
Yes, Uber or Lyft Fault: Uber or Lyft is also responsible if the accident is caused due to defective app, negligent hiring of employees or negligent operation of business.
- When Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?
Although you cannot realistically sue Uber or Lyft company because the company drivers are independent contractors, you can sue the company on certain grounds for the accident:
Driver Status: If the driver was “on duty” or on-duty driving for Uber or Lyft at the time that he was negligent in causing the accident, company policy will be able to pay for damages.
Company Negligence: If Uber and Lyft had not employed a negligent hiring system when they hired their drivers, or had not taken violent drivers out of service, then the companies are at fault.
- Rideshare Accident Insurance Coverage
Uber and Lyft both offer live driver coverage. It essentially does exactly that: if the individual has an accident driving to pick someone up or to pick up or drop off, commercial insurance on the driver will cover injury, depending on what is happening.
Driver Not on Trip: The driver’s personal car insurance will cover the accident if the driver is not on trip.
On the Ride: As the driver is already end route to pick up the rider or already has the rider in the car, Uber and Lyft insurance will cover the accident based on the state’s location.
Uninsured Motorists: Should the other driver have been at fault and were uninsured, Uber and Lyft uninsured motorist coverage will cover.
- What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, remember the following crucial steps:
Seek Medical Treatment: Even if you don’t think that you are injured, allow the doctor to check you out so that you will absolutely know for certain that you don’t have any hidden injuries.”
Stay at the Accident Scene: Stay at the accident location, get witness statements, and get down the remaining details that will be helpful like any ride-share driver phone numbers present at the accident.
Uber or Lyft Accident Report: Report the accident to Uber or Lyft via their app. Uber and Lyft both have an accident report and claim process through their insurance.
Speak to an Attorney: Rideshare crashes are complicated, and therefore the suggestion is to hire a personal injury lawyer dealing in such law.
- Personal Injury Lawyers Can Use
Humility while hiring a personal injury lawyer means a lot to your case. Preferred personal injury lawyers dealing in rideshare crashes can:
Post-Insurance Claims: Prepare and file a claim to Uber, Lyft, or the fault driver’s insurance company.
Negotiation For You: Our attorneys negotiate for you to negotiate for you reasonable compensation for distress, medical bills, and lost income.
Litigation if Necessary: If your case cannot reasonably be settled by negotiation, your experienced attorney will argue your case in court.
Final Thoughts
It is difficult to sue the company/Uber/Lyft, but it is not at all impossible. You may sue for loss to the driver/company in case of fulfillment of certain conditions. Never ever overlook insurance coverages, do whatever you wish to do after the accident procedure is fully completed, and call an attorney so that your rights will be maintained.
