Car Accident Lawyer

More and more, rideshare methods are becoming a common way to travel. Rather than take a taxi or public transportation, people are using Uber and Lyft on vacations, on business trips or even for getting around their own hometowns. These vehicles are subject to the same risks on the road as any other automobile. Accidents can occur while riding in one, whether the fault is another driver’s or the person operating the Uber or Lyft you are traveling in. There are some differences between these incidents and those in other cars.

How They Work

Unlike a taxi or bus, a rideshare driver is operating his or her personal vehicle, not one owned by the company. Uber and Lyft hire freelancers, who then pick up passengers in the area who schedule pickups using a smartphone app. Both Uber and Lyft have insurance on the vehicle while the driver is operating it for the company. On top of that, the driver must also carry personal auto insurance.

Who Covers What?

Auto accidents can be complicated, but they are often cut and dried when it comes to determining who is at fault. The same is the case for what auto insurance will pay claims. For Uber and Lyft accidents, these matters work a little differently. If another driver collides with a rideshare vehicle, and you are injured, you should file a claim with that person’s insurance. However, if the Uber or Lyft driver is to blame for the accident, one or two insurance companies may get involved. Uber, for example, carries up to $1 million in insurance per incident if there is a passenger in the car or if the driver is on the way to pick someone up. If a rideshare driver hits another vehicle, causing injuries, the policy will pay up to $50,000 for injuries and $25,000 for property damage. Though a driver’s personal insurance may cover more than this, as an injured passenger, you may have to go through Uber or Lyft first.

At Attorneys Help

If you are injured in or by a rideshare vehicle, you should contact an experienced car accident lawyer, like from Davis & Brusca, right away. Your lawyer will have the knowledge and training to work directly with the insurance companies to protect your interests.

Uber and Lyft insurance policies are designed to protect the companies. You will need someone on your side who will make sure you get the settlement you deserve.