If you’ve ever used a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, you know how convenient it can be. With just a few taps on your phone, you can have a car pick you up and take you where you need to go. But what happens if you’re in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft? Who is liable for your injuries?
Figuring out who is responsible for a rideshare accident can be complicated. Generally speaking, there are a few different parties that could potentially be liable, including:
The Driver – If the rideshare driver caused the accident due to negligent driving, they could be held responsible for any injuries or damages that occur as a result.
The Rideshare Company – Uber and Lyft carry liability insurance that covers accidents that occur while a driver is carrying a passenger. Depending on the circumstances, the company could be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur.
Third Parties – If another driver or party causes the accident, they would be held responsible for any damages or injuries that occur.
It’s worth noting that determining liability can be complicated, and it’s important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that your rights are protected.
If you’re involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft, there are a few steps you should take to protect yourself:
Get Medical Attention – Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor to make sure that there aren’t any underlying injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
Contact the Police – If the accident was serious, you’ll want to contact the police to file a report. This will help with insurance claims and any potential lawsuits that may arise from the accident.
Document the Scene – Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to the cars and any injuries that you or your passengers sustained.
Contact an Attorney – It’s important to work with an attorney who has experience handling rideshare accident cases. They can help you navigate the complicated liability issues and ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact Your Insurance Company – Even if you weren’t driving, you should still contact your insurance company to let them know about the accident. They may be able to help with medical bills or other expenses that arise as a result of the accident.
If you’re injured in a rideshare accident, there are a few different types of damages that you may be able to recover:
Medical Expenses – This includes any medical bills or expenses that you incur as a result of the accident, including ambulance rides, hospital stays, and physical therapy.
Lost Wages – If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover lost wages.
Pain and Suffering – This refers to physical and emotional pain and suffering that you experience as a result of the accident.
Property Damage – If your personal property, like your car or phone, is damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Wrongful Death – If a loved one is killed in a rideshare accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages.
FAQs
Are Uber and Lyft Drivers Considered Employees?
Not necessarily. Both Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, which means they’re responsible for handling their own taxes and expenses. This also means that the companies are not liable for accidents that occur while drivers are not actively engaged in a ride.
Do I Need to File a Lawsuit to Recover Damages?
Not necessarily. In many cases, rideshare accident cases can be settled out of court. However, it’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you negotiate a fair settlement with the rideshare company or their insurance carrier.
Uber and Lyft both carry liability insurance that covers accidents that occur while a driver is carrying a passenger. If the driver does not have insurance, the ride-sharing companies carry a backup policy that can cover any injuries or damages that occur.
In some cases, it may be possible to sue the rideshare company for negligent hiring if the driver has a history of unsafe driving or criminal activity. However, these cases can be complicated, and it’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process.
Conclusion
Getting injured in a rideshare accident can be a confusing and stressful experience, but it’s important to remember that you have rights. By working with an experienced attorney and taking the steps outlined above, you can get the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.
