There are many advantages to rideshare programs like Lyft and Uber, including the fact that they provide an easy way to get home without drinking and driving. However, they are not without their downsides. In short, it is still possible to be involved in a car accident when traveling in a Lyft or Uber. Keep reading to learn what a passenger’s options are if they are injured in a rideshare accident, and then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to request a free legal consultation.
The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company Will Likely Cover the Cost of Your Damages
As is true in most car accidents, the insurance company of the at-fault party will likely be responsible for compensating you for your injuries and property damage. However, if the rideshare driver was the party at fault, then there is a question of whether their personal insurance will cover you or if the rideshare company’s insurance will cover you.
The Rideshare Driver’s Insurance
Unless the rideshare driver has a specific commercial insurance policy or a special provision to cover them when driving for a rideshare company, their insurance likely does not cover the accident. Why? Because most policies have a business use exemption that rules out coverage if the driver was acting as a for-profit driver.
The main exception to this is if the driver was not logged in with Uber or Lyft, or if they were on their way to or from a ride when they caused an accident. However, if you were a passenger in their vehicle, they should have been working for a rideshare company.
The Rideshare Company’s Insurance
In most cases, your injuries will be covered by the third party liability insurance coverage Uber and Lyft carry on their drivers. This policy is good for up to $1 million for injuries and property damage per accident. In the event that the driver’s insurance is applicable, this policy can kick in after that insurance is exhausted. If their personal insurance does not cover them while driving, then this policy will be the primary policy.
Someone Else’s Insurance
Of course, in some situations, the rideshare driver might not be responsible at all – a third party might be. In that case, their insurance company would be the company to sue. If they do not have insurance, or the insurance is not enough to cover serious injuries, then the rideshare company’s $1 million uninsured/underinsured coverage might kick in.
The best way to know for sure who is responsible for paying for your damages is to contact a personal injury attorney to request a free legal consultation. You can do that by calling The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 right away.
