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Rideshare applications such as Lyft and Uber help us reach our destinations with ease and comfort. However, there are unfortunate circumstances where passengers experience car accidents while using the application. In these cases, you may pursue a car accident claim against the mobile application company to be compensated for the injuries caused by the accident.

Suppose you find yourself in a similar situation. In that case, you must do the following to help you sort out your rideshare accident:

  • determine who is responsible for the accident, 
  • identify the steps to handle the case,
  • negotiate the total compensation of your accident claim.

Who Can I Sue In A Rideshare Accident?

Usually, the most common question in rideshare accidents is “who is at fault” and “who can we press charges against.” The answer varies depending on the nature of your case.

It is possible that the rideshare driver caused the accident. In that case, you may file a claim against the company the driver is affiliated with. However, this may change if the driver was not working at the time of the accident.

Meanwhile, you may pursue a case against another driver if the crash was due to someone else’s negligence.

The Rideshare Driver

If you are hit by a Lyft or Uber driver while they are off the clock, then you may be compensated with their auto insurance.

Before hiring a driver, rideshare companies ensure that they have their own auto insurance to cover the vehicle damages, especially when using the vehicle beyond their working hours. When you are hit by a rideshare driver, make sure to:

  • Determine if they are working during the time of the accident
  • Ask for their contact information
  • Note their auto insurance provider

The Rideshare Company

You may file a claim against the rideshare company if you are involved in a car crash due to the Lyft or Uber driver’s wrongdoings while utilizing the mobile application.

These mobile rideshare applications are mandated to carry insurance worth one million dollars ($1,000,000) for bodily injuries, property damage, or wrongful death from a car accident caused by their driver during mobile operations. Aside from the insurance, you may also seek monetary awards when you win a lawsuit against the company, especially in severe cases such as a wrongful death claim.

You may pursue a rideshare accident claim against the rideshare company under these circumstances:

  • The driver’s mobile application is turned on during the accident and is waiting for a ride request
  • The driver has accepted a ride request and is waiting for a passenger
  • The driver is on their way to pick up the passenger
  • The driver has the passenger on and is on their way to their destination

Another Driver

You may sometimes experience a rideshare accident caused by another driver’s negligence. In this case, you may file a claim against the other driver. You may calculate the total damages and pursue an accident claim against the driver liable for the car collision.

What Insurance Covers Rideshare Accidents?

If you find yourself in a rideshare accident caused by the Lyft and Uber driver’s negligence, the mobile applications have their auto insurance policy to secure compensation for the crash victims.

When a Lyft or Uber driver has the application on and is waiting for a ride request during the accident, you are entitled to these coverages:

  • Amounting to $50,000 in bodily injury per person
  • Up to $100,000  in bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage per accident

Meanwhile, when the rideshare driver is on route to pick up the passenger or has the occupants on the vehicle going to their destination, you may claim:

  • Up to $1,000,000 from the third-party auto liability policy
  • Uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance, comprehensive insurance, and/or collision insurance for drivers who choose to maintain the coverage under their auto insurance.

What to Do in a Rideshare Accident

It is understandable that you may feel frustrated and overwhelmed when you are involved in a rideshare accident. In this case, you may follow these steps to help you resolve the situation:

  • Check if you have injuries. 
  • Call 911 immediately.
  • If you can move freely, gather substantial evidence such as the rideshare driver’s information, company, and license.
  • Report the accident to Lyft or Uber. This will help build your case.
  • Do not accept any compensation from the company without a legal advice
  • Contact a rideshare accident lawyer to pursue a claim against the company

Does Lyft or Uber Have Existing Cases Where the Victim Wins?

In 2015, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed against Uber after a driver killed a six-year-old child in San Francisco on December 31, 2013. The kid, her brother, and her mother were in a crosswalk when the Uber driver hit them while using the application without passengers on board. Uber and the family settled with an award and compensation. Aside from this case, there are other claims against the rideshare company, including a bicyclist’s wrongful death.

Do I Need a Rideshare Accident Laywer?

When you are involved in an accident caused by a Lyft or Uber driver and want to pursue a claim against the rideshare company, you may seek a legal expert’s help. You may encounter specific challenges, especially if you are fighting against large companies such as Lyft and Uber. Complexities of a rideshare claim may include:

In such instances, it is highly suggested that you reach out to a rideshare accident lawyer who can help you sort out your case. The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker understands insurance policies and coverage involved in rideshare accidents and can offer assistance to help you claim the total value of your accident case. Call 866-537-2488 or submit your case online today for a free consultation.