Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft have undergone a massive rise in popularity recently. With their increasing prevalence in nearly every American city, the chances of getting into a car accident involving a ridesharing vehicle have also gone up, whether you're a passenger, a pedestrian, or a driver.
Both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million insurance policies for car accident injuries and property damage, but this coverage is limited in how and when it applies. If you were injured in an accident involving a ridesharing vehicle, whether as an Uber or Lyft driver, the driver of another car, a passenger, or a pedestrian, experienced car accident attorney Ray Areshenko could help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Who is Liable if the Uber or Lyft Driver is at Fault for the Car Accident?
Uber's and Lyft's complicated liability policies take effect if one of their drivers is at fault in an accident involving a pedestrian or another car. These rules also apply to passengers in ridesharing vehicles. Responsibility for the accident varies based on when the accident occurs:
- When an Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into their app, the companies don't cover them. If a ridesharing driver is at fault for an accident during this period, you can pursue a claim through their personal car insurance company.
- When an Uber or Lyft driver is logged into the app but hasn't accepted a ride, ridesharing companies provide limited coverage. They offer up to $50,000 per person injured in an accident, $100,000 in total injury liability, and $25,000 in property damage liability.
- When an Uber or Lyft driver has accepted a ride and is on the way to pick them up, the full $1 million of liability coverage kicks in.
- When a passenger has entered the Uber or Lyft, the $1 million liability policy also applies.
What Happens in an Uber or Lyft Car Accident When the Other Driver is at Fault?
If you're a ridesharing driver or passenger, and another driver is responsible for an accident in which you're involved, the process plays out like any other car accident for which you're not responsible. You may pursue a claim from that driver's insurance company for damages that may include:
- Current and future medical bills
- Lost wages and work benefits
- Diminished future earning potential
- Rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Ridesharing companies also provide limited uninsured motorist coverage to protect their drivers and passengers from people who don't carry car insurance. This kicks in when a passenger enters the Uber or Lyft.
It's also crucial that Uber and Lyft drivers inform their personal car insurance provider that they work as ridesharing drivers. Otherwise, the insurance company may terminate the plan and deny valid claims following a car accident. This could leave a ridesharing driver with no avenue to recover any sort of compensation, even if they bear no responsibility for the crash.
Schedule Your Reno Car Accident Lawyer Consultation Today
Ray Areshenko is one of Nevada and California's top rising lawyers. He is dedicated to helping his clients find justice and recover the compensation they deserve. Mr. Areshenko is licensed to practice in all Nevada and California courts. Start building your case by calling 775-300-7594 (NV) or 916-800-6090 (CA) for a free consultation with REA Law. We serve clients in and around Reno - Sparks and throughout Nevada. REA Law also has offices in Sacramento servicing California.
