Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Central Texas – and around the world. They are a great way to avoid the hassle of driving and parking, and they eliminate the need to designate a driver. The more prevalent these services become, however, the more accidents that occur. When an accident involves an Uber or Lyft vehicle, it can blur the lines in relation to how best to proceed with an accident claim. Knowing the basics can help. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, you need an experienced Central Texas personal injury lawyer.
Insurance and Rideshare Companies
Companies like Uber and Lyft continue to expand their reach, and as more and more rideshare drivers take to our roads, it is only natural that the number of rideshare accidents also increases. When accidents occur, insurance comes into play, but this is where things can become complicated.
Because Uber and Lyft drivers use their own vehicles, they are covered under their own insurance policies and, in some cases, under the ridesharing company’s insurance as well. The insurance policy on which victims can make a claim depends on the circumstances under which the crash took place.
On Duty and Carrying Passengers
If the rideshare driver is on duty and is either carrying a fare or is in route to pick up a fare, both Uber and Lyft cover their drivers with a $1,000,000 liability policy. This means that if an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident and you are injured, you can recover up to $1,000,000 in damages from the ridesharing company for which the driver was working.
On Duty and Not Carrying Passengers
When Lyft and Uber drivers have the app active and are waiting for a ride request, both companies provide liability coverage in the amount of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident.
Off Duty
When rideshare drivers are off duty – even if they just recently went off the clock – they are not driving for the rideshare company. As such, any ensuing accident is covered by the driver’s personal insurance – in the same manner that any other noncommercial accident would be.
If you have been hurt in an accident caused by a ridesharing driver, it’s important that you take certain steps to protect your rights. These include the following:
Get the driver’s name and license plate number
Ask witnesses for contact information
Undergo a thorough medical evaluation
Do not accept a settlement offer before you speak to an attorney
Call a lawyer as soon as you can.