Rideshare accidents are popping up more frequently around the United States, especially in big cities like #Atlanta, as such services become more common. We’ve previously talked about what to do if you’re involved in a rideshare accident while on a trip as a passenger. For that information, click here.
Now, we want to address being involved in a rideshare accident when you’re not a passenger. This could mean you are a pedestrian or another driver on the road. There have been a few of these cases across the nation and the details can be confusing. We’ve broke it down into simple terms for better understanding.
If you are in a car crash with a rideshare driver or are otherwise personally injured by an Uber or Lyft driver when they are off duty, the companies one-million-dollar insurance policy does not come into play. Instead, the claim would be against the driver’s personal policy.
If you are in a car crash with an Uber or Lyft driver or are otherwise personally injured by a rideshare driver when they are on duty, but they do not have a passenger in the car at the time of the incident, the company’s insurance policy does not come into play here either. Again, the claim would be against the driver themselves.
If you are in a car crash with a rideshare driver or are otherwise personally injured by a rideshare driver while they have a passenger, the company’s insurance will come into play.
When lawsuits occur regarding rideshare accidents, many times you are going after the driver rather than the company itself. Rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees, so therefore the company tends to deny any legal liability for any type of accident involving their drivers.
Anytime an accident of any kind occurs, be sure to call 911 for a police report and seek medical attention for any injuries obtained in the accident. Take pictures of the scene and if there are any witnesses, get their information. Seek legal representation for accurate and precise help regarding rideshare accidents.
Contact Kaufman Law for FREE consultations.