The popularity of rideshares as a means to get from point A to B is growing in popularity across the country. Companies such as Uber and Lyft have seen an increase in customers who appreciate the convenience of being picked up or dropped off at their destinations using an app on their phones and the drivers, many of whom that are new to the profession of public transportation, also welcome the opportunity to make money in the gig marketplace.
Although rideshares services have become popular with passengers and drivers alike, it is important to remember that there is always the risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident whether you are driving on your own or are a passenger in another car. When passengers are injured in a rideshare accident many are left wondering who will compensate them for damages which may include costly medical bills, lost wages from missed work, or pain and suffering resulting form the accident.
When you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident that is another driver’s fault, a claim may be filed against the driver’s insurance company to recover damages, which will be limited to the coverage they carry. However, when the negligent or at fault driver is the Uber or Lyft operator, recovering compensation is more complicated as many insurance policies apply to personal use of a vehicle only. IN other words, if the driver was working at the time of the accident, the insurance company may deny the claim.
In the absence of the driver’s insurance or in cases where the driver’s insurance comes up short, injured parties may be able to seek compensation through the rideshare company who typically offer some level of insurance coverage to their drivers. Keep in mind, however, that the maximum coverage may not be enough to cover all of your damages and certainly the insurance company will attempt to reduce your claim to protect their bottom line.
Worst case scenario: In the event that your claim is denied by the insurer/s or the compensation you receive is woefully insufficient to cover your damages, it is possible to pursue a claim against the driver who may have assets to bridge the gap.
Attorney Marc Humphrey’s has over 35 years of knowledge and hands-on experience to be able to understand what approaches are best suited for each case. He applies all the nuances of the art of trial — including not only the legal and procedural intricacies, but also the practical ramifications of emotions, social interaction and other aspects of persuading a jury. You can rely on him to devote the highest level of care, preparation and attention to your case.
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When you or a family member is involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, it is critically important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident to preserve your rights. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you at every stage of your case to maximize the compensation you will receive. Contact rideshare accident lawyer Marc A. Humphrey at 515-310-3135 for a free evaluation of your case.
