Who’s Liable If You’re In An Accident While Riding In An Uber Or Lyft?

You can walk, take a cab, or use Uber/Lyft. But what if you're in one of those vehicles and get into an accident? Who is responsible? The answer may not be as straightforward as you believe.
Whos-Liable-If-Youre-In-An-Accident-While-Riding-In-An-Uber-Or-Lyft

When you’re out on the town, you have a few various modes of transportation to go from point A to point B. You can walk, take a cab, or use Uber/Lyft. But what if you’re in one of those vehicles and get into an accident? Who is responsible? The answer may not be as straightforward as you believe.

In the United States, Uber and Lyft are two of the most popular ridesharing services. Both corporations have been involved in several scandals and litigation in recent years. One of the most notable was an accident involving an Uber driver and a pedestrian in March 2018.

Elaine Herzberg, the victim, was crossing the street in Tempe, Arizona, when an Uber driver fatally struck her. The incident generated heated debate over ridesharing services and their drivers’ safety.

Uber and Lyft have been involved in several high-profile accidents since their beginning. Passengers and drivers have sued the ridesharing giants for injuries and damages, even though the businesses have consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Uber has been named in more than 100 lawsuits, while Lyft has been named in about 60. The entire value of these lawsuits exceeds $1 billion, and many of them are still pending in the courts. These cases have raised public awareness about the dangers of ridesharing and the monetary damages given to plaintiffs.

Accidents involving Uber/Lyft and Liability

Who is responsible if you are harmed in an accident while using a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft? Is it the vehicle’s driver, the ridesharing firm, or both?

Both the driver and the firm are usually held accountable. Companies that use ridesharing services must have insurance coverage that includes $1 million in liability coverage per event. It means that if you’re hurt in a car accident, you could be able to sue both the driver and the firm.

Liability of the Driver

The ridesharing market has exploded in recent years, with companies like Uber and Lyft connecting drivers and customers. While this has been a fantastic advancement for many, it also carries its own set of hazards and obligations. Who is responsible for damages in the event of an accident? Which is more important: the driver or the company?

The topic of driver liability in uber and Lyft accident claims is debatable. Both companies’ drivers are classified as independent contractors, absolving them of all liability in the event of an accident. However, there have been few instances where drivers have been sued for damages following an accident.

An uber driver was engaged in an accident that resulted in the death of a six-year-old girl. The driver was charged with wrongful death, and the case is still pending in court. Uber might be held liable for damages if the driver is proven to be at fault.

However, in some situations, the firms may be held accountable for damages. You might be eligible to bring a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft if you get harmed in an accident caused by one of its drivers.

Liability of the Company

Uber and Lyft both have a $1 million liability insurance policy for their drivers. When a driver is transporting a passenger, has the app open and is accessible to pick up a passenger, or is on the way to pick up a passenger, this insurance coverage kicks in. This policy also applies when a driver is engaged in an accident that is not their fault.

However, there are some significant differences between the policies of the two companies. For example, Uber’s coverage only covers incidents while the driver is on their way to or from a passenger. Lyft, on the other hand, has a policy that protects both drivers and passengers for the duration of the ride.

Knowing which company’s coverage would apply if you’re hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident is crucial. You may also be eligible for compensation from any other parties involved in the accident.

If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you can submit a claim with the driver’s insurance company and Uber or Lyft. It’s essential to keep in mind that these companies will almost certainly try to dismiss your claim.

Personal Injury Lawyers Garcia and Phan can help you.

It is critical to understand your rights in the event of an accident, and speaking with an attorney is the best way to do so. In the event of an accident, Garcia and Phan Law Firm can assist you in determining who is responsible and what steps you need to take to preserve your rights. Call us at 714.586.8298 to schedule your free initial consultation.

Share:

More Posts

Send Us A Message

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW FOR A NO-OBLIGATION REVIEW OF YOUR CASE

Free Case Evaluation

By clicking on Submit button, I consent to Garcia & Phan firm for collecting my details.