What to do if you are ever in an accident with an Uber or Lyft?

Ridesharing services are provided by companies that connect independent drivers of their own vehicles to those seeking local transportation. Similar to that of a taxi service, however, ridesharing services have emerged dominant in most cities due to the convenience and typically lower fares that conventional taxis cannot afford to compete against. Some of the biggest names in the space include Uber and Lyft. Names that are practically synonymous with rideshare services.

Along with the emergence and ever growing prevalence of rideshare services, we have also seen a significant number of controversies arise. Many of which surround accidents involving rideshare vehicles. Issues related to these controversies have left many confused and unsure of how to proceed if ever in an accident.

Getting into an accident with a rideshare vehicle is, for the most the most part, the same as any other car accident. For more information regarding that topic you can read: (I got into a car accident – what do I do now?). What may differ however in many cases involves how the insurance is treated and applied to rideshare vehicles.

Here are some things to consider if you find yourself involved on either side of a ridesharing accident.

1. Uber and Lyft do require their drivers to provide proof of insurance, however, insurance companies have been known to cancel policies upon learning that the covered vehicle was being operated for commercial purposes.
2. Drivers for Uber and Lyft are designated as independent contractors due to the fact that drivers are operating their personal vehicles. Companies such as Uber and Lyft also claim that they only exist to provide a platform to connect drivers and passengers; meaning that these companies can avoid any claims made against them involving their drivers.
3. Uber and Lyft both do have $1 million dollar liability insurance policies in place for cases where serious damage has occurred either physically or to one’s property (vehicle). However, there is no guarantee that you will be fully covered, even if you do qualify for compensation through Uber and Lyft’s liability policies.

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If you were injured in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, contact the experienced and trusted team at Leon Law PLLC to learn about more options. Accidents do happen, it is for your benefit to have the support and peace of mind you need when they do.

Contact us for a FREE consultation on your case at (480) 269-1083 or email info@leonlawpllc.com.