The introduction of rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft have offered a new way to get from one place to another. Rather than driving, asking a friend for a ride, or using public transportation, a person can simply pull out their phone, request a ride, and quickly have a driver on the way to pick them up and take them to their destination. Although the services of Lyft and Uber are certainly convenient, using rideshare is not necessarily safe. It is important to remember that Uber and Lyft drivers are not professionals, and can be involved in a car accident just as easily as any other driver on the road. If you have been injured in a collision as a passenger of Lyft or Uber, or if you collided with a rideshare driver, it is crucial to be aware of your rights.

Lyft and Uber Insurance

Uber and Lyft have insurance plans in place that are meant to provide coverage to people who are injured in car accidents involving their drivers. Both companies’ policies provide $50,000 in injury coverage per person, $100,000 in injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage per accident, which applies while the driver is accepting rides but does not currently have a passenger. When a driver does have a passenger, they are covered by $1,000,000 in insurance.

If You Were Injured as a Passenger

As a passenger of Lyft or Uber, you should be covered by their insurance policies. You may also be able to file a claim with the driver’s personal insurance company. The other driver who was involved in the accident may be able to provide compensation as well, depending on the details of your case.

If You Were Injured By Colliding with a Rideshare Driver

If you were driving your own car and were involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft vehicle, your case will proceed similarly to any car accident claim — you will need to demonstrate that they were at fault for your injuries. Your claim may be with the rideshare company’s insurance or with the driver’s personal insurance provider.

Is Uber or Lyft Liable for My Injuries?

Following a rideshare accident, many people believe they can sue Lyft or Uber. However, injury victims are often surprised to find that the rideshare company may not have any liability for their damages.

Why is this? The employment classification of Uber and Lyft drivers is generally to blame. Drivers are considered “independent contractors” rather than employees of these companies. Therefore, Uber and Lyft are legally separated from the actions of their drivers. It is most likely that your claim will involve Lyft or Uber’s insurance company, or the driver’s insurance company. It is rare for a rideshare company to be directly involved in this type of litigation.

The Zambrano Law Firm legal team can help if you or a loved one were injured in a Lyft or Uber accident. We understand the complexities of rideshare accidents and are here to share our knowledge with you.

To schedule a free consultation with our attorneys, complete our contact form or call (956) 627-0908.