Understanding Liability When A Rideshare Driver Hits Your Vehicle
When you are involved in a car accident with another vehicle, you typically receive coverage through your insurance policy and, perhaps, the other driver’s insurance policy.
However, things get a bit tricky when your vehicle is involved with a collision by someone who is driving on behalf of Uber, Lyft or another ridesharing service.
At Gregory S. Young Co., LPA, we have been providing skilled legal representation to accident victims throughout Ohio and Kentucky for more than 50 years. Our lawyers understand how to build an effective case geared to help you recover the financial compensation.
Is Uber or Lyft Legally Liable For My Car Accident?
Both Uber and Lyft provide insurance for their drivers for damages of up to $1 million. This amount is significantly more than what most people carry under a personal auto insurance policy. However, the coverage only applies from the moment a driver accepts a ride request through a company’s app until the transaction is complete, either through the app or when a passenger is dropped off, whichever occurs later. If the crash occurs between trips, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy will likely not apply. That said, the driver’s personal insurance policy should provide some coverage.
Can I Sue Uber Or Lyft For Damages?
If damages from the accident exceed the $1 million limit under Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy, it can be tempting to sue these companies for additional damages. However, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, not employees. Classifying their drivers as such limits the companies’ liability in these types of cases.
Learn more about Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare accidents.
24 Hours A Day, 7 Days A Week – We Are Ready To Help
Other rules, exceptions and limitations may also apply to other ridesharing companies, which is why it is important to always seek legal help so you can choose the best path to full financial recovery.
Please contact us online or call 513-838-4562 in Cincinnati, 888-469-6437 in Dayton or Kentucky to schedule your free initial consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available. If attainable, damage recovery can help you with medical expenses, pain and suffering and even lost wages from missing work