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You might wonder, as a passenger, whether you can file a claim if your Uber, Lyft, or taxi driver was in a car accident.
You could make a claim if your Uber, Lyft, or taxi driver was in a car accident. The liable party will depend on what was happening at the time.
Rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, are relatively new transport options. Typically, your ride home will be quick, safe, and convenient. Unfortunately, accidents do happen. You could have a right to compensation, but the situation can get complicated.
Taxi Cab Accident Victims Can Rely on the Driver’s or the Company’s Insurance
In taxi accidents, the situation is reasonably clear-cut. A taxi company is a commercial operation and should have the relevant insurance. If they don’t, take them to court.
Taxi companies are services passengers contract in good faith. No matter how many cars are involved, you can file a third-party claim and let the insurance companies sort it out.
Uber and Lyft Accident Victims do Not Have to Pay Out of Pocket
The majority of rideshare drivers are safe and competent. Nevertheless, there are bound to be a few accidents.
Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors (although this status is under constant review). Your rideshare driver should have a personal insurance policy, but this might exclude accidents that happen when they use their vehicle for business purposes. This would mean you could not claim against the driver’s policy.
Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that could benefit you, though. They each take accidents into account at different stages of the ride. When you are in the vehicle and the driver’s app is on, you are covered for up to $1 million in damages.
What You Should Do After a Taxi or Rideshare Accident
In an accident, the question arises as to who is responsible in your case. Do you make a claim using your policy, the other driver’s (if it was their fault), or on your rideshare company’s policy? Immediately after a car accident, you should ensure that everyone involved is safe. Then, call for help, if necessary. Next, seek legal aid.
Keep all documents related to the incident and take photos of the damages. If possible, ask witnesses for contact details. All information you can gather may be useful in filing and getting a claim approved.
You Could Have Legal Options After a Rideshare Accident
Hopefully, if your rideshare driver is involved in an accident, you won’t be seriously hurt. However, you might find that you need medical attention or must take time off work to recover. Insurance companies can take their time settling claims, and when they do, they pay as little as possible in compensation.
If you feel your compensation is insufficient, you have every right to turn it down. Insurance companies will often offer less than they should, hoping that you will accept the settlement. You should review any offer with an attorney. They can advise if you should take the offer or fight for more.
If your Uber, Lyft, or taxi driver was involved in an accident, you might want to consider making a legal compensation claim. Professional representation can smooth out a complicated process. Our team can seek fair compensation for your expenses, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, etc.
How Your Rideshare or Taxi Accident Could Have Happened
Your accident could have occurred for many reasons, including:
- Reckless driving
- Drowsy driving
- Intoxicated driving
- Distracted driving
- Vehicle defects
- Improperly designed intersections
Your lawyer will investigate your accident to determine fault.
The Kinds of Losses That Could Entitle You to Compensatory Damages
Vehicle accidents can result in many different losses. These could include:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
If your accident resulted in the passing of a loved one, you could seek compensation to cover:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of guidance
- Your loved one’s accident-related medical bills in life
Talk to your lawyer about other kinds of damages you could include in your claim. They could tell you how soon you could settle your claim.
Our Team Will Put Your Needs First in Your Accident Case
Rideshare and taxi accident victims could contact George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers. Our company has experience in this field and keeps your best interests at heart.
Any vehicle accident is unsettling, but more than that, it can result in considerable inconvenience and expense. A personal injury lawyer can help you, so you don’t end up paying out of pocket for accident-related expenses. Getting legal representation can make your life a lot easier. Call (843) 779-1777 today.