Many people use rideshare companies such as Lyft and Uber to travel around Greer conveniently and cost-effectively. While there are benefits to these services, there is also a downside.
Bloomberg and other media outlets highlight concerns about the safety of using rideshare services after an increase in fatal accidents involving Uber and Lyft. Studies from the Becker Friedman Institute showed an increase in accidents involving rideshare companies affecting passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver, you might have concerns about how to claim compensation to cover the costs of medical bills and lost wages.
While Uber and Lyft have insurance policies to cover their drivers, conditions apply, making the legal process more challenging. After an accident involving a rideshare driver, it may be beneficial to seek advice from a Greer Uber and Lyft rideshare accident attorney. They may be able to help determine whether you have grounds to file a claim and who the liable party or parties are.
George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers may be able to help you if you were injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver. We can help you find out more about your legal options.
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Give Us A Call »Studies Reveal an Uptick in Passengers Hurt in Uber and Lyft Accidents
Rideshare companies do not require their drivers to take extra driving qualifications or training. Having a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record and background check, and proof of insurance is about all you need to become a rideshare driver.
As with any driver, contractors who drive for rideshare companies are susceptible to negative behavior behind the wheel, such as:
- Driving while fatigued
- Distracted driving, such as looking at phone screens, given the service is app-based
- Speeding, especially when passenger demand is high and fare prices increase
- Aggressive driving
- Reckless lane changes
- Inexperienced drivers who may lack the skill to avoid accidents
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Operating vehicles with inadequate maintenance
Lyft and Uber have a legal responsibility to provide safety for their passengers and their drivers. When rideshare companies fail in their duty to reduce the risk of harm for service users, and their passengers are injured as a result, compensation may be available if negligence caused the accident.
The party responsible for your injuries may not always be obvious, especially when dealing with large companies such as Uber and Lyft, which carry up to $1 million in coverage on their policies but will only pay out under specific circumstances.
Another potential sticking point is the driver’s personal insurance policy. As they operate their car to earn money, they should take out extra ridesharing endorsements as part of their coverage. However, one driver’s research revealed that 60 to 80% of rideshare contractors lack the correct insurance, according to the Insurance Journal, meaning their insurance will not be valid while driving for hire.
What may seem a straightforward compensation claim can quickly become a complicated legal battle, and this may be one of the benefits of working with an Uber and Lyft rideshare accident lawyer in Greer. They can help you navigate the challenging process.
Greer Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accidents Lawyer Near Me(888) 612-7001
Claiming Compensation From Rideshare Companies and Drivers
Many variables come into play that can affect your compensation claim, such as the cause of the accident, the nature of your injuries, the driver’s insurance coverage, and the status of the driver at the time of the accident.
A “phase” is a term used to describe the insurance coverage the driver has based on his or her activity, as detailed below.
Phase 0
The driver is off duty and logged out of the app. Their own personal insurance policy applies.
Phase 1
The app is on; the driver is waiting for a ride request. Personal auto insurance does not apply; the rideshare company’s insurance offers limited liability coverage.
Phase 2
The driver is en route to pick up a passenger. Uber and Lyft insurance policies offer some coverage, but conditions apply.
Phase 3
The driver is transporting passengers. Uber and Lyft’s full insurance coverage applies.
It can be challenging to understand the coverage you have access to after an Uber or Lyft accident. Dealing with insurance companies may be the last thing you want to do while you are recovering from your injuries.
The attorneys at George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers have helped our clients successfully resolve over 40,000 cases. We want to help you, too and may be able to help you pursue compensation to include the value of:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost pay
- Property damage
- Reduced future earning capacity from your injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Other out-of-pocket expenses relating to the accident
- Wrongful death, if you lost a loved one in the accident
We understand how tough it can be to have your life suddenly interrupted by an accident caused through the negligence of another, and believe you should not have to take on the extra stress of dealing with an insurance adjuster while managing your recovery.
Let us put our experience and knowledge of dealing with insurance companies, developed through four decades of legal service, to work for you. Call for a free case review with one of our Greer Uber and Lyft accident lawyers today.
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(888) 612-7001When to Consider Help From a Greer Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Lawyer
After an accident, it is essential to have any injuries checked and documented by a medical professional. Your health is a priority here. Once you are able, it may be beneficial to contact an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer in Greer to ensure your rights are protected.
Being proactive in seeking legal advice gives your lawyer time to potentially build a robust case by:
- Providing a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident
- Requesting and collecting vital evidence to support your case
- Requesting background checks on the Uber or Lyft driver
- Checking vehicle condition and maintenance history
- Identifying responsible parties
- Proving negligence
- Estimating the value of your claim
- Negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurance company
- Reviewing settlement offers
- Representing you in court where necessary
George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers work hard to recover the compensation you deserve. Call or fill out our online form for a free case evaluation today, and we can review your legal options.
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