Your Rights After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Uber and Lyft are popular ridesharing services, used by millions of Americans. However, these vehicles are just as likely to be in an accident as any other, and if you were in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft, you may be wondering what rights have to pursue compensation for your injuries. Accidents that occur involving an Uber or Lyft, can result in liability being placed on either the driver, the ridesharing company, or the car manufacturer if there was an automobile defect. The determination of liability for your accident can be a complex legal issue. 

Determination of Liability 

As in all car accidents, there must be a determination of fault and liability. Some ridesharing drivers are covered by a specialty car insurance specifically for them, and in other cases, insurance companies will refuse to cover any type of “commercial driving,” including Uber or Lyft drivers. 

Other than a manufacturing defect, two parties could be liable and at-fault for a car accident involving an Uber or Lyft.  

• Other Driver At-Fault.  The process is much clearer and simpler if the other driver was at-fault in an Uber or Lyft accident. In these cases, as an Uber or Lyft passenger, you will file a personal injury claim against the other driver’s insurance policy. You may be able to receive compensation for any medical bills, lost wages or in some cases pain and suffering. The process would work similarly to a car accident claim not involving an Uber or Lyft. 

• Uber or Lyft Driver At-Fault.  The process becomes more complex if the driver of the Uber or Lyft was the one determined to be at-fault. You may first attempt to file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance policy, which may or may not cover them as a ridesharing driver. If this avenue does not work, you may be able to file a claim directly with Uber’s insurance policy, as their policy does cover its drivers.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Today 

There are several legal challenges in determining liability and attempting to receive compensation for your injuries after an accident involving an Uber or Lyft as a passenger. Contacting an experienced personal injury and car accident lawyer as soon as possible can help you determine which party is liable, and how to proceed with your claim. Contact an experienced car accident attorney at the David Aylor Law Offices. We can help you understand your rights, and help you build a strong case. Contact us at (843) 212-2684 or online today.