Using Uber and Lyft to get around has become commonplace in this day and age. In fact, there are times that it seems like there are almost as many Uber and Lyft vehicles on the road as there are private cars and trucks. Unfortunately, as Uber and Lyft’s fleets grow larger, the chances that many of us will be involved in a traffic accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle increases as well.
Unlike accidents involving regular vehicles, collisions involving a Lyft or Uber vehicle can be far more complicated. The complications stem from the fact that there are so many different parties involved in the wreck. Each Uber or Lyft crash can involve Uber or Lyft passengers, the Uber or Lyft driver, and the drivers and passengers from any other vehicles involved in the wreck. In addition, in some instances, Uber or Lyft may become involved in the accident as well.
What If I’m a Passenger in an Uber or Lyft When It’s in an Accident?
If you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle that is involved in a traffic accident in Connecticut, you may have options for pursuing an injury claim. Neither Uber nor Lyft drivers are classified as employees. Instead, they are considered contractors, which means that Uber and Lyft can often avoid being held responsible for damages if one of their drivers harms someone else.
This means that if a passenger is injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, it is sometimes the driver’s personal car insurance that will be held responsible for any damages/injuries the passenger suffered. However, both rideshare companies are required to carry liability coverage for their drivers. This means that in certain situations the company provided insurance would be responsible for damages if an Uber or Lyft vehicle was involved in a wreck.
An example of this would be if a rideshare driver was logged into their app and had accepted a ride. If that were the case and the driver was involved in a crash, then Uber or Lyft’s insurance would cover up to $100,000 for an accident, $50,000 in bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. However, if the driver did not have their app on and hadn’t accepted a ride, then the driver’s personal insurance would be responsible for the damages.
What Should Passengers Do Immediately Following an Uber or Lyft Accident?
If you’re a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle that’s involved in an accident, first, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Next, give your statement to the police when they ask you to provide a statement. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicles involved. Also, try to get the names, contact information, and insurance information of the drivers. Finally, contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Uber & Lyft Accident Lawyer Today!
Being involved in a traffic accident is never easy no matter the circumstances. However, it can be especially difficult if the wreck involves an Uber or Lyft vehicle. At Action Law Group, LLC, our car accident attorneys have over 50 years of collective legal experience. We have a history of helping injury victims hold those responsible for their pain and suffering accountable.
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in Uber and Lyft accidents, so we know what it takes to secure the compensation injury victims need in the aftermath of the incident. Plus, you don’t owe us any fees unless we win!
To schedule an initial consultation with our experienced Uber & Lyft accident attorneys, call us at (203) 439-3143 or reach out to us online. We are available 24/7. Se habla Español.