Many people rely on rideshare services like Uber and Lyft as a fast, cheap, and in most cases, safe method of transportation. However, this convenience comes at a price. According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Chicago and Rice University, the arrival of ridesharing is associated with a 3% increase in the number of motor vehicle fatalities and fatal accidents in U.S. cities.
With Uber and Lyft adding more cars to the road, the likelihood of an accident with a rideshare vehicle is more probable than ever. Learn who would be liable in an accident involving an Uber and what you can do to protect yourself.
Liability When You’re Hit by an Uber Driver
Determining liability in an accident with an Uber driver is similar to proving liability with any other type of motor vehicle accident -- you’ll need to prove fault. To do this, you’ll have to prove the other driver’s negligence -- in this case that of the Uber driver -- caused the accident and any injuries or damages sustained during the accident.
If you’re the non-negligent driver in the car accident, and you’re able to prove that the Uber driver’s negligence caused the accident, either the Uber driver’s personal insurance policy or Uber’s own insurance policy for their drivers will kick in to cover costs related to injuries and damages.
The amount that Uber’s insurance policy will cover depends on the accident’s unique situation.
If the Uber driver hit you when the Uber app was off, the Uber driver’s personal insurance policy and coverages will apply.
If the Uber driver hits you when the Uber app is on and they’re waiting for a ride request, Uber’s third-party liability will cover the accident if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t apply. In this situation, Uber will cover $50,000 in bodily injury per person, $100,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
If the Uber driver hits you when the driver is en route to pick up passengers or during trips, Uber will cover $1,000,000 third-party liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury, and contingent comprehensive and collision.
Involved in an Accident with Uber or Lyft? We’re Here to Help
Car accidents involving rideshare vehicles are foggy situations, and it’s best to hire a qualified personal injury attorney to help you navigate through this unique legal process. Finding out how much compensation you can obtain can be tricky, and we’re here to help you sort it all out.
If you were involved in a rideshare accident, contact Loscalzo & Loscalzo, P.C. at (646) 846-4776 to discuss your accident with one of our personal injury attorneys today.