Accidents With Uber and Lyft Drivers
Car Accident Lawyer
Getting in an accident can be complicated enough when it is between you and another private driver. It can be even more confusing when your accident is with a taxi or a ridesharing driver. You may not understand how these company drivers differ from private individuals and if that affects your insurance claim. It is essential to understand how a company policy may affect you if the company driver was at fault for the accident. Here’s a breakdown of what’s covered by these companies.
ATX Co-Op Taxi
This organization of taxis covers all its drivers under a contract position, meaning that the company may not be liable for payments if an accident occurs. If the taxi driver was not driving on the job (going to pick someone up or driving a passenger), you will likely have to file a claim with their private insurance. If they were driving for work, then that is when you can see about filing a claim with the company.
Uber
Uber has a $1 million policy to cover its drivers, but it may not apply to your accident situation. To receive that coverage, an Uber driver must be on the app, on the way to pick up a passenger or driving a passenger. Otherwise, they are considered off the clock and their own insurance applies to your case.
Lyft
Lyft operates under a similar policy to Uber, where the $1 million policy only kicks in when their driver was actually working. If you are a passenger in a ridesharing vehicle, it is up to the insurance of the drivers to settle who should pay (by determining who is negligent). This can be a long and tedious process as the companies try to pin blame on the other company’s driver so they do not have to pay the compensation.
Evidence of Negligence
If you’re hit by a driver of one of these companies, you’ll need to collect evidence proving the other driver was negligent in order to obtain payment from their insurance. Evidence can include pictures of the accident, witness statements, police reports, and medical documentation. Write down your own notes of the accident for future reference.
Getting in a car accident can be a stressful time and create financial strain. An attorney, like a car accident lawyer, may be able to help clear confusing legal jargon involved with these large ridesharing companies. You should never be afraid to contact one to discuss your case.
