Rideshare services have become increasingly popular, and for many of us, they are a transportation staple. That being said, it can be nerve-wracking to get into the car and trust a stranger to drive us for a number of reasons. Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft drivers are not impervious to accidents. If an accident does occur, there are some important steps to take. Read on to learn more about Uber & Lyft accidents in California.
How Do Uber/Lyft Accidents Occur?
Just because someone drives for a rideshare company, does not mean they will be responsible. Unfortunately, Uber/Lyft drivers may act negligently and cause accidents. The most common examples of negligence include:
- Texting while driving
- Using other electronic devices while driving
- Disregarding traffic signs/signals
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Excessive speeding/reckless driving
- Driving distracted
- Driving drowsy
What Do I Do After An Accident Occurs?
If you are involved in an Uber/Lyft accident, there are some important
- Save any communications between yourself and the driver that took place on the app
- Save any responses or communication from the ridesharing company
- Photograph as much as you can at the scene of the accident, including the license plate of the car you were riding in
- Do not speak to the driver, their insurance company, or any representatives from Uber/Lyft
- Consult with a skilled personal injury attorney to ensure your case is filed before the two-year statute of limitations
Who is Responsible for my Accident?
If you are injured due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. But, it is not always clear who will be held responsible for the accident. Depending upon the circumstances of the accident, Uber and Lyft may provide coverage. Uber and Lyft’s liability coverage system is as follows:
- Period 0: When the driver is not logged into the rideshare app. If an accident occurs at this time, Uber/Lyft will not provide liability coverage.
- Period 1: When the driver is logged in but has not yet accepted a ride. If he or she causes an accident, Uber/Lyft will provide liability coverage of up to $50,000 per person injured in the accident, $100,000 total injury liability per accident, and $25,000 in property damage liability.
- Period 2: When a driver has accepted a trip and is en route to the rider and causes an accident, the liability coverage will increase to $1 million.
- Period 3: When an accident occurs when the rider is in the Uber/Lyft vehicle at the time of the accident. In this scenario, Uber/Lyft provides coverage of up to $1 million, as well as limited coverage for damage to the driver’s car and uninsured motorists’ coverage.
If you have been injured in an Uber/Lyft accident, contact our firm today. We are here to advocate for you and walk you through your personal injury matters, each step of the way. Reach out to speak with a dedicated attorney.
CONTACT OUR FIRM
When someone is wrongly injured in an accident, they often require financial compensation to heal. That’s where we come in. Contact the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady today to learn more about what our firm can do for you.
