Transportation like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the industry, changing the way people get a ride.
Their popularity can be traced primarily to their convenience. The process is simple:
- User requests a ride via their smartphone app
- Driver comes directly to an agreed upon pick-up location
- User pays for the ride through the app and moves on with life
Not only are these services more convenient than a traditional taxi, they are also significantly cheaper in most locations.
“So what’s the catch? There’s always a catch.”
Services like Uber and Lyft are not regulated as stringently as traditional sources of for-hire transportation. This can leave injured passengers and motorists unsure of their rights and lacking the resources they need after an unfortunate accident.
How can you use these services safely? Here’s what you need to know before getting in the car:
Uber May Not Be On The Hook
Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors. This works well for Uber, limiting their liability when their drivers are involved in accidents, but not so well for other injured parties.
Sources Of Compensation Vary Depending On When The Accident Occurs
If an Uber driver is involved in an accident while transporting a passenger, they are covered by a million dollar liability policy in addition to another million dollar policy that protects in the event another motorist is uninsured or underinsured.
If an Uber driver is not currently available to pick up a passenger, they are covered by their own auto insurance policy.
If an Uber driver is available to pick up a passenger but doesn’t currently have a passenger, they are covered by a combination of their own coverage and additional liability coverage.
Needless to say, determining who to go after in the event of an accident can quickly become complicated. That is where our final piece of advice comes in.
Let An Attorney Handle It
You have one job after an accident: get better. Let an experienced personal injury attorney handle the legal and insurance issues so you can focus on putting your life back together.