Getting Compensation After an Uber or Lyft Accident
With the increased popularity of rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft, more and more people are getting into rideshare accidents. Whether you are a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, you may wonder what rights you have and if you can sue the rideshare company for your injuries.
At Virginia Beach Injury Law, we provide experienced representation for individuals who have been seriously injured in rideshare accidents throughout Virginia. If you were hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you might be able to sue the company for damages. It is important to speak with an attorney immediately to determine your legal options. Contact our office at (757) 802-4662 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a Rideshare Accident?
If you are injured in a rideshare accident, you need to act fast to get the compensation you deserve.
If you are involved in a rideshare accident you need to:
- Contact 911. Most jurisdictions require that you contact 911 if anyone is hurt or injured in the accident. Even if you are not sure whether you are seriously injured, you should still call local law enforcement.
- Take a screenshot of your rideshare trip. If you are able, take a screenshot of your trip. You may need to prove that you were a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
- Collect evidence at the scene. It may be helpful to take pictures and videos at the scene of the accident. The more evidence you can provide of the accident you can provide, the better.
- Get medical treatment. Even if you are not taken to the emergency room, you should still be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.
- Contact a rideshare accident lawyer. A lawyer can help determine how to proceed with your case.
All injury victims should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately after the accident. Failure to be seen by a doctor could negatively impact your right to financial recovery.
Who Can I Sue If I Am Injured in a Rideshare Accident?
If you are injured in a rideshare accident, you may be able to sue one or more parties that were responsible for your injuries. If the rideshare driver caused the accident, you might be able to file a claim against their insurance, including the one provided by Uber or Lyft.
Depending on the circumstances of the case, you may also be able to pursue a claim for damages against another driver, passenger, or any party that contributed to the accident, such as an auto parts manufacturer.
Which Insurance Is Applicable in a Rideshare Accident?
Rideshare companies are required to carry a higher amount of liability insurance for their drivers. Both Uber and Lyft provide policies with $1 million limits. The $1 million policy is only applicable in certain situations.
Offline or Not Using the App
If the driver was not using the app and causes an accident, then the only applicable insurance policy would be their own. A rideshare company’s insurance policy would only apply if the driver that caused your accident was accepting passengers and using the app.
Online and Accepting Ride Requests
If the driver was using the app but had not accepted a ride request, then the rideshare company provides third-party liability insurance in the amount of $50,000 in bodily injury per person, $100,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage per accident.
En Route or During Trips
Uber and Lyft each carry third-party liability coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 for drivers that cause an accident while they are en route to pick up passengers or have passengers in their vehicle with them.
Injured in a Rideshare Accident? Get the Help You Need Now.
Were you injured in a rideshare accident in Virginia Beach? Contact our office at (757) 802-4662 to schedule a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to speak directly with an attorney about your case.
