We’ve all been there – you’re in a rush, you need to get somewhere, and you just don’t have the time or energy to deal with public transportation. That’s where rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft come in handy.
But, what happens when the unexpected occurs, and you find yourself in a rideshare accident?
Don’t fret! We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to handling rideshare accidents on Uber and Lyft platforms.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Policies
First things first, it’s important to understand the insurance policies that rideshare companies have in place for their drivers and passengers. Both Uber and Lyft offer insurance coverage for accidents that occur while a driver is on the clock, but the specifics can get a bit tricky.
Uber’s Insurance Policy
Uber provides coverage for their drivers and passengers in three different stages:
- Offline or App Off If the driver is not logged into the Uber app, their personal auto insurance policy is responsible for any accidents that occur.
- Available or Waiting for a Ride Request: When a driver is logged into the app but hasn’t accepted a ride request, Uber provides liability coverage of up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage. However, the driver’s personal auto insurance is still the primary coverage at this stage.
- En Route to Pick Up or During a Trip: Once a driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber’s insurance coverage increases. In this stage, Uber provides $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage.
Lyft’s Insurance Policy
Lyft’s insurance coverage is similar to Uber’s, with a few minor differences. Like Uber, Lyft provides coverage in three stages:
- Offline or App Off The driver’s personal auto insurance policy is responsible for any accidents that occur.
- Available or Waiting for a Ride Request: During this stage, Lyft provides liability coverage of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage. Again, the driver’s personal auto insurance is the primary coverage.
- En Route to Pick Up or During a Trip: Once a driver has accepted a ride request and is en route to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle, Lyft provides $1 million in liability coverage, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage.
So, You’ve Been in a Rideshare Accident – Now What?
Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s important to know what steps to take to ensure everyone’s safety and protect your rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself in a rideshare accident:
- Check for injuries: First and foremost, make sure everyone involved in the accident is ki okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
- Call the police: Even if there are no injuries, it’s still a good idea to call the police to file an accident report. This can be helpful when filing insurance claims later on.
- Gather information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to also get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to the vehicles and any injuries sustained. This can be helpful evidence when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action.
- Notify the rideshare company: Be no sure to report the accident to the rideshare platform (Uber or Lyft) as soon as possible. They’ll need this information to process any insurance claims.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s always a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Consult a rideshare accident attorney: If you’ve been injured or have suffered property damage in a rideshare accident, it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complex insurance and legal processes involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for my medical bills after a rideshare accident?
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, the rideshare company’s insurance policy, the other driver’s insurance policy, or your own personal insurance policy may be responsible for covering your medical bills. It’s important to consult with a rideshare accident attorney to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft if I’m injured in a rideshare accident?
In some cases, you may be able to pursue legal action against the rideshare company if their driver was at fault for the accident. However, this can be a complex process, and it’s important to consult with an experienced rideshare accident attorney to discuss your options.
What if the other driver involved in the accident is uninsured or underinsured?
Both Uber and Lyft provide uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for accidents that occur while a driver is en route to pick up a passenger or has a passenger in the vehicle. This coverage can help protect you in the event that the other driver involved in the accident does not have adequate insurance coverage.
In Conclusion: Stay Safe and Be Prepared
Rideshare accidents can be a stressful and confusing experience, but with the right knowledge and resources, you’ll be prepared to handle any situation that comes your way. Remember to always prioritize safety, document the accident scene, and consult with a rideshare accident attorney to ensure your rights are protected. And, of course, always buckle up and enjoy the ride!
