Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how we get around our busy city. With just a few taps on your phone, you can skip the hassle of parking or dealing with public transit. But what happens when your convenient ride turns into a crash? If you suffer injuries as a passenger, figuring out who to hold responsible can feel overwhelming.
Both parties might share responsibility
You can pursue compensation from multiple parties if you get into a ridesharing accident. The driver generally holds primary responsibility since they were behind the wheel. As independent contractors, drivers must maintain their own insurance coverage for personal driving.
Personal policies usually kick in if they get into an accident while driving outside work hours. Meanwhile, special rideshare insurance policies help fill the gaps between individual and company policies.
Companies like Uber and Lyft also carry special insurance that kicks in during active rides. The companies’ coverage often provides higher limits than a personal auto policy. This matters if you face severe injuries and major medical bills.
What to do right after a ridesharing crash
Your actions immediately following the accident can strengthen your case. Aside from seeking medical care right away, it’s important to do the following, too:
- Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries and the accident scene
- Screenshot your ride details from the app
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Report the accident through the ridesharing app
- Save all your medical records and bills
Quick action helps you preserve crucial evidence that you can later use to build your case.
Getting the compensation you deserve
Ridesharing accident claims involve multiple insurance policies and complex liability issues. But don’t let these challenges stop you from seeking fair compensation for your injuries.
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can make the process less stressful. Your lawyer can help you determine which parties to hold responsible and fight to protect your rights every step of the way.