Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular way to get around, but with their rise in use comes an increase in accidents involving rideshare vehicles. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. The legal process for filing a claim in these cases can be more complex than a typical car accident. At Dermer Law, we are here to guide you through the process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different?
Rideshare accidents are unique because they often involve multiple parties, including the rideshare driver, the passenger, other drivers, and insurance companies. Rideshare drivers are typically classified as independent contractors, not employees, which can complicate the claims process.
Key Differences in Rideshare Accident Claims
- Insurance Coverage: Unlike regular car accidents, rideshare companies provide their drivers with insurance coverage, but the coverage can vary depending on the circumstances. Whether the driver is logged into the app, on their way to pick up a passenger, or transporting a passenger can all affect the insurance coverage available.
- Multiple Insurance Policies: In a rideshare accident, there may be multiple insurance policies at play, including the driver’s personal insurance, the rideshare company’s insurance, and potentially the other driver’s insurance.
- Driver Status: The insurance coverage available to you may depend on whether the driver was actively engaged in a rideshare trip, driving to pick up a passenger, or not logged into the app at all.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, there are important steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, injuries from car accidents can sometimes appear later. Get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
- Gather Information: Collect as much information as you can at the scene of the accident, including:
- Names and contact details of all parties involved, including witnesses.
- Insurance information for the driver and any other vehicles involved.
- Photos of the accident scene, damages, and any visible injuries.
- Report the Accident: File a police report to ensure there is an official record of the accident. The police report can also serve as evidence in your claim.
- Contact the Rideshare Company: Notify the rideshare company about the accident. Uber and Lyft have their own procedures for handling accidents and insurance claims.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide different levels of insurance coverage, depending on the driver’s status during the accident:
1. Driver Not Logged Into the App
If the driver was not logged into the app and was not actively working, only the driver’s personal car insurance policy would apply. In this case, you would file a claim with the driver’s insurance, which may not provide enough coverage.
2. Driver Logged Into the App but Not Picking Up a Passenger
If the driver was logged into the app but not yet picking up a passenger, the rideshare company may provide contingent liability coverage. This coverage is usually lower than full rideshare insurance but can still help if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t cover the damages.
3. Driver Transporting a Passenger
If the driver was transporting a passenger at the time of the accident, Uber or Lyft’s commercial liability insurance would typically apply, covering both injuries and property damage. This coverage is usually substantial, though it may still be worth consulting with an attorney to ensure you are fairly compensated.
How Dermer Law Can Help with Your Rideshare Accident Claim
Navigating a rideshare accident claim can be challenging due to the complexities of multiple insurance policies and determining fault. At Dermer Law, we specialize in personal injury cases, including those involving rideshare accidents. We’ll help you:
- Investigate the Accident: We gather evidence, review insurance policies, and ensure that all parties are held accountable.
- Handle Insurance Negotiations: Dealing with multiple insurance companies can be overwhelming. We’ll manage the process and work to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Pursue Fair Compensation: We fight for your right to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Why Choose Dermer Law?
- Experienced Attorneys: Jay Dermer and Maxwell Shrem have years of experience handling complex personal injury cases, including rideshare accidents.
- Client-Focused Approach: At Dermer Law, we treat our clients as individuals and fight for their rights with compassion and dedication.
- Proven Results: We have a track record of success in securing fair settlements for our clients.
Don’t Face Rideshare Claims Alone
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and the insurance coverage that applies to your case. Don’t navigate the claims process alone—contact Dermer Law for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
