Many people know what they’re supposed to do when they get into an accident with another vehicle. However, for some reason, it can seem like the rules change if you’re involved in a collision with a rideshare driver like Uber or Lyft.
You might have been riding in the Uber or Lyft with the driver when they were involved in an accident, or you were the driver or passenger of another car. Regardless of which scenario closely aligns with yours, you may be curious whether you can sue them for compensation. In most cases, you can, but how much you can claim may depend on how the accident happened.
The Rideshare Service Provider Was Off-the-Clock
You might think you have to go right to the top – Uber or Lyft – to sue a driver that hit you in another car. However, if they weren’t currently providing a service and were not actively looking for a passenger, their own car insurance policy is likely in effect rather than their company’s.
This means that their liability insurance will likely be covering property damage, and the settlement process plays out just like it would with any other driver on the road.
The Uber Driver Had a Passenger
When an Uber or Lyft driver is driving a passenger, they make use of Uber’s insurance coverage. This includes $1 million in property damage and liability coverage. However, the insurance figure available to you can depend on whether you’re the passenger or another driver. Your chosen personal injury attorney in Texas may be able to advise on the likely outcome of your claim.
The Driver is Between Fares
If the Lyft driver is on the clock but has no passengers, they may use a combination of their own insurance and their company’s insurance. Usually, the rideshare company provides contingency insurance for since they are clocked in and ready for work.
This may change what your likely settlement could be based on your costs, so contact a lawyer to talk through your options for making a claim.
You’re an Injured Passenger
It might seem like you can’t sue a driver when you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident if you’re their passenger. However, if you were injured in the crash, you can. Remember, Uber has a $1 million insurance policy, and as a passenger, you are unlikely to be at fault.
Typically, the claims process will be with Uber rather than the driver involved in the accident. A lawsuit isn’t often necessary since you can file an insurance claim with them as the victim.
You Weren’t the Passenger
Pedestrians hit by Ubers and drivers and passengers of other vehicles hit by Ubers can sue the driver and/or company. However, how you proceed with this process can depend on whether the Uber driver had a passenger, was available for a ride or was off the clock.
Uber/Lyft Settlement Process
Once you know that you can sue rideshare drivers, you may start to wonder how long the accident settlement process takes. This can depend on many factors, such as the driver’s role, the severity of your injuries, and how cooperative all parties are.
Once you make an appointment with a trusted Texas attorney, they can learn about your case and discuss the next steps. They may even be able to give you an idea of how the process plays out.
Want to Sue Your Rideshare Driver? Contact J. Alexander Law Today
If you have been injured in a rideshare accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s time to hold those responsible to account. Contact J. Alexander Law today for a free case review to determine the best next steps. We’re here to help!