The future is now. Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are now common methods of transportation. When you use rideshare services, you are trusting unknown licensed drivers to transport you to your destination…safely. However, if your rideshare vehicle gets into a car accident and you are injured, are you covered by Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy?
The answer is: it depends.
It depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Another factor is which party is actually at fault or even partly at fault for the accident? Also, which vehicle you were driving in at the time; the rideshare or the other vehicle involved in the accident?
Scenario 1: You are a passenger in the rideshare and the other vehicle is at fault. When a third party is at fault for the accident, you would typically make a claim against that party’s automobile insurance. If that party is uninsured, then there should be uninsured motorist coverage that will cover the injured person by the rideshare company.
Scenario 2: You are a passenger in the rideshare and the rideshare is at fault. When the rideshare driver is at fault, then Uber or Lyft is responsible for the injuries or damages sustained by the passenger(s). The rideshare driver must be in compliance with Uber or Lyft’s specifications as well. Rideshare drivers are required to carry their own personal insurance separate from their rideshare company. Typically the rideshare company carries a one million dollar policy under their third-party liability insurance coverage.
Scenario 3: The rideshare is at fault and you were traveling in another vehicle: If you were in a vehicle involved in an accident with a rideshare vehicle and were injured, then a third party claim could be made against the rideshare vehicle. These are the most common scenarios but not the only scenarios.
Uber and Lyft are the most well known rideshares but not the only rideshares. Other services could include Via, Gett, Curb, Ztrip, Summon and Bridj.
It can get confusing to figure this out on your own. If you or a loved one were involved in a car accident involving an Uber, Lyft or any rideshare vehicle, the attorneys at Sherris Legal can assess your case and determine how to proceed to successfully resolve your claim.
Contact our office today at 407.999.9955
