Ridesharing has greatly benefited the average American. It has helped reduce drunk driving, distracted driving, and created thousands of new jobs – but what happens if you are a passenger in a rideshare and your driver gets into an accident? No one wants to get in a car accident, and most people are prepared by purchasing automobile insurance and being alert while driving. However, we often take our safety for granted when riding in an Uber or Lyft and forget about the potential risk of an accident. This is a risk that we might forget about, but which doesn’t just disappear just because we pay someone to do the driving for us.
A big issue with Uber and Lyft is that their employees are hired as independent contractors, which makes it much easier for the ridesharing companies to avoid paying for damages, medical bills, or time away from work. This is further complicated by the fact that laws regarding ridesharing vary depending on in which state in which the accident occurred.
The good news is, in the unfortunate situation that you are in an accident, you DO have recourse. Both Uber and Lyft typically have a one-million-dollar liability insurance which will cover the medical bills of passengers who sustain injuries while ridesharing if the Uber or Lyft driver is at fault. Additionally, if the other driver is at fault but has no insurance, Uber and Lyft also carry a one-million-dollar uninsured/underinsured policy which acts as a back-up. However – and this is important – the ridesharing companies’ insurers have a team of well paid professionals working around the clock for the specific purpose of denying or mitigating as many claims as possible.
When one is involved in a car accident it is important to first seek medical attention if needed, always call the police, and document as much as evidence possible. Those are key. Additionally, if you happen to be a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, it is also crucial to secure representation from a licensed accident and injury attorney experienced in dealing with ridesharing companies. As wonderful as these ridesharing companies are, they, like most major corporations, will still do everything in their power to avoid paying a claim. You need an experienced advocate on your side, dedicated to ensuring that you won’t be left to fend for yourself at a time when it may just be too overwhelming or physically impossible to handle yourself. Protect yourself and consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
After you have been in an accident, call Steinberg Law immediately and we will schedule a free one-hour consultation. We have handled such claims on countless occasions all over South Florida and can fight to recover the financial damages you need to begin putting your life back together if you were seriously injured.
We will also provide you with tips on handling insurance companies and present you with all the viable legal options available to you. We understand the dynamics of car accidents and we make sure our clients’ claims for injuries result in the highest level of compensation possible.
When you need financial compensation after a serious recent car accident in South Florida call 561 630-0053 to begin your claim!
