Whenever you rely on a rideshare company like Uber or Lyft, you never expect to encounter a severe situation in which you suffer an injury. Unfortunately, these types of accidents can happen. As a potential passenger, another driver, a bicyclist, or a pedestrian, you need to recognize what rights you have to pursue compensation.
Note: Rideshare accidents are down with COVID-19 impacting how many people work or do business, but you have time to file a claim. Speak with a lawyer to better understand your rights. Call us today at 703-721-4233.
It can feel confusing not knowing what can be done after a rideshare accident, but there are specific circumstances you need to know if you’re injured in this type of collision. Typically, your options are dependent on various circumstances, and speaking with an attorney can help you recognize the factors that impact your claim.
With a lawyer from our firm on your side, you can feel peace of mind throughout the process. We explain every step to you, discuss your rights and options, and protect you from insurance companies. We’ll champion your rights to pursue the compensation you deserve.
The Scenario: The Driver’s App is Off
If you’re another driver and the rideshare driver has his or her app off, they are considered off-duty. They’re not currently working for the rideshare company at the time of the crash. In this situation, your claim would be processed through Virginia’s traditional fault-based system against the at-fault driver and his/her insurance company. If the rideshare driver his negligent while off-duty, you generally cannot rely on the rideshare company’s insurance policies to cover the costs.
Just like in any crash, though, you want to ensure you’re gathering all contact information for the driver and his or her insurance company. Call us if you’re unsure of what your rights are in this situation.
The Scenario: The Driver’s App is On, but Waiting on a Ride Request
When the rideshare companies first started, they didn’t cover their drivers while they were waiting for a ride request, even if their app was on and they were considered on-duty. Now though, the companies provide limited coverage for the drivers should they cause a crash in this situation. Typically, they carry limited coverage of 25/50/25 (in thousands for bodily injury and property damage). These numbers reflect the following:
- $25,000 coverage for each person in an accident for bodily injury
- $50,000 coverage for the total accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 coverage for the total accident for property damage
There are some insurance companies that exclude coverage should the driver use his or her own personal vehicle for business purposes. In this case, the driver may need to rely on the rideshare company as a means to coverage the cost of compensating you.
The Scenario: The Driver’s App is On, and Picking Up or Driving a Passenger
This scenario describes when a rideshare driver is fully on-duty with the rideshare company. His or her app is on and the rider is either waiting for pick up or in the vehicle, which makes the rideshare company liable for compensation that the driver causes because of a negligence-related accident.
Rideshare companies have their own insurance policies that they use to help in these situations, typically up to a $1 million limit. However, it’s necessary to take the proper steps after the crash to get the compensation you need for the injuries you sustain.
What to Do After the Accident
The rideshare driver is required to report the accident via the rideshare app. However, this requirement may not always be followed. When the rideshare driver fails to report the accident, it can cost you the ability to pursue compensation.
Even if you feel as though the driver has reported the accident, you should still take the steps to report the accident yourself. Get all information necessary from the driver that can help you report the situation to your insurance company and to the rideshare company. Knowing who covers the policy for the rideshare driver can help you move forward effectively.
Don’t wait to take photos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle and the rideshare vehicle, and all visible injuries. These steps help preserve vital evidence for your case. Speaking with a lawyer should also be near the top of your priority list, and we’re here to help you get the answers you need!
Pursuing Compensation with a Skilled Attorney
If you find yourself injured in an accident with a rideshare driver, you need to recognize your ability to pursue compensation. Working with a lawyer can help position you in the most favorable manner so you can cover some of the expenses associated with the injuries you may sustain.
At Shevlin Smith, we use our experience to provide you with the care, respect, and advocacy you deserve. Since 1986, we have gone above and beyond to hold negligent persons accountable and pursue compensation when our clients need it most, and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Our Fairfax rideshare accident attorneys are committed to your rights throughout the entire process. We know how difficult this time can be for you as you deal with physical, mental, and financial struggles. We’ll put your best interests first to help you take the next step in pursuing justice and compensation. Let us be your guide throughout the entire process.
Call our firm today at 703-721-4233 and schedule your free consultation. We’ll help you get the answers you need before we take the necessary steps to start your claim.