Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have generated the companies billions of dollars in profits. Uber alone provides around 15 million trips globally per day.
With such massive appeal as a form of transit, many people are concerned about what happens if a rideshare driver gets in a wreck while transporting passengers. Is the driver responsible? The rideshare company? With reports suggesting attempts to mask accident numbers to dodge liability, drivers and riders alike may be especially concerned about what will happen in the event of a wreck.
STATE INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Connecticut state laws require rideshare drivers to carry their own valid insurance. Uber and Lyft are also required to insure their drivers. Company coverage for accidents while on the job varies, but it’s questionable whether it provides adequate compensation for the passenger, who may have been injured or traumatized in the accident.
If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you can potentially file a personal injury claim to recover damages that insurance might shortchange you on.
WHEN CAN I CLAIM PERSONAL INJURY?
The following circumstances are examples of when you might decide to bring forward a personal injury claim:
- Negligence – including cases where your driver was texting or otherwise distracted while driving, not heeding posted speed limits, and disobeying stop signs or traffic lights.
- Reckless driving – this may include driving erratically or aggressively, such as abruptly changing lanes or cutting off other cars, or Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have generated the companies billions of dollars in profits. Uber alone provides around 15 million trips globally per day.driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Improper vehicle maintenance – Uber and Lyft have strict requirements for the vehicles their drivers use. The vehicle must be a four-door model in good condition, 12 years old or younger, with proper routine maintenance completed. They must also visibly display the Uber or Lyft emblem in the window. You may be able to use violations of these rules in your case if you believe malfunctions with the car are at fault for an accident.
It’s important to document everything that follows a rideshare accident if you’re involved in one as a passenger or as another motorist. Do what you would in any other type of accident, including exchanging insurance information, taking photos, seeking medical treatment, and holding off on making any statements about the incident at the scene.
Speak to a lawyer about your accident to help prevent insurance from blocking you from receiving appropriate compensation.