Uber & Lyft Accidents: Who Is Responsible?

Ridesharing is becoming increasingly popular, providing a convenient option for individuals to go to and from their destinations at any given time. Unlike taxi’s, Uber and Lyft allow anyone with a smartphone to summon a ride in a matter of minutes. Given the popularity of ridesharing, it would be helpful to understand who can be held liable in the event of an accident. Is it the driver, the ridesharing company, or another party? If you use these types of services, read on to find out who you might be able to hold responsible if you are ever involved in an Uber or Lyft accident.

Who is Liable?

Liability in ridesharing accidents are not always straightforward. In fact, because of the way these types of companies are structured, drivers are not considered employees of the company, but rather as independent contractors. Taxi drivers, on the other hand, are typically employees of taxi companies, so the taxi service would be held liable for injuries sustained in an accident.

That said, a ridesharing company’s insurance will be the primary coverage for an accident under a couple of different circumstances. First, if a driver is waiting to pick up passengers, but does not have any riders yet, the driver might be able to request additional coverage from the company’s insurance after reaching the limit on his or her personal coverage. Second, if he or she is carrying a rider, the ridesharing company’s policy will be the primary coverage after accepting a ride request, which will continue until the ride is over. Third parties, such as bicyclists or pedestrians, will also be covered under the company’s insurance policy.

If your claim is denied by the ridesharing company’s insurer, you can still bring a lawsuit against the ridesharing company directly, or attempt to seek compensation from the driver’s personal insurance company.

Car Accident Attorney in Montgomery County

If you were injured in an accident involving a ridesharing driver, it is imperative that you seek skilled legal representation as soon as possible to fight on your behalf for the compensation you deserve. At Morris Wilson, P.C., our personal injury attorneys have decades of collective experience that we will put to work for you. There is no need to go through this on your own.

Contact our office today at (610) 825-0500 to schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable member of our legal team.