When you take an Uber or Lyft to travel from point A to point B, you’re probably more concerned about arriving at your destination on time than you are about getting hurt in an accident.
But just because you’re not behind the wheel doesn’t mean you’re immune from getting injured in a crash. Have you ever thought about what would happen if you were hurt during a ride, and who would be responsible for your medical bills?
Here’s what you need to know about rideshare accidents and who is liable for your injuries as a passenger.
Whose Insurance Policy Applies in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
If you’re a passenger who was hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you have the right to seek compensation from the responsible party. That could be the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, or another driver. Let’s look at the different types of insurance coverage that could be involved.
Rideshare Driver
Uber and Lyft require rideshare drivers to carry personal auto insurance that meets their minimum state coverage requirements. However, the rideshare driver’s coverage won’t kick in to pay for your injuries unless there is a special ridesharing provision or an additional commercial insurance policy.
Since it’s rare for rideshare drivers to have that kind of extra coverage, their insurance won’t likely take care of your medical bills. Their personal auto policy may even have a business use exception clause, which states injuries and damages that happen while they’re operating as a paid driver are not covered.
Rideshare Company
Both Uber and Lyft have third-party liability insurance coverage. This pays up to $1 million for property damage and personal injuries per accident.
The rideshare company’s policy will go into effect after the rideshare driver’s insurance has been used. But as we mentioned above, the rideshare driver’s policy is not likely to cover anything at all.
The details of Uber’s insurance coverage during trips is as follows:
- $1,000,000 third-party liability
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury (UM/UIM)
- Contingent comprehensive and collision up to the actual cash value of the car ($1,000 deductible)
Lyft’s insurance coverage during rides is similar:
- $1,000,000 for third-party auto liability
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury (UM/UIM) and/or first-party coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision up to the actual cash value of the car ($2,500 deductible)
If it’s determined your rideshare driver was at fault in the accident, your injuries should be covered by the rideshare company’s insurance.
Another Driver
If another driver was involved in your rideshare accident, and they were found to be at fault for the crash, you would seek compensation through their insurance provider or file a personal injury lawsuit. If the at-fault driver is unknown, uninsured, or underinsured, the rideshare company’s UM/UIM coverage should apply.
What Should I Do if I’m Hurt in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
If you are injured in a rideshare accident, take the following steps:
- Evaluate your injuries and request an ambulance if necessary.
- Take pictures of the scene (if you are able) before the vehicles are moved.
- Call the police so officers can gather information and write a report.
- Follow up with your primary doctor regarding your injuries.
To make sure you receive proper compensation, you should get in touch with a rideshare accident attorney who has experience with personal injury cases. They can determine who is liable and navigate the claims process on your behalf. You will then be free to concentrate on your recovery instead of dealing with insurance companies and defending your rights.
Under Florida law, you may be able to seek reimbursement for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering related to your rideshare accident. If there is evidence of criminal recklessness—such as drunk driving—you may also be entitled to punitive damages.
Whether your injuries are minor or life-threatening, an attorney can help you get the most possible compensation for your rideshare injury accident claim.
Who Is Liable for Injuries in an Uber or Lyft Accident?
Now you are more aware of who is responsible for your injuries as a passenger in a rideshare accident.
You would most likely seek compensation from Uber’s or Lyft’s insurance provider since your rideshare driver probably won’t have adequate coverage. However, if another driver is at fault, your claim would be against their insurance provider—unless they are unknown, uninsured, or underinsured.
So you can focus on healing and avoid negotiating with insurance adjusters, let a Florida car accident lawyer sort out all of these details for you. Contact Bulluck Law Group today!