Rideshare services began as interesting experiments in public transportation that slowly grew into a multimillion-dollar industry. Now, hopping into a stranger’s vehicle isn’t seen as an odd concept within society. The normalization of rideshare transportation is astonishing, but like most amazing ideas, there’s always a downside.
While using rideshare services, you’re at the mercy of whatever available driver you have at the time. The amount of potential danger you may experience depends on the driving skills and attention to the surroundings of your rideshare driver. However, what happens if you’re the victim of a rideshare accident that wasn’t your fault. Who is to blame for your injuries?
Who Pays for Your Damages in a Rideshare Accident?
The world of rideshare insurance policies is complicated. Unlike regular car accident claims, in which fault for your accident falls entirely on the other driver and their insurance company, rideshare accidents feature a third party, as well. The insurance company representing the rideshare service will also involve be involved.
But, whose insurance applies to your injuries? The answer to this question is relatively complicated. When your driver has a commercial insurance policy or personal car insurance policy with a special provision providing insurance coverage, you’ll have coverage from their insurance company.
However, it’s highly unlikely that most rideshare drivers will have these special situations during your car accident. Luckily, most major rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft feature $1 million injury policies for accidents that occur during rides. This policy starts the second you enter the rideshare vehicle and ends as soon as you exit the vehicle.
Is it Difficult to Sue Rideshare Companies?
Like many other major industry leaders, rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft have made it increasingly more difficult to sue them directly. Most rideshare companies consider their workers as independent contract workers instead of traditional employees.
When attempting to sue for your accident, these rideshare companies will deflect blame onto the driver—who is also required to carry auto insurance just like any other driver—to avoid responsibility for your damages. It’s an uphill battle when you’re going up against a rideshare company, but it’s not impossible to win your case, especially with the help of an experienced car accident lawyer.
Reach Out to an LA Rideshare Attorney
Do you rely on rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft to get around Los Angeles? Have you spent countless dollars on various drivers? If your answer is yes and you’ve been the victim of a careless driver, you deserve better. We will not let rideshare services get away with not only giving you a poor service but also causing you suffering.
You have options, and no matter the policies of these companies, and Custodio & Dubey LLP will fight for your right to compensation. No matter what the company may tell you, it’s not invincible from legal consequences because of obtuse policies. To contact one of our rideshare attorneys, call (888) 280-8029 or fill out the form below to learn more.
