Yes. Uber and Lyft drivers have personal insurance policies to cater for damages caused by accidents involving them. While the companies also have a $1 million auto insurance policy, it only applies to certain cases. For example, the driver liable must have been available for rides at the time of the crash. You may qualify for compensation if you were a passenger in their vehicle.
Read on for more information regarding Uber and Lyft drivers’ insurance and guidance on the process of claiming compensation.
Does the Law Require Lyft and Uber Drivers to Carry Insurance?
Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, which means that their employer is not always liable for accidents caused by them. For example, if a driver hits another motorist outside their working hours, the company cannot pay for the damages.
Due to this aspect, Texas law requires drivers working for ridesharing companies to carry personal insurance.
This insurance can compensate passengers injured due to the driver’s negligence. It also pays for physical injury and vehicle damages when the $1 million policy does not apply.
How Much Compensation Will I Get If an Uber or Lyft Driver Hits Me?
There is no specific settlement you receive after suffering damages in a Lyft or Uber car accident. The compensation value often differs depending on various factors. First, if the driver was working at the time of the crash, the companies may compensate you using their $1 million policy. If not, you need to pursue compensation equal to your damages from the driver’s personal cover.
Since a Texas car crash may lead to severe physical injuries and vehicle damages, an Uber or Lyft driver’s insurance policy may not be enough to reimburse you. In such a case, Uber and Lyft may be able to cover the excess damages. You also may be able to file a lawsuit against the driver.
When filing a claim against an Uber or Lyft driver, it is always critical to assess your damages first. This measure will help you ensure that you seek a fair amount. It also prevents paying for some costs out of pocket.
When Is an Uber or Lyft Driver Liable for an Accident?
You can hold Uber or Lyft drivers responsible for accidents if there is enough evidence to prove liability. If you are unsure what led to the crash, you should always investigate the matter. During this process, use evidence gathered at the scene to check if the driver was negligent.
For example, you can use videos captured by traffic cameras to confirm whether the driver observed various road safety regulations. Such include:
- Using the correct lane
- Indicating before turning
- Yielding the right of way to other motorists
- Obeying traffic lights
Another aspect that may show an Uber or Lyft driver was liable for an accident is driving under the influence of drugs. Since it may be challenging to determine such an issue, you can rely on police reports to support your case. It is also possible to request medical reports that contain drug tests results.
What to Do When Involved in a Rideshare Accident
If you were in a Lyft or Uber accident, it is best to contact the police and request medical care. Once the emergency responders arrive, get treatment for all injuries, and ensure you gather various forms of evidence. First, get a copy of your medical records from your doctor and request receipts for all expenses.
Besides that, take pictures of injuries before and after receiving treatment. Collecting such details will help you prove liability and seek compensation from the driver’s insurance company. You can also use the documents to support your case if you file a lawsuit. Other evidence you should gather after a ridesharing accident are:
- Registration number of cars involved
- Insurance information
- Details of any witnesses
- Pictures of the vehicles and the scene of the accident
- Address of the Uber or Lyft driver
After a ridesharing accident, another precaution you should take is calling your insurance company. This step is vital, especially if your car was involved in the crash. Once you notify your insurer, provide details of the driver and all the vehicles involved.
Call Loncar Lyon Jenkins When Involved in an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you suffered injuries caused by a ridesharing company car, you have legal options. There are different avenues for seeking compensation to pay for your damages. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, we have helped thousands of Dallas car accident victims get justice for such crashes.
Our lawyers can guide you in determining whether to pursue a settlement from a driver or their ridesharing company. Based on the findings, they may then prove liability and negotiate with insurers for rightful compensation. If you were in an accident with a Lyft or Uber driver, reach out to Loncar Lyon Jenkins for a case assessment.
