Uber and Lyft Accidents

Los Angeles Uber and Lyft Accidents

Lyft and Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors. This means that the drivers of both companies can be held be held responsible for a motorist accident. However, determining who is responsible depends on circumstances related to the incident. If you are a victim of a Lyft or Uber driver related accident you may be eligible to file a claim against the ride-sharing company. Hiring a personal injury attorney to guide you through the process of filing a claim is important when determining fault for your compensation.

Filing a Claim Against Uber

Ubers requires its drivers to carry their own insurance policy. In California, ridesharing companies are also required by law to run annual background checks on employees or risk fines up to $1000. Another regulation of California law requires all drivers to acquire a certificate or permit from the Public Utilities Commission. Uber provides at least one million dollars in liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and personal injury protection.

Uber’s insurance policy covers motorists from the time the driver starts the ridesharing app until the time the ride has ended from dropping off passengers who have accepted a trip. The policy doesn’t cover the driver or other motorists on the road when a trip is not in the process.

If the driver is at fault Uber insurance covers:

  • Liability – which covers damage to other drivers, pedestrians, property, other cars, and any passengers inside the Uber vehicle.
  • Collision – this covers damages to your vehicle.
  • Medical – coverage for medical expenses for everyone inside the Uber driver’s car.

Uber’s insurance coverage for drivers not at fault:

  • Liability – is only used when the driver is at fault
  • Collision – used temporarily until the driver’s insurance company receives payment from the other insurance company involved in the crash
  • Uninsured/Underinsured – pays for damages caused by motorists who do not carry insurance or are underinsured
  • Medical – pays for Uber and Lyft drivers and passengers.

Determining who is responsible for covering damages can be confusing and may require assistance from a personal injury attorney who specializes in Uber and Lyft car accident claims.

What You Need to Know About Lyft Accident Claims

Lyft carries the same type of auto insurance policy as Uber. The driver’s personal insurance policy covers the driver when driver mode is off on the drivers app. Lyft is unlikely to pay for damages caused by negligent drivers. In this case the at-fault driver’s insurance will pay for damages.

California passed new rules and regulations on California’s Vehicle Code, which mandates that the primary insurance policy covers all damages regardless of fault for ridesharing companies.

How Insurance Works With Rideshare in California

Uber and Lyft coverage begins when:

  • The app is active for rideshare
  • Passengers have been accepted a ride through the app
  • The time the passenger enters the vehicle to the time they exit the vehicle

The Uber or Lyft driver must also carry their own personal insurance coverage at all times.

When an Uber or Lyft Driver is Hit While In Between Rideshare Time

The Uber/ Lyft driver’s personal insurance policy covers the driver when the rideshare app is off. Uber and Lyft coverage only apply when the contracted employee has the app running.

Legal Representation for Accidents Related to Uber or Lyft Incidents

Trying to figure out who is at fault in an Uber or Lyft car accident claim can be very complicated.

Personal injury attorneys may specialize in Uber/Lyft car accident claims. An experienced car accident attorney can assist you with investigating who is responsible for covering your damages. At the YMPK Law Group, our attorneys have the experience and knowledge that’s necessary to pursue a claim against Uber or Lyft. Contact us to discuss your case.

*Authoritative sources:

https://www.hg.org
https://www.compare.com
http://www.cpuc.ca.gov