It is no secret that ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have completely changed how society looks at transportation. This is despite taxicabs and other forms of transportation being readily available for years. This is because instead of calling a taxi cab company and waiting for the driver to arrive, or having to flag down a driver to hail a cab, you just need to grab your smartphone and request a ride. That does not mean, however, that all rides go on without a hitch. Indeed, rideshare drivers are at a higher risk of getting into accidents that can result in injuries to themselves, passengers, and those in other vehicles.
Establishing Your Case
If you were involved in a car accident while riding an Uber or Lyft, you bear the legal burden to prove your case to be successful in obtaining monetary compensation for harm suffered due to the crash. This can include payment for lost wages, medical bills, property damage, and other losses. If you find yourself needing to file a claim against Uber or Lyft and its insurance carrier, it is best to contact an experienced accident attorney.
Scope of Employment
Ride Sharing companies provide liability coverage for their drivers to cover bodily injury and property damage resulting from a car accident. Just because you see an Uber or Lyft logo on the car windshield, however, does not necessarily mean that the ride sharing company’s insurance automatically kicked in. In order for the insurance coverage to apply, the driver must have been working in the course and scope of his or her duties of driving for Uber or Lyft at the time of the accident. A skilled personal injury attorney can help obtain evidence to support your case and ensure this evidence remains preserved, such as the Uber or Lyft app and GPS data.
Establishing Fault
Once scope of employment is established, then the ride sharing company’s insurance coverage should apply as long as the driver is found to be at fault for the crash. Depending on the driver’s role at the time of the crash, the amount of insurance coverage may differ. These ride sharing companies offer up to $1 million in insurance coverage for their drivers, depending on the circumstances. An expert witness may be retained in your case depending on the serenity of the car accident and the damages. If the policy does not cover all of your damages, you may be able to file an uninsured/underinsured motorist claim with your own insurance carrier.
Theories of Recovery
An experienced personal injury attorney will conduct a detailed and thorough investigation into all facts regarding the car crash to explore all theories of recovery. This may include a standard negligence claim or could include negligent hiring or negligent supervision, as well as product liability claims. Not surprisingly, car accidents involving ride sharing companies such as Uber or Lyft can be much more complicated than your run-of-the-mill accident insurance claim. In order to recover all monetary compensation to which you are entitled under applicable law, it is best to consult with a skilled attorney.
We can Help You
Before you speak with the insurance company, contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at H&P Law. We will clearly explain your rights and obligations under Nevada law and fight for the best result possible. With offices in Las Vegas and Henderson, we are ready to speak with you and start working on your case. Contact us today.
