Hollis Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare Company Insurance Could Cover Your Losses

It might not be immediately clear if the insurance policies paid for by Uber or Lyft will apply in your accident case. This is because the facts of your accident will determine:

• If these policies are in play
• What the limits on those policies might be

The maximum benefits in your case could be much higher depending on whether or not the rideshare driver was actively transporting a passenger or not.

When the Driver Is Not Using the Rideshare App

If you are struck by a rideshare driver not actively using their Uber or Lyft app at the time of the crash, you are unlikely to be covered by the rideshare company’s insurance policy. Rideshare companies treat these drivers as if they were using their vehicle for personal reasons instead of coordinating rides with the rideshare company.

When the Driver is Using the App but Does Not Have a Passenger

The insurance policy for the rideshare company typically is in effect in cases where their driver was actively using the app but had not yet picked up a passenger. However, there are only limited benefits that apply under these circumstances. In these cases, Uber or Lyft would provide up to:

• $75,000 for bodily injuries per person
• $150,00 for bodily injuries per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

When the Driver Has a Passenger in the Vehicle

The highest level of coverage through the rideshare company’s policy comes when there is a paying passenger in the vehicle. As soon as a rideshare driver picks up a paying passenger, it shifts the policy into the highest tier of benefits. This highest tier applies until the moment the passenger leaves the vehicle.

Both Uber and Lyft provide up to $1.25 million in bodily injury and property damage coverage at this tier. This coverage could apply to other motorists struck by the rideshare driver or even the passenger inside the vehicle.

Pursuing a Claim Against the Driver Could Be An Option

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are not the only parties that should have insurance coverage for your personal injury accident. The rideshare driver should have their own insurance coverage, as well. This is important to understand, as you must generally exhaust the driver’s insurance limits before you can pursue benefits from Uber or Lyft.

Complications can arise when it comes to the insurance policies of the rideshare driver. The reality is that many people simply lack adequate liability coverage. Even drivers with the minimum amount of liability insurance might not have enough coverage to pay for all your expenses.

Another issue that can arise involves the type of policy the driver carries. Insurance companies require anyone serving as a rideshare driver to obtain additional coverage beyond their standard liability policy. Drivers without these riders might not be covered. Your attorney could advise you how to proceed in these situations.

How an Attorney Could Help After an Accident With a Rideshare Driver

From aggressively pursuing your case for benefits to advising you on what happens if an Uber driver hits your car, an attorney could be an invaluable asset to your Uber and Lyft rideshare accident case. Some of the ways an attorney serving Hollis could help include:

Investigating the Cause of the Crash

Before your attorney can file a lawsuit or send a demand letter, they must first carefully investigate the facts of your rideshare accident. This could start with the accident report and continue with interviews of witnesses.

Ultimately, the purpose of the investigation is to determine who was at fault and identify evidence that could establish their negligence.

Serve As Your Advocate

After a rideshare accident, dealing with the insurance company can be more than just a hassle. If you speak directly to the adjuster, you might say something that could accidentally put your recovery in jeopardy.

Insurance adjusters are skilled at twisting your words to appear as though you accept liability for your accident. Your attorney could deal directly with the insurance company by serving as your advocate, so you never have to.

Negotiate a Settlement

Given the extensive insurance coverage that is often common in these cases, it is not unusual for a rideshare accident to settle. Your attorney could negotiate with the insurance company and their attorneys to help ensure you get the best possible offer. Your attorney could also provide you with insight into whether or not the offer made by Uber or Lyft is reasonable.

Pursue a Lawsuit When Necessary

Not every accident with a rideshare driver will result in a negotiated settlement. There are times when a trial might be unavoidable. This is common when the driver lacks adequate insurance coverage to pay your claim. Your attorney could take on the challenging aspects of your case while you focus on healing from your injuries.

You Could Recover Compensation Following an Uber or Lyft Accident

Getting fair compensation for your injuries after a Uber and Lyft rideshare accident might be possible with our firm by your side. The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP is ready to fight for you. To learn more about how a Hollis lawyer could help, call 866-878-6774 for a free consultation.