The ride sharing services Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in San Diego over the past decade, providing a cost effective alternative to taxis and providing ride sharing services at competitive rates.
Along with more ride sharing services comes the risk of being injured if you are involved in an accident. While accidents can happen at any time regardless of whether an Uber or Lyft driver is involved, the aftermath of an Uber or Lyft related accident can be much more complicated, as the company itself and the driver could be found responsible for any injuries resulting from an accident.
If you have been injured in an accident involving an Uber or Lyft ride sharing vehicle, you may have the ability to file a personal injury lawsuit or file an insurance claim for injuries sustained in the accident. However, you must be able to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident, regardless of whether you were a driver or passenger of another vehicle involved, a passenger of the Uber or Lyft vehicle, or a pedestrian.
Uber’s Insurance Policy and Ride Sharing Accident Victims
Uber maintains an insurance policy that covers ride share driver-partners and passengers in certain circumstances. According to the website, Uber’s insurance policy provides at least $50,000 in injury liability coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage while a driver is online, logged into the app, and waiting for a ride request. Once the driver accepts a ride request, Uber’s insurance policy covers liability to third parties, injuries due to uninsured/underinsured motorists, and comprehensive coverage if the driver’s personal insurance has this coverage.
After the driver picks up the passenger, Uber’s insurance coverage increases to $1,000,000 minimum total liability coverage. With a rider in the vehicle, Uber’s insurance will cover the same things as when the driver is on the way to pick up the rider, only it will extend coverage to the rider. The rider is eligible for at least $1,000,000 for bodily injury and property damage where another party is at fault. There is also contingent collision and comprehensive coverage in the event that the Uber driver is at fault for the wreck.
The process for determining what your legal rights are in the event you or a loved one suffers injuries from an Uber or Lyft related ride sharing accident can be extremely difficult, but we’re here to help.
To discuss a possible ride sharing accident claim contact Gruenberg Law. San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys for over 25 years.