When you're out on the
town, you have a few various modes of transportation to go from point A to
point B. You can walk, take a cab, or use Uber/Lyft. But what if you're in one
of those vehicles and get into an accident? Who is responsible? The answer may not
be as straightforward as you believe.
In the United States, Uber
and Lyft are two of the most popular ridesharing services. Both corporations
have been involved in several scandals and litigation in recent years. One of
the most notable was an accident involving an Uber driver and a pedestrian in
March 2018.
Elaine Herzberg, the
victim, was crossing the street in Tempe, Arizona, when an Uber driver fatally
struck her. The incident generated heated debate over ridesharing services and
their drivers' safety.
Uber and Lyft have been
involved in several high-profile accidents since their beginning. Passengers
and drivers have sued the ridesharing giants for injuries and damages, even
though the businesses have consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Uber has been named in
more than 100 lawsuits, while Lyft has been named in about 60. The entire value
of these lawsuits exceeds $1 billion, and many of them are still pending in the
courts. These cases have raised public awareness about the dangers of
ridesharing and the monetary damages given to plaintiffs.
Accidents involving Uber/Lyft
and Liability
Who is responsible if you
are harmed in an accident while using a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft? Is it the vehicle's driver, the ridesharing
firm, or both?
Both the driver and the
firm are usually held accountable. Companies that use ridesharing services must
have insurance coverage that includes $1 million in liability coverage per
event. It means that if you're hurt in a car accident, you could be able to sue
both the driver and the firm.
Liability of the Driver
The ridesharing market has
exploded in recent years, with companies like Uber and Lyft connecting drivers
and customers. While this has been a fantastic advancement for many, it also
carries its own set of hazards and obligations. Who is responsible for damages
in the event of an accident? Which is more important: the driver or the
company?
The topic of driver
liability in uber and Lyft accident claims is debatable. Both companies'
drivers are classified as independent contractors, absolving them of all
liability in the event of an accident. However, there have been few instances
where drivers have been sued for damages following an accident.
An uber driver was engaged
in an accident that resulted in the death of a six-year-old girl. The driver
was charged with wrongful death, and the case is still pending in court. Uber
might be held liable for damages if the driver is proven to be at fault.
However, in some
situations, the firms may be held accountable for damages. You might be
eligible to bring a lawsuit against Uber or Lyft if you get harmed in an
accident caused by one of its drivers.
Liability of the Company
Uber and Lyft both have a
$1 million liability insurance policy for their drivers. When a driver is transporting a passenger,
has the app open and is accessible to pick up a passenger, or is on the way to
pick up a passenger, this insurance coverage kicks in. This policy also applies
when a driver is engaged in an accident that is not their fault.
However, there are some
significant differences between the policies of the two companies. For example,
Uber's coverage only covers incidents while the driver is on their way to or
from a passenger. Lyft, on the other hand, has a policy that protects both
drivers and passengers for the duration of the ride.
Knowing which company's
coverage would apply if you're hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident is crucial. You
may also be eligible for compensation from any other parties involved in the
accident.
If you are injured in an
Uber or Lyft accident, you can submit a claim with the driver's insurance company
and Uber or Lyft. It's essential to keep in mind that these companies will
almost certainly try to dismiss your claim.
Personal Injury Lawyers
Garcia and Phan can help you.
It is critical to
understand your rights in the event of an accident, and speaking with an
attorney is the best way to do so. In the event of an accident, Garcia and
Phan Law Firm can
assist you in determining who is responsible and what steps you need to take to
preserve your rights. Call us at 714.586.8298
to schedule your free initial consultation.
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