Uber/Lyft Rights When You’re Injured as a Passenger
In recent years, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have gained immense popularity as convenient alternatives to traditional taxis and public transportation. With just a few taps on a smartphone, you can easily request a ride and be picked up by a nearby driver within minutes. This revolution in transportation has provided countless individuals with affordable and accessible transportation options, transforming the way people travel in cities around the world.
While the convenience and accessibility of Uber and Lyft are undeniable, passengers must be aware of their rights and potential courses of action if they find themselves injured during a ride.
If you’re injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft in San Bernardino, our attorneys can help. When you meet with us in a free initial consultation, we can help you understand your rights as a passenger so that you can pursue maximum compensation.
Understanding the Responsibility of Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft have a specific kind of relationship with their drivers. They are considered “ride-sharing platforms” that connect passengers with drivers through their smartphone apps. The drivers are not employees of Uber or Lyft but are considered independent contractors. This means that they work for themselves and not directly for the companies.
When you get into an Uber or Lyft, the driver has a responsibility to take care of you and make sure you get to your destination safely. This is called the “duty of care.” The driver should follow traffic laws, drive carefully, and do everything they can to prevent accidents or injuries to their passengers.
The fact that Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors has some legal implications. Since they are not employees, the companies may not be held directly responsible for any accidents or injuries caused by their drivers unless they are currently en route to pick up a passenger or already have passengers in their vehicles.
If you’re injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, these ridesharing companies are liable, and you can collect compensation through their $1 million umbrella liability policies.
Uber and Lyft $1 Million Insurance Coverage
Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers and passengers during rides. These insurance policies are designed to protect both parties in case of accidents or injuries. The coverage typically includes liability insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, contingent collision, and comprehensive coverage.
Passengers are generally covered by Uber and Lyft insurance policies when they are involved in an accident during a ride. The coverage typically applies from entering the vehicle until you exit it. Once the driver has picked you up and until the ride is completed, you are typically covered by Uber or Lyft’s primary insurance policies, which provide higher coverage limits. If you are a passenger, then this is what applies to you!
Uber and Lyft both provide a $1 million insurance policy known as a “contingent liability policy” intended to protect passengers, drivers, and third parties in the event of an accident. The $1 million policy refers to the maximum coverage limit provided for each accident. This means that if multiple people are injured, or there is extensive property damage resulting from a single incident, the policy will provide coverage up to the specified amount.
The $1 million policy generally applies during what is known as “Period 3” in the ride process. Period 3 begins when a passenger enters the vehicle and lasts until the ride is completed or the passenger exits the vehicle.
Uber and Lyft’s insurance policy primarily focuses on liability coverage and covers medical expenses, property damage, and potential legal costs associated with such claims.
It’s important to note that coverage under the $1 million policy is subject to certain conditions. For example, the accident must occur during an active Uber or Lyft trip, and the driver must have the app turned on and be available for ride requests. Additionally, coverage may not apply if the passenger’s own actions caused the accident or if the passenger was engaged in illegal or prohibited activities.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against Uber or Lyft?
After a rideshare accident, you may want to focus your energy on your recovery. However, don’t wait too long to contact an attorney. The statute of limitations in California for filing a lawsuit related to personal injury claims, including those involving Uber or Lyft accidents, is generally two years. This means you only have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit seeking compensation.
Remember that waiting until the last minute to file a lawsuit can be risky, as gathering evidence, conducting investigations, and negotiating with insurance companies can be time-consuming. It’s generally recommended to initiate the legal process as soon as possible to have enough time to build a strong case and protect your rights.
Contact Our San Bernardino Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Today
Are you a victim of an uber or lyft accident? Don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Seek the assistance of a skilled uber and lyft accident attorney today to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’re looking for an uber and lyft accident lawyer you can count on, call a San Bernardino car accident attorney today at William D. Shapiro Law, Inc. We will work tirelessly to investigate the rideshare accident, determine liability, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Call (909) 890-1000 or complete our confidential contact form today.
William Shapiro has handled catastrophic injury/wrongful death actions for over 4 decades obtaining numerous seven and eight-figure verdicts and settlements. Honors include: 2022, 2016 and 2013 OCTLA “Top Gun” TLY; 2022 CAOC TLY Finalist; 2018 “Lifetime Achievement Award” Western State College of Law, 2021 & 2017 Best Lawyers, Lawyer of the Year; 2016 WSBCBA “TLY”; 2015 CAL-ABOTA “TLY”; 2014 “TLY” Consumer Attorneys of CAOIE; 2011 “Hall of Fame,” Western State College of Law; Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers; International Academy of Trial Lawyers; International Society of Barristers; Diplomat, American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA); National Board of Trial Advocacy; specialist in Trial Advocacy, State Bar of California; “Best Lawyers in America” and “Tier 1 Best Law Firms” U.S. News; AV Preeminent, Martindale-Hubbell; SuperLawyers; Past President of: San Bernardino/Riverside chapter ABOTA; San Bernardino County Bar Association; Consumer Attorneys of Inland Empire; The Joseph. B. Campbell American Inn of Court; Consumer Attorneys of California; IE ; National Sec of ABOTA, Adjunct professor, Western State College of Law. Learn more here.