Millions of Americans use rideshare applications like Uber and Lyft every day, including many here in Missouri. The drivers who work for these companies are regular people. They have no specialized training or skill behind the wheel. This means that they are just as likely as any other driver on the road to be involved in an accident.
In fact, because rideshare drivers are required to use the company’s app and navigation systems while driving, they could be more likely to be distracted and involved in an accident with a passenger in the vehicle.
What happens if you are hurt in an accident while you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft? Read more below to learn about how liability works in the case of a rideshare collision.
Uber and Lyft Policies Explained
Both Uber and Lyft provide insurance for their drivers on top of the driver’s personal auto insurance policy required by state law. Since the drivers’ insurance policies will sometimes deny insurance if the driver was using the vehicle for work, the company’s insurance coverage is essential. If the driver is working, the policy provided by Uber or Lyft should be available to compensate those injured in an accident.
If you are injured in an accident while riding as an Uber or Lyft passenger, you are protected by the companies’ commercial liability policy. Both Uber and Lyft have $1 million policies in place for injured passengers, as long as they are being transported to a destination and the driver’s app is active.
If the Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, you might be eligible to pursue an injury claim against the driver (and his or her personal insurance policy) as well as the rideshare company. If another driver caused the collision, you could pursue an injury claim against that person, and their auto insurance policy would likely cover the damages. You might also be eligible to recover from the rideshare company’s commercial policy.
Uber and Lyft also provide coverage for passengers of vehicles who are hit by underinsured or uninsured drivers. This means that if the passenger is injured when the Uber or Lyft vehicle is hit by a motorist who does not have insurance or does not carry enough coverage, the rideshare companies may provide insurance coverage to the passenger.
Steps to Take after an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you do not require emergency medical treatment, these are the steps you need to take following an Uber or Lyft accident:
- Check to see if everyone in the vehicle is safe.
- Contact the police and paramedics.
- Collect any accident information you can from the other driver and eyewitnesses.
- Visit a doctor right away for a thorough exam and treatment of any injuries.
Legal Help If You Are Severely Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Missouri
If you hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident in Missouri, you need to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney who can stand up against the large rideshare companies and their insurers. You need a knowledgeable legal team that knows how to hold the driver and the company accountable for compensation.
The St. Louis car accident lawyers at The Bruning Law Firm have spent over 35 years helping people across Missouri who have been hurt due to the negligent actions of other drivers. We have assisted clients in recovering millions of dollars for their injuries. Our case results have led to recognition in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and as among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in the country.
If you were an Uber or Lyft passenger and were injured in an accident, we want to help. Contact us by phone or online for a free consultation today.
