I Was Hit by an Uber… Now What?
July 24, 2019 | Accidents,Car Accidents,Uber/Lyft Accidents
Ridesharing is a popular form of transportation today, with companies Uber and Lyft leading the pack. However, like all vehicles, Uber and Lyft drivers are not exempt from getting into an accident. If an Uber or Lyft driver hit you while driving, you may suffer injuries and other damages you could collect compensation for in an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. A Seattle personal injury attorney can assist you with navigating Uber and Lyft’s complicated insurance policies.
Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies
Uber and Lyft both provide large insurance policies to help cover their drivers in case of an accident. Coverage depends on what stage of driving that the driver was in when the accident occurred.
- Period 0: During this stage, the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app. If you are in an accident with a driver during this period, you cannot claim compensation from these companies. Instead, you would file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- Period 1: During this stage, the driver is logged into the app but is not en route to a ride or giving anyone a ride. Uber and Lyft will provide liability coverage up to $50,000 per person injured, $100,000 total injury per accident, and $25,000 in property damage if the driver is at-fault for the accident.
- Period 2: During this stage, the driver is logged into the app and is driving to pick up his or her rider. If you suffer an accident with the driver during this stage, Uber and Lyft will provide coverage up to $1 million.
- Period 3: During this stage, the driver has a rider in his or her car. Uber and Lyft will provide coverage up to $1 million plus limited uninsured motorist coverage and property damage options.
Uber and Lyft will sometimes require you to submit a claim to the driver’s insurance company before filing a claim with their policy. The driver’s personal policy will likely deny the claim because the driver was engaging in business activity, allowing you to file with Uber or Lyft.
Liability in Uber and Lyft Accidents
While the insurance coverage structure that Uber and Lyft provide may seem straightforward, the companies have large legal teams at their disposal. You will need to prove to the insurance companies that the Uber or Lyft driver was responsible for your accident and that you suffered recoverable damages as a result. A rideshare accident attorney can help you establish this liability to the insurance companies and accurately calculate your damages.
What to Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident
The moments after an Uber or Lyft accident can be confusing and scary. However, they are crucial for successfully filing your claim. Follow these tips to collect the information and seek the help you need after your accident.
- Call 911 as soon as possible. You need police and medical attention to come to the scene. The reports you can collect from these entities will provide strong evidence in establishing your claim.
- Collect personal information. Speak to all of the parties involved in the accident and collect names, contact information, and insurance details. If there are any witnesses in the area, ask them for their contact information as well. Take note of the vehicles as well, including plate numbers, makes, and models.
- Document your injuries and damages. Take lots of pictures of the scene if you are able to, as well as any physical injuries and damage to your vehicle. After you seek medical attention, make sure to save any information you receive about your injuries.
If you suffer injuries in an Uber or Lyft accident in Washington, make sure to contact a Seattle rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible. Navigating the complex insurance policies of these major corporations can be challenging without legal assistance. Your attorney can help you establish liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and determine what types of damages you could collect.