Rideshare Lawsuit Lawyer

The experienced attorneys at Alexander Shunnarah have helped clients across the country recover over $750 million.

You should be informed about the special considerations of a rideshare such as Uber/Lyft accident.

How an Uber/Lyft Accident Differs From Other Auto Accidents

Ridershare accidents differ from typical automobile accidents in several ways.  For instance, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft consider their drivers independent contractors (ie, not full employees), and so are more likely to deny claims. These services also use apps that draw the driver's attention away from the road.  With such a low bar for entry (little more than a license and autoinsurance is required to become an Uber or Lyft driver), training and experience for ridershare drivers is minimal at best. 

What About Uber or Lyft's Insurance?

Uber and Lyft do insure their drivers, but only under certain conditions. For example, whether they will insure the driver often depends on if a passenger was in the car at the time of the accident. Another factor both companies will consider is if the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger, with coverage being much lower if the driver and passenger have not been matched. Finally, both companies will only provide coverage if the driver's private insurance coverage is lower than the company policy.

Compensation from both the personal auto insurance and the rideshare company is much easier when an Uber or Lyft has a passenger in the car during the time of the accident.  Other situations will complicate matters.  Ridershare companies that note their drivers are in-between trips or "off the clock" at the time of an accident are more likely to deny claims.

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Breakdown of Uber's Insurance Policy

• The Uber app is off: Only the driver's private insurance will apply to the accident.
• The app is on and the driver is "available": A driver's insurance and Uber's contingent liability coverage can be accessed, including up to $100,000 for injuries ($50,000 per person) and $25,000 for property damage.
• The driver is picking up a passenger or dropping them off: Uber's commercial insurance coverage applies, which includes up to $1 million per accident for property damage and bodily injury, and another $1 million if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.

Breakdown of Lyft's Insurance Policy

• The Lyft app is off:Only the driver's private insurance will apply to the accident.
• The Lyft driver is waiting for a match:Only the driver's private insurance will apply to the accident; if their insurance company refuses to cover it, Lyft's policy ($50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, $25,000 for property damage) will apply.
• The driver is picking up a rider or dropping them off:Lyft's $1 million policy will apply to the accident.

What Damages Can I Claim?

• Medical Expenses
• Disability and Disfigurement
• Mental Anguish
• Lost Earnings
• Pain and Suffering