Lyft and Uber Accident Claims in Cerritos: What You Need to Know
The revolution of the rideshare services like Uber and Lyft made it easier to commute around the city. It has become more and more popular through the years, with technological advances allowing people to hire a driver at the tap of a button. In order to qualify as a Lyft or Uber driver, rideshare companies set up a qualification process.
However, car accidents still remain a safety concern whether you are driving your own car or riding as a passenger in an Uber/Lyft. So, what happens if you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident? In most ways, Uber accidents and Lyft accidents are no different than regular auto accidents. Nonetheless, your rideshare accident claim may be more difficult. In this article, we’ll take a look at what you need to know about ridesharing companies and their policies surrounding Lyft and Uber accident claims if you were injured in a ridesharing accident in Cerritos, CA
What Makes Rideshare Accidents More Complex Than Other Car Accidents?
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft in California have been in a constant legislative fight over the classifications of employment titles for their drivers. Lyft and Uber drivers are currently regarded as independent contractors and not “employees.” This is a title that makes it difficult to file an Uber/Lyft accident claim as it protects Uber/Lyft from a great deal of liability in the event of a car accident in a rideshare vehicle.
However, that doesn’t mean they can escape liability so easily. That’s why they provide liability insurance for their drivers and passengers, even though it’s for certain specified periods. If an accident occurs outside of these periods, the Uber or Lyft driver may be liable for the injuries and damages sustained by the victim. With the complexities and issues with personal injury claims, it’s important that you reach out to an experienced lawyer to help determine who is liable for your injuries and protect your rights.
Whose Insurance Covers A Rideshare Accident?
If the rideshare driver is the cause of your accident, you can file a claim either with the driver’s personal auto insurance policy or with the Uber/Lyft liability coverage. Most of the time, the rideshare liability policy covers your claim.
Rideshare companies offer a liability policy that covers their drivers to a certain extent, depending on when the accident happens. California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) sets insurance minimums for Uber and Lyft drivers according to specific periods the accident occurs.
- Period 0: Rideshare companies don’t provide coverage when their drivers are not logged into the app during the time of the motor vehicle accident. Accident victims can file a car accident claim with the Uber or Lyft driver’s personal car insurance company.
- Period 1: This is the period when the driver is logged into the rideshare app but is yet to accept the ride. Again, the rideshare driver is required by California law to carry the minimum insurance. However, the rideshare company provides insurance to their drivers if their insurance can’t fully cover the insurance claim. Uber and Lyft offer $50,000 and $100,000 coverages per claimant and $25,000 in property damage.
- Period 2: When the Uber or Lyft driver has accepted the ride and is on the way to pick up the pick when the accident happens, the rideshare company can increase the liability coverage to $1 million to cover both the driver and passenger.
- Period 3: If a passenger is in the Uber or Lyft car, ending at a drop-off when the accident occurs, the company offers a liability of up to $1 million to cover both the driver and passenger.
Does the Victim Need to File a Rideshare Accident Injury Lawsuit?
While you don’t necessarily need to file a lawsuit, your decision will depend on the approach the insurance company will make to your personal injury claim. In some cases, the reason victims of rideshare accidents file a personal injury lawsuit is because the insurer of the rideshare company doesn’t make a fair settlement offer.
In the case you are unable to reach an agreement, you can then file a rideshare accident injury claim. However, if you are considering making a legal claim against Uber/Lyft or its driver, you should understand the rideshare accident lawsuit process. That’s why it is important to work with an experienced Lyft and Uber accident lawyer Cerritos to help you navigate the complicated legal process.
Involved in a Rideshare Accident in Cerritos, CA?
Just like in any auto accident case, the person who starts an accident injury claim must be able to prove liability and damages. But this can be challenging if the accident involves an Uber/Lyft driver. Seeking the services of a rideshare accident lawyer is a smart way to ensure your rights are protected. You will also improve your chances of receiving maximum compensation.
Instead of adding more stress to your plate and haggling with insurance companies who don’t have your best interest at heart, a rideshare lawyer at Heritage Accident Lawyers can help you seek the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you’ll not incur upfront charges and only pay us when we successfully obtain a settlement.
Want to learn more about our law firm and how our experienced lawyers protect your rights? Contact our law firm today and schedule a free consultation. Establish an attorney client relationship with us and let us get started on your case.