Ridesharing has become a convenient alternative to some of the more expensive taxi services. With ridesharing, companies acquire individuals to drive for them, and through the use of a smartphone app, people can request rides from local drivers for a fee. Drivers can use the app as well to connect with potential passengers that may need transportation. The most significant difference between ridesharing and traditional taxi services is vehicle ownership. With ridesharing, the drivers use their personal vehicles to carry passengers while other taxi services have company cars supplied to drivers.
Ridesharing has become increasingly popular in Columbus, but the law has not been able to keep up with the trend. The main questions that have arisen over the past year are “Who can be held liable in a ridesharing accident,” and “What rights do rideshare accident victims have?”
Uber and Lyft Insurance Policies
Lyft and Uber are the two major ridesharing companies providing this service. There are a few differences between Uber and Lyft policies. Uber has three types of insurance policies:
- An Uber driver on a trip with a passenger is covered by their $1 million liability coverage and $1 million uninsured/underinsured coverage, which covers the other party if he or she is uninsured or underinsured.
- If an Uber driver is on route to pick up a passenger, they are covered by their own insurance policy, but Uber also has additional liability coverage for them, which consists of up to $50,000 per injury to a maximum total of $100,000.
- Personal auto insurance companies only cover Uber drivers who are off-duty and don’t have access to Uber passengers.
Lyft’s insurance policies are similar to Uber but slightly different. If personal insurance does not cover a driver, their drivers are covered under contingent liability coverage, but if the driver has accepted a ride request, they are covered by their $1 million main insurance policy.
Why Rideshare Accident Claims are Denied
There are two instances when the insurance company will deny a claim. It’s important to note that they can prohibit their policyholders from driving for hire; they will not provide them will insurance if they are. Uninsured drivers are therefore held liable for on- or off-duty accidents. Another factor to consider is the fact that most rideshare companies consider their drivers as independent contractors and not employees, keeping them liability-free.
What to Do if A Victim of a Rideshare Accident
If you believe you have a personal injury claim after having been involved in an Uber or Lyft car accident, be sure to speak with a qualified attorney. Doing so can help you bypass some of the rideshare company’s maneuvers to keep from appropriately compensating injured parties. Ohio Accident Attorneys has the resources to get you in contact with a personal injury attorney in your area. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.