Ridesharing services, Uber, and Lyft have become very popular in recent years. They’re convenient, affordable, and quite reliable. Most travelers have an easier experience with Uber and Lyft than with traditional taxi cabs. However, these options aren’t immune to human error, accidents, and related injuries. In fact, you have a higher risk of getting involved in accidents because most drivers don’t undergo traditional training or get qualified for the job.

So what do you do when you’re involved in Uber or Lyft rideshare accidents? Is there any legal option available to you and can you get compensation for your injuries or distress? This article explores all of these options:

Why Do Accidents Happen?

Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing companies claim they’re the bridge between the service provider and the customer. In essence, they’re not liable for the actions or mistakes of the drivers. Changes in laws and government pressure have ensured they’re more careful about who they accept and how they protect everyone’s interests. Despite all precautions, accidents and injuries can happen. They usually happen because:

• Driver fatigue
• Distraction
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Reckless driving
• Speeding

These are often the reasons why ridesharing vehicles become involved in accidents. If you’re hit by an Uber or Lyft driver or were in the ridesharing vehicle during an accident, it is possible to get some compensation for your injuries.

Can You Sue?

Yes, you can sue if you’re involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver. The circumstances of the accident will dictate how the process goes. Here’s a look at the options available:

• Offline – If the driver was offline, or wasn’t available through the company app during the accident, it becomes a personal responsibility. You can file a case against them and get compensation through their personal insurance.
• Online and Waiting for A Request – If the driver was online on the ridesharing app but waiting for a request during the accident, you can gain compensation through Uber or Lyft’s liability insurance. The compensation includes $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Online and Carrying a Passenger – If the driver was online and had engaged a passenger, the ride is covered by the company’s Primary Liability Insurance. This applies to rides that were en-route to pick up a passenger as well.

An experienced lawyer can help you determine which option is applicable to you and get the right compensation. If your damages exceed the insurance compensation availability, you might be able to gain additional compensation from your underinsured motorist policy. A lawyer will help you figure this out.

Know Passenger Rights

Passengers in Uber or Lyft rides can be seriously injured during an accident. There are some options available to you if you’re not directly involved in the accident. They are explained below:

• Claim Against the Other Driver – If the liability lies with the other driver, you can file a claim against their personal insurance to gain compensation. If that driver isn’t insured or is underinsured, both Uber and Lyft have $1 million policies accidents involving for uninsured/underinsured motorists.
• Claim Against the Rideshare Driver – If the liability lies with the rideshare driver; you can file a claim against the ridesharing company. Uber and Lyft have $1 million insurance policies for bodily injury.

Regardless of your involvement in such a situation, it is important to contact Uber accident lawyers immediately after the accident if possible. This ensures your interests are protected and you don’t make any deals due to lack of information. Lawyers will investigate the matter thoroughly by looking into factors like the driver’s license, past history, chauffeur license, etc. This will help them build a solid case and help you gain the best possible compensation.