Ridesharing and using services like Uber and Lyft have become a frequent mode of transportation for many Wisconsin residents. Unfortunately, as the number of people using rideshares has increased, so has the number of car accidents involving ridesharing vehicles. If you were injured as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft ride, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Passenger Rights After a Rideshare Accident
When you choose a rideshare service, you trust that the vehicle you are in is well-maintained and that you will arrive at your destination safely. Of course, auto accidents can happen any time. When they do, you could find yourself needing both immediate and long-term medical care. You could also find yourself unable to work because of your injuries.
Whether the accident was the Uber or Lyft driver’s fault, or another driver’s fault, you should not have to pay your own medical expenses for injuries stemming from the accident. You may either be entitled to claim damages under the liability insurance policy provided by the ridesharing company or obtain compensation from the other (non-ridesharing) driver’s insurance policy, or both.
Ridesharing companies require their drivers to have personal auto insurance policies that comply with Wisconsin law, but they also provide up to $1 million of auto liability coverage designed to protect passengers. This means that if an Uber or Lyft driver is responsible for causing an accident that injures a passenger, the ridesharing company’s insurance policy should cover medical expenses and other costs related to the accident. Some ridesharing drivers also choose to purchase their own commercial liability insurance policies.
Steps to Take After an Injury Accident in an Uber or Lyft Ride
If you were involved in an accident during an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare service ride, you should take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention. Even if you don’t think you were seriously injured, it’s always a good idea to get checked out after an accident, as some injuries aren’t immediately apparent.
- Document the accident. Make accurate notes as soon as possible after the accident, documenting what happened. Be sure to also document the service you used, when and where you were picked up, and what your ultimate destination was.
- Don’t sign anything before talking to an attorney. While you may feel pressured to accept an insurance company settlement, doing so might not be in your best interest. Don’t sign off on a settlement or accept payment without talking to a personal injury attorney who can advise you on your legal rights.
Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, LLP Can Help
Accidents involving Uber, Lyft, or other ridesharing services can be complicated. It can be tough to determine liability, especially if there are multiple insurance policies that are potentially available. Insurance companies, wanting to limit their liability, may try to deny responsibility.
Hiring an experienced Uber or Lyft car accident attorney can help you avoid the frustration that can come from trying to negotiate and deal with insurance companies on your own. When you have a lawyer advocating for your rights, the insurance companies will know you are serious.
To learn more and to schedule a case evaluation, contact the skilled personal injury attorneys at Gingras, Cates & Wachs in Madison, Milwaukee, Waukesha or Eau Claire today.
